The Meaning Behind The Song: Purple Rain Drops by Stevie Wonder
As a music critic, I am always intrigued by the stories behind the songs we love. Today, I want to dive into the meaning behind “Purple Rain Drops” by the legendary Stevie Wonder. This blues ballad, recorded in 1963, holds a special place in the hearts of many music enthusiasts.
Table of Contents
I first heard this song on a rainy afternoon, as I shuffled through my playlist looking for some soulful tunes to match the melancholic weather. The moment those opening lines, “Purple rain drops, spotted flowers,” filled my ears, I knew I had stumbled upon something extraordinary.
The lyrics of “Purple Rain Drops” evoke a sense of longing and infatuation. Stevie Wonder sings about daydreaming for hours, unable to forget someone he met. It’s a relatable feeling, one that captures the essence of young love and the profound impact it can have on us.
The song carries a dream-like quality, with Wonder describing funny and strange things he sees since meeting this person. It’s as if their presence has shifted his entire perspective, breathing life into his surroundings. The repetition of “What am I gonna do?” emphasizes the confusion and helplessness one can feel when consumed by love.
In the bridge, Wonder acknowledges the difficulty of expressing his emotions. He shares, “I just can’t tell you how I feel; I just can’t find the words.” Love, as he suggests, goes beyond mere nouns and verbs. It’s a sentiment that resonates with anyone who has ever struggled to articulate the depths of their affection.
In the second verse, Wonder brings a touch of spirituality to the song. He mentions hearing bells ring and angels sing, symbolizing the purity and transcendence of his love. These elements add a poetic layer to the narrative, elevating it beyond a simple love song.
While the lyrics of “Purple Rain Drops” carry their own significance, the history surrounding the song is equally intriguing. Released as the B-side for “Uptight (Everything’s Alright),” a #3 hit single, many consider the inclusion of this blues ballad to be a peculiar choice. However, its emotional depth and timeless appeal make it a standout track in its own right.
The track itself bears similarities to another song titled “Tears In Vain,” released the previous year. Both songs share the same producer and feature one of the few contributions from songwriter Ted Hull in the Motown catalog. Interestingly, there have been claims that Hull received credit for his contribution without actively participating in the creation of the song.
“Purple Rain Drops” could be seen as a turning point in Stevie Wonder’s career. It marked his evolution from “Little Stevie” to the blossoming creative force he would become, setting the stage for the groundbreaking music he would go on to create in the years to come.
In conclusion, “Purple Rain Drops” is a soulful masterpiece that explores the complexities of love and infatuation. Stevie Wonder’s powerful vocals and poignant lyrics transport listeners to an emotional landscape filled with longing and wonder. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering this song for the first time, its timeless charm is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Credits
- Produced By Clarence Paul
- Written By Ted Hull
- Label: Motown Records
- Release Date: 1965
- Cover Version: “Purple Raindrops” by The Flames (South Africa)
Tags
Pop, R&B, Motown, Soul, Soul Pop
