About the song
“I Just Called to Say I Love You,” a quintessential ballad by Stevie Wonder, emerged as a global phenomenon upon its release. Written, produced, and performed by the iconic R&B singer, the song was the lead single from the 1984 soundtrack album *The Woman in Red*. Its heartwarming simplicity and universal message have cemented it as Wonder’s best-selling single, topping an unprecedented 19 charts worldwide.
Released on October 13, 1984, “I Just Called to Say I Love You” quickly climbed to the top of the Billboard Hot 100, where it remained for three consecutive weeks. It also achieved the number-one spot on the R&B and Adult Contemporary charts for the same period, underscoring its broad appeal and commercial success. This track stands out as Wonder’s only solo UK number-one hit, dominating the charts there for six weeks and earning the title of Motown Records’ biggest-selling single in the UK—a distinction it held well into 2018.
The song’s lyrics are a touching testament to the power of love and affection. Rather than tying the message to a specific holiday or event, Wonder’s lyrics capture the essence of spontaneous, heartfelt communication. The premise revolves around the simplicity of an unexpected phone call to express love, irrespective of any special occasion. As Cash Box aptly described, the song is “a tender and romantic love letter” that radiates optimism and genuine emotion.
Despite its success, “I Just Called to Say I Love You” was not without controversy. There was a legal dispute involving Wonder, his former writing partner Lee Garrett, and Lloyd Chiate over the song’s authorship. Ultimately, a jury sided with Wonder, affirming his role as the song’s primary creator.
The accompanying music video, filmed during a concert in Rotterdam Ahoy, Netherlands, captures Wonder’s engaging performance. In the video, he is seen singing into a telephone receiver while seated at a piano, creating an intimate and personal atmosphere. By the song’s end, both Wonder and his audience are fully immersed, swaying together to the infectious melody. This visual representation further enhances the song’s emotional impact and enduring charm.
“I Just Called to Say I Love You” not only won a Golden Globe and an Academy Award for Best Original Song but also received three Grammy nominations, including Best Male Pop Vocal Performance and Song of the Year. Its blend of heartfelt lyrics, soulful melody, and Wonder’s masterful performance ensures that the song remains a beloved classic, celebrating love and connection in the most sincere and timeless way.
VIdeo
Lyrics
No New Year’s Day to celebrate
No chocolate covered candy hearts to give away
No first of spring, no song to sing
In fact, here’s just another ordinary day
No April rain, no flowers bloom
No wedding Saturday within the month of June
But what it is, is something true
Made up of these three words that I must say to you
I just called to say I love you
I just called to say how much I care
I just called to say I love you
And I mean it from the bottom of my heart
No summer’s high, no warm July
No harvest moon to light one tender August night
No autumn breeze, no falling leaves
Not even time for birds to fly to southern skies
No Libra sun, no Halloween
No giving thanks to all the Christmas joy you bring
But what it is, though old, so new
To fill your heart like no three words could ever do
I just called to say I love you
I just called to say how much I care, I do
I just called to say I love you
And I mean it from the bottom of my heart
I just called to say I love you
I just called to say how much I care, I do
I just called to say I love you
And I mean it from the bottom of my heart
Of my heart
Of my heart (baby, of my heart)