"Stevie at the Beach" is the fourth studio album by famed American musician Stevie Wonder, released on June 23, 1964, by Motown under the Tamla label. Despite the album's title suggesting a beach-themed record, it is not a concept album, and the tracks don't maintain a consistent summer or beach theme.
Recorded after the success of his hit "Fingertips", "Stevie at the Beach" failed to achieve major commercial success or make a significant impact compared to some of his earlier works. The album, somewhat contrasting Stevie Wonder's typical sound, largely contains pop-infused, doo-wop flavored songs of the era.
Two singles were released from the album. The first, "Hey Harmonica Man", was moderately successful, reaching number 29 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number 2 on the US R&B charts. However, the second single, the haunting "Beachstomp," didn't gain as much traction, failing to chart.
"Stevie at the Beach" is notable as it caught Stevie Wonder in transition. Even as he catered to the popular beach theme and the novelty of showcasing his harmonica skills, the album also hinted at the creative and musical evolution Wonder was going through. His future work veered towards more innovative and thematically deep music.
