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In Square Circle

by Stevie Wonder

Released: September 13, 1985

R&B, soul

musicOnOff editorial

Why This Album Matters

This album matters because its strongest editorial story is: Chart Success.

The Album

In Square Circle is the twentieth studio album by American singer-songwriter Stevie Wonder, released in 1985. This album features some memorable hits, including "Part-Time Lover", "Go Home", and "Overjoyed", the latter of which was initially written for 1979's 'Journey Through the Secret Life of Plants' but didn't make the final cut. "In Square Circle" broke new ground by intertwining new technology with traditional pop structures, displaying Wonder's unique blend of raw musicianship and pioneering production techniques.

Stories and details

Interesting Facts

Wonder utilised a range of synths, drum machines…

Wonder utilised a range of synths, drum machines, and samplers to create a modern sound that still had his unique character.

The term "in square circle" refers to attempting…

The term "in square circle" refers to attempting the impossible, which is an accurate depiction of Wonder's continued creativity and innovation throughout his career.

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Essential Tracks

Part-Time Lover

"Part-Time Lover", the lead single off the album, became the first-ever track to simultaneously top the pop, R&B, adult contemporary, and dance/disco charts.

Go Home

This album features some memorable hits, including "Part-Time Lover", "Go Home", and "Overjoyed", the latter of which was initially written for 1979's 'Journey Through the Secret Life of Plants' but didn't make the final cut.

Overjoyed

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Explore the Album

Stevie Wonder - In Square Circle

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Reception

The album topped the Billboard 200, the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums and was certified double platinum by RIAA. "Part-Time Lover", the lead single off the album, became the first-ever track to simultaneously top the pop, R&B, adult contemporary, and dance/disco charts. The album helped continue his domination of the charts during the '80s and further solidified his reputation as a guidepost of popular music.

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The Complete Album Story

"In Square Circle" broke new ground by intertwining new technology with traditional pop structures, displaying Wonder's unique blend of raw musicianship and pioneering production techniques. Wonder utilised a range of synths, drum machines, and samplers to create a modern sound that still had his unique character.

The term "in square circle" refers to attempting the impossible, which is an accurate depiction of Wonder's continued creativity and innovation throughout his career. The album helped continue his domination of the charts during the '80s and further solidified his reputation as a guidepost of popular music.