Believe it or not, when people talk about the biggest hits of the last decade, they usually skip right over the stuff written for animated movies. That's a mistake. Especially when you realize that Faith by Stevie Wonder isn't just a catchy tune from a kids' film—it's actually the moment a living legend decided to prove he still had that 1970s "Superstition" era magic in his bones.
It feels like a lifetime ago, but back in 2016, the movie Sing hit theaters. It was everywhere. But the real story wasn't the talking koala; it was the fact that Stevie Wonder, a man with 25 Grammys, teamed up with Ariana Grande. On paper? It sounds like a marketing gimmick. In reality? It’s a soulful, high-energy powerhouse that managed to bridge a fifty-year age gap between performers without breaking a sweat.
Stevie doesn't just show up for anything. He’s picky. So, why this?
Why Faith by Stevie Wonder Works When It Shouldn't
The song is basically a masterclass in upbeat soul. Produced by Ryan Tedder and Benny Blanco, it carries this relentless, driving rhythm that feels like it belongs on a Motown record from 1966, yet it’s polished enough for 2026 radio. Stevie’s vocals are shockingly crisp. You’d think after decades of touring, his range might have dipped, but no. He’s hitting those gritty, rhythmic growls that made Songs in the Key of Life a masterpiece.
Then you have Ariana.
At the time, she was the reigning queen of pop. Putting her next to Stevie Wonder is a bold move. Most singers would be terrified to stand at a mic next to a guy who literally shaped the DNA of modern music. But she held her own. The chemistry is weirdly perfect because they both share that gospel-inflected vocal agility. They aren't just singing "at" each other; they’re competing in the best way possible. It's a vocal duel.
Honestly, the track works because it doesn't try to be "cool." It’s unapologetically joyful. In an era where pop music was getting moodier and more "vibey," Faith by Stevie Wonder arrived like a shot of espresso. It’s loud. It’s brassy. It’s got that signature Stevie harmonica solo that makes you want to drive a bit faster than the speed limit.
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The Golden Globe Connection
People forget this song was actually nominated for a Golden Globe for Best Original Song. It lost to "City of Stars" from La La Land, which, sure, was a juggernaut. But "Faith" has arguably had a longer shelf life in the "songs that actually make you feel good" category.
Ryan Tedder has talked about the process of writing for Stevie. It's intimidating. You’re writing for a guy who wrote "Sir Duke." Tedder mentioned in several interviews how they wanted to capture that "classic" feel without it sounding like a museum piece. They succeeded because they focused on the groove first. If the bassline doesn't make you nod your head within three seconds, it isn't a Stevie Wonder song. This one hits the mark immediately.
Breaking Down the Sound: What’s Actually Happening?
If you strip away the flashy movie visuals, you’re left with a very sophisticated arrangement. The song relies heavily on a "stomp-and-clap" percussion style. It’s primitive but effective.
- The Horn Section: These aren't synthesized. They are real, biting brass hits that punctuate the end of every vocal line.
- The Piano: You can hear that rhythmic, percussive piano playing that Stevie pioneered. It’s more about the "chop" of the chords than the melody itself.
- The Lyrics: "I got faith in you, baby." Simple? Yes. But coming from Stevie, it carries weight. It’s about resilience. It’s about seeing the potential in someone else.
It’s interesting to note that this was Stevie’s first contribution to a film soundtrack in years. He’s done the soundtrack thing before—most notably with The Woman in Red which gave us "I Just Called to Say I Love You"—but "Faith" feels more connected to his soul roots than his 80s synth-pop era.
The Cultural Impact of a "Movie Song"
We live in a world where "Baby Shark" exists, so it’s easy to dismiss songs from animated features as fluff. But look at the numbers. The music video for Faith by Stevie Wonder has hundreds of millions of views. It introduced a whole generation of Gen Z and Alpha kids to Stevie’s voice.
That’s the secret sauce.
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If you’re a parent watching Sing with your kid, you’re hearing a voice you grew up with. If you’re the kid, you’re hearing the guy who sings with Ariana Grande. It’s a brilliant piece of cross-generational branding that doesn't feel cynical. It feels like a celebration.
Misconceptions About the Recording
Some folks think they recorded this in separate booths on opposite sides of the country. That's a common rumor with big collaborations. While they did some work independently, the energy of the track suggests a much closer collaboration. Stevie is known for being hands-on. He doesn't just "mail it in." He’s a perfectionist.
Ariana has been vocal about how much of a "peak life experience" this was. She’s a massive Stevie fan. You can hear it in her phrasing; she’s mimicking some of his classic vocal runs, paying homage while staying true to her own "Dangerous Woman" era style.
What This Song Tells Us About Stevie's Legacy
Stevie Wonder is in his 70s now. He doesn't have to release anything. He doesn't have to compete with the Weeknd or Dua Lipa. But Faith by Stevie Wonder proves that soul music is timeless. It doesn't age out.
There’s a specific kind of "Stevie Chord" (usually a dominant 7th with some funky extensions) that shows up in this track. It’s a signature. It’s like a fingerprint. When you hear it, your brain recognizes it as quality. That’s why the song stayed on the charts. That’s why it’s still played at weddings, sporting events, and graduation parties ten years later.
It’s also worth noting the lyrical theme. Faith. Not necessarily religious faith, though Stevie has plenty of that, but faith in human potential. In a world that often feels like it's falling apart, having a blind man sing about "seeing" the greatness in you is a powerful metaphor that shouldn't be ignored.
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How to Get the Most Out of This Track
If you really want to appreciate the song, stop listening to it through your phone speakers.
- Find a high-quality version: Use a lossless streaming service or the actual CD (if you still have a player). The low-end bass frequencies are what drive the song, and you lose those on cheap earbuds.
- Listen for the Harmonica: Around the two-minute mark, Stevie lets loose. It’s a short solo, but his technique—the way he bends notes—is unmatched. No one else sounds like that.
- Watch the Music Video: It’s simple, but seeing Stevie walk down the street and sit at the piano while Ariana joins him is genuine. There’s a scene where he’s just grinning at the keys, and you realize he’s having the time of his life.
Actionable Takeaways for Music Fans
Don't just let this be a song that plays in the background of a grocery store. Use it as a gateway.
If you like the energy of Faith by Stevie Wonder, you need to go back and listen to his 1972 album Talking Book. You’ll hear where this sound started. If you’re an Ariana fan who only knows her "Positions" or "Eternal Sunshine" work, listen to her live performances of Stevie covers. She’s been doing them for years.
Ultimately, "Faith" is a reminder that talent doesn't have an expiration date. It’s a bridge between the Motown past and the Pop future. Whether you’re five years old or seventy-five, the groove is undeniable. It’s a rare moment of pure, unadulterated musical optimism that we probably need more of right now.
Go back and give it a serious listen. Ignore the cartoon animals for a second and just listen to the arrangement. It’s a masterclass in how to write a hit that actually has a soul.