Stevie Wonder - Workout Stevie Workout / Monkey Talk

Year Released: 1963
Label: Tamla (Motown)
Genre: R&B / Early Soul / Dance

Description:
Issued when Stevie was still in his early teens, “Workout Stevie Workout” captures the exuberant energy of his early Motown years. Riding the wave of dance craze singles that dominated the early ’60s, the track combines jumping sax riffs, handclaps, and Wonder’s youthful shout-singing — a raw, high-energy performance that made him a sensation on stage.

The B-side, “Monkey Talk,” continues in the same lively spirit, steeped in the R&B party style popularized by artists like Chubby Checker and The Isley Brothers. Though not a chart hit, the single was a fan favorite at live shows, especially after Stevie’s explosive debut performances on The Motortown Revue tours.

Today, it’s cherished by collectors for its historic place in Stevie’s evolution, showing the transition from child prodigy harmonica player to full-fledged Motown performer — already bursting with rhythm, charm, and soul.