Introduction
“My Cherie Amour” is a timeless classic written and recorded by Stevie Wonder in 1969. The song has been covered by various artists and has become a staple in popular culture. However, beyond its catchy tune and soulful melody, the song has hidden meanings and messages that may have gone unnoticed by many. In this article, we will explore the meaning behind the lyrics of “My Cherie Amour” and uncover the story behind this beloved song.
The Inspiration for the Song
The inspiration for “My Cherie Amour” came from Stevie Wonder’s personal life. The song was dedicated to his then-girlfriend, Syreeta Wright, whom he had met while recording his album “For Once in My Life” in 1968. According to Syreeta, Stevie was working on the melody for the song while they were sitting together on a bus ride. Syreeta noticed that Stevie kept repeating the phrase “My Cherie Amour” and immediately realized that it would make a great song title. She suggested he add some French lyrics to the song and helped him write the lyrics in the chorus.
The Lyrics of “My Cherie Amour”
The lyrics of “My Cherie Amour” are simple yet poetic. They describe the love and affection Stevie had for his girlfriend at that time. The song starts with the words “My Cherie Amour, lovely as a summer day” which sets the tone for the rest of the song. It’s a beautiful, sunny day, and Stevie is comparing his love for Syreeta to the beauty of a summer’s day.
The chorus of the song is where the meaning of “My Cherie Amour” is most evident. The lyrics “My Cherie Amour, pretty little one that I adore, you’re the only one my heart beats for” express Stevie’s love and admiration for Syreeta. He calls her “pretty little one” which is a term of endearment used for a loved one. He also professes that she is the only one his heart beats for, emphasizing the depth of his love for her.
The second verse of the song continues the theme of love and devotion. The lyrics “The rain may fall, and all the flowers may fade, but you’re here with me in my heart” reflect Stevie’s commitment to Syreeta. He acknowledges that life can be difficult and unpredictable, but he finds solace in the fact that they have each other.
The Music of “My Cherie Amour”
The music of “My Cherie Amour” is as important as its lyrics. The song has a catchy melody that complements the lyrics perfectly. The use of brass instruments such as the trumpet and the trombone adds a romantic touch to the song. The rhythm of the song is slow and steady, which creates a relaxed and soothing atmosphere. The harmonica solo in the middle of the song gives it a distinct bluesy feel.
One interesting fact about the music of “My Cherie Amour” is that Stevie Wonder played almost all the instruments on the song himself. He was already known for his ability to play multiple instruments, but “My Cherie Amour” showcased his talents like never before. He played the drums, piano, harmonica, and even the bell tree on the song, among other instruments. This not only highlighted Stevie Wonder’s musical prowess but also added a unique touch to the song.
The Significance of “My Cherie Amour”
“My Cherie Amour” has significant cultural and social value. The song was released during the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s when racial tensions were high. The fact that a Black artist like Stevie Wonder was able to create such a beautiful love song to a white woman was revolutionary at the time. It showed that love transcends race and that people of different ethnicities can come together and create something beautiful.
The song has also been highly influential in the music industry. It has been covered by numerous artists, including Michael Jackson, who recorded a version of the song in 1984. The song has been featured in various films and television shows, including “The Cosby Show” and “Pretty Little Liars.”
Conclusion
In conclusion, “My Cherie Amour” is more than just a love song. It’s a representation of the love and devotion Stevie Wonder had for his girlfriend, Syreeta Wright, at the time he wrote the song. The lyrics, music, and significance of the song have made it a timeless classic that continues to be loved and appreciated by people of all ages and ethnicities. “My Cherie Amour” is a reminder that love knows no boundaries and that music has the power to bring people together.
