From Juneteenth celebrations to summer barbecues, Stevie Wonder’s music is a staple in the soundtrack of our community. Earlier this month, we shared the story behind “Isn’t She Lovely” for Black Music Month. After Wonder’s recent Ghanaian citizenship ceremony on his 74th birthday last month, we couldn’t help but revisit another masterpiece from the seminal 1976 album “Songs In The Key Of Life” —a track with deep roots in Ghana.
The song “As” featured prominently in the classic 1999 film “The Best Man,” especially during a memorable flashback scene between Jordan (Nia Long) and Harper (Taye Diggs). While the music underscored a playfully romantic moment, its meaning goes far deeper than amorous sentiments: “As” is a timeless ode to the perennial spirit of the Black community and our global diaspora.
Through its rich imagery, soulful melodies, and lyrical depth, “As” represents Wonder’s connection to humanity and his unwavering faith in communal love—the song speaks to his deep commitment to the collective well-being of our people.
The Genesis in Ghana
Stevie Wonder’s experiences during his humanitarian tour in Ghana from 1974 to 1975 greatly influenced the creation of “As.” He has stated that his time there gave him a renewed perspective on life, nature, and humanity, which is reflected in the song’s lyrics. Lines like Until dear Mother Nature says her work is through (always) / Until the day that you are me and I am you (always) illustrate Wonder’s belief in the lasting power of love and connection.
While in Ghana, Wonder engaged in cultural exchanges, immersed himself in the regional environment and connected deeply with the people. He gained a new perspective on life, finding that love and nature are synonymous. “As” is a poetic statement that his love will also be sustained because it’s the work of God.
Deeper Meaning
Beyond its romantic overtones, “As” is a masterclass in poetic metaphor that delves into philosophical questions about love: Just as hate knows love’s the cure / You can rest your mind assure / That I’ll be loving you always.
The recording of “As” featured a collaboration with jazz legend Herbie Hancock on the Fender Rhodes electric piano and showcased Wonder’s well-known musicianship, as he handled the composition, lyrics, lead vocals, and all other instruments himself.
While the lyrics can easily be interpreted as a romantic serenade, “As” delves into deeper philosophical questions about the essence of true love: it asks for nothing; acceptance is the way we pay. Vivid metaphors like “until the rainbows burn the stars out in the sky” and “until the oceans cover every mountain high” are grand representations of Wonder’s belief in love’s unstoppable power — a love he expresses for his community when he sings us this reassurance:
We all know sometimes life’s hates and troubles
Can make you wish you were born in another time and space
But you can bet your lifetime that and twice it’s double
That God knew exactly where He wanted you to be placed
A Love Letter to Ghana and Beyond
On May 13, 2024, Wonder’s 74th birthday, a lifelong dream was realized when he received Ghanaian citizenship at a ceremony in Accra. Organized by the Ghana Tourism Authority and Beyond the Return, President Nana Akufo-Addo presided over the event at Jubilee House and personally handed Wonder his certificate.
In his speech, Wonder highlighted his 50-plus year desire to become a Ghanaian citizen, revealing it was part of his dream to unite people of African descent and the diaspora. He spoke about Ghana representing a spiritual home where he feels an intrinsic ancestral bond: “I’ve said for many years, the only way the world will come together is that we unite as a united people of the world,” Wonder said.
The iconic musician’s citizenship is a profound milestone, as President Nana Akufo-Addo tweeted, “[we] reaffirm our belief in the enduring spirit of Pan-Africanism…and the boundless potential of our continent and all its descendants.”
Ivy Prosper, a speaker and producer in Ghana, documented the event and described the vibrant atmosphere of traditional music and dance celebrating Wonder’s new Ghanaian identity and connection to his roots. The ceremony represented a full-circle moment for Wonder as it underscored how the poetic, metaphysical lyrics of “As” are indeed a love offering to the African diaspora.
As we celebrate Black Music Month, the song represents a love letter to Ghana and the global Black community. It’s a testament to music’s power to transcend boundaries, cultures, and even time itself: Today I know I’m living but tomorrow / Could make me the past, but that I mustn’t fear / For I’ll know deep in my mind / The love of me I’ve left behind / ‘Cause I’ll be loving you always.