For_once_in_my_life Apr 2026

The song’s power comes from its heavy use of contrast in the lyrics.

This classic was written by Ron Miller and Orlando Murden for Motown's Stein & Van Stock publishing company. While it was recorded by dozens of artists (including Tony Bennett and Frank Sinatra), Stevie Wonder's 1968 uptempo version stands as the definitive, chart-topping masterpiece. for_once_in_my_life

Stevie pushes and pulls against the beat, heavily syncopating his delivery. The song’s power comes from its heavy use

It acknowledges a history of pain ("hurt", "defeat", "couldn't make it"). "couldn't make it").