About the song
Background
- A Labor of Love: This was the first single Stevie Wonder produced entirely on his own, marking a new era of creative control for the young prodigy.
- Inspiration from his Mother: The iconic refrain “signed, sealed, delivered, I’m yours” is credited to Wonder’s mother, Lula Mae Hardaway, who used the phrase often.
- Instant Success: The song shot to #1 on the R&B charts and #3 on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming one of his signature tunes.
Lyrics
The lyrics tell the story of a lover who has made mistakes and left his partner. Now he’s returned, pledging his whole self with unwavering commitment:
- Mistakes and Reconciliation: “I’ve done a lot of foolish things /that I really didn’t mean.” He shows vulnerability and a desire to make amends.
- Unwavering Commitment: The refrain “signed, sealed, delivered, I’m yours” uses the imagery of a binding contract to emphasize the seriousness of his promise.
- Joy and Celebration: The upbeat tone and repetitive chorus convey the joy his love brings him with lines like “Here I am baby / You’ve got the future in your hand”.
Themes
- Love and Devotion: At its heart, the song is about deep, committed love and the willingness to put in the work for a relationship.
- Second Chances: It suggests the possibility of forgiveness and finding your way back to someone you’ve wronged.
- Joy and Celebration: The infectious, celebratory energy conveys the happiness love can bring.
Legacy
“Signed, Sealed, Delivered I’m Yours” remains a timeless classic, frequently used in weddings and soundtracks. Its message of love and commitment continues to resonate across generations.
Here are some additional points of interest:
- Musicality: The catchy hook, Motown-influenced instrumentation, and Wonder’s soulful vocals make the song a joy to listen to.
- Covers: The song has been covered by numerous artists, from Peter Frampton to Blue and even Barack Obama sang it playfully during his campaign.
Video
Lyrics
Like a fool I went and stayed too longNow I’m wondering if your love’s still strongOo, baby, here I am, signed, sealed, delivered, I’m yours!
Then that time I went and said goodbyeNow I’m back and not ashamed to cryOo, baby, here I am, signed, sealed, delivered, I’m yours!
Here I am babySigned, sealed, delivered, I’m yours(You got my future in your hands)
Here I am babySigned, sealed, delivered, I’m yours(You got my future in your hands)
I’ve done a lot of foolish thingsThat I really didn’t mean, didn’t I?Seen a lot of things in this old worldWhen I touch them, they mean nothing, girlOo, baby, here I am, signed, sealed, delivered, I’m yours!Oowee baby, you set my soul on fireThat’s why I know you’re my heart’s only desire
Here I am babySigned, sealed, delivered, I’m yours(You got my future in your hands)
Here I am babySigned, sealed, delivered, I’m yours(You got my future in your hands)