A love so deep it defies the laws of physics
In short: Stevie Wonder’s 1977 masterpiece 'As' isn't just a ballad; it is a lyrical exercise in the impossible. To prove his devotion, the singer lists catastrophes and cosmic anomalies that would have to occur before his love ends—from dolphins flying to the Earth turning right to left.
Written for the album Songs in the Key of Life (1976) and released in October 1977, 'As' serves as a profound exploration of permanence. The lyrics construct a series of impossible conditions that must be met before the singer's love diminishes. These include rainbows burning out stars, oceans covering mountain tops, parrots living at sea, and even mathematical impossibilities like 8x8x8 equaling 4.
The song’s origins are rooted in Wonder's personal transformation. Following a serious car accident in August 1973, he briefly considered retiring from music and moved to Ghana for humanitarian work. This period of reflection gave him a new perspective on humanity and the world, which deeply influenced his subsequent musical output. While most interpret the song as a romantic serenade, others suggest it expresses a universal love for all of humanity or even a divine perspective speaking to creation.
The track has achieved legendary status, being voted Essence's greatest R&B song of all time in 2026, surpassing classics by Whitney Houston and Prince. Its cultural footprint expanded significantly through a high-profile cover by George Michael and Mary J. Blige in 1998. However, that collaboration faced unique hurdles; due to a legal controversy involving Michael, the record was blocked from a US release, despite becoming a top-10 hit across Europe.
Beyond its commercial success, 'As' has become a staple of cultural memory, appearing in films like The Best Man Holiday and being performed at major awards ceremonies. Its enduring legacy is cemented by its ability to shift between genres—from disco and R&B to jazz and experimental film soundtracks—while maintaining its core message of absolute, unwavering devotion.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: As (song)
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