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“Part-Time Lover” is a popular hit by American singer, songwriter, and musician Stevie Wonder, released in August 1985 with the instrumental version as a B-side as part of his album In Square Circle. This song became one of his most successful singles during the 1980s and showcases his versatility as an artist, combining elements of pop, R&B, and funk with a catchy, danceable rhythm.

Stevie Wonder - Part-Time Lover - Single Cover - Video

“Part-Time Lover” was the lead single from Stevie Wonder’s In Square Circle album, which came out in September 1985. The song reflects the continuing evolution of his sound, as he embraced more electronic instrumentation and contemporary production techniques, a shift from the more organic, live instrumentation that characterized his work in the 1970s.

The song was a commercial success, topping several charts. It reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming Wonder’s final No. 1 hit in the U.S. It also topped the R&B, Dance, and Adult Contemporary charts, making Stevie Wonder the first artist in history to achieve this feat. “Part-Time Lover” was also very successful internationally, charting in multiple countries and solidifying Stevie Wonder’s global appeal in the mid-1980s. Here’s a breakdown of its international success. The song hit No. 1 in several other countries, including Canada and Spain, and charted in the Top 5 in numerous countries, including No. 3 in both Australia and the UK.

Stevie Wonder - Part Time Lover

The song tells the story of an affair where both people involved are cheating on their partners, making them “part-time lovers.” They use secret signals and deception to keep their relationship hidden. Despite the serious theme of infidelity, the song has an upbeat, playful tone. Musically, “Part-Time Lover” features prominent use of synthesizers and drum machines, reflecting Stevie Wonder’s embrace of digital technology during the 1980s. The song has a strong rhythm, catchy melodies, and smooth vocal harmonies, including background vocals from Luther Vandross. The blend of pop, funk, and R&B elements helped the song appeal to a wide audience.

“Part-Time Lover” is remembered as one of Stevie Wonder’s signature songs from the 1980s and remains popular for its catchy tune and fun energy, despite its subject matter. It showcased his ability to adapt to the evolving sound of the decade while maintaining his soulful, expressive style.

Stevie Wonder – Part-Time Lover – Official Music Video