Discovering a Detroit Gem: Stevie Wonder’s “My Eyes Don’t Cry No More”

In the vast catalog of Stevie Wonder’s legendary music, some tracks are celebrated globally, while others hold a special place in the hearts of specific communities. Today, I stumbled upon a song that is not only a testament to Stevie’s genius but also a massive hit in Detroit—“My Eyes Don’t Cry No More My Eyes Don't Cry.”

It's classic Stevie, but in my opinion, it doesn’t overtly scream number one song or even an obvious choice for a single. So I was super surprised to discover its deep relevance to Black Detroit culture. This discovery came about just today, as I was diving into one of my favorite reads, Adam White’s Motown blog, West Grand, posted today, August 9th, titled A Motown Timeline: 1987. That’s where I learned that “My Eyes Don’t Cry No More” was a 1987 track that didn’t make it onto Stevie's Characters album but was included as a bonus on the CD and cassette editions.

As someone who’s a fool for B-sides and rarities, I just had to Google it. What I found was a rich history of how this song became a cultural staple in Detroit.

The Detroit Hustle Connection

As I explored more about this song, I quickly realized how deeply ingrained it is in Detroit’s cultural fabric. From weddings to family reunions, and even boat rides down the Detroit River, “My Eyes Don’t Cry No More” has been the soundtrack to countless memories. In fact, many Detroiters fondly remember this song playing on the famous Boblo boat, where people would break into the Hustle as they sailed along the river.

One commenter on YouTube perfectly captured this sentiment: “For those wondering why it’s a Detroit thing... If you’re from the Detroit area, when this song came out, the DJ on the Boblo boat would play this and Detroiters would hustle to it while sailing down the Detroit river. Very common at weddings after that. Best song to hustle to, and get people onto a dance floor!”

A Detroit Staple

What’s fascinating about this song is how it became a staple at every significant event in Detroit. Whether it’s a wedding, a family reunion, or a community gathering, you can bet that “My Eyes Don’t Cry No More” will get everyone onto the dance floor. For many, it’s more than just a song; it’s a signal to start moving, to feel the rhythm, and to connect with others through dance.

One user commented, “Michigan culture at its finest. Literally EVERY wedding I’ve been to, growing up in metro Detroit, this was a staple dance. If you didn’t run to the floor to dance to this, you were the weird guest lol.”

This unique connection to the Hustle even extends beyond Detroit. Some Michiganders have shared experiences of moving to other states, only to find that no one else knew what to do when this song played. It’s a distinct cultural marker, a badge of honor that says, “I’m from Detroit.”

The Broader Impact

While “My Eyes Don’t Cry No More” might be a Detroit thing, its impact isn’t limited to just one city. People from other regions have shared their own experiences with the song, from Chicago to California. However, what remains clear is that Detroit is the epicenter of this track’s influence. It’s a song that brings people together, evoking a sense of community and shared history.

One commenter shared, “I didn’t know it was a Detroit thing. I thought everyone did the Hustle to Stevie. As soon as this song started playing, we would run to the dance floor. Fun times.”

A Timeless Groove

Part of the magic of this song is its timeless groove. It’s a seven-minute track that you can easily get lost in, a melody that compels you to move without even realizing how much time has passed. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Stevie Wonder or someone just discovering his deep cuts, “My Eyes Don’t Cry No More” is a reminder of his unmatched ability to create music that transcends generations and regions.

As one fan poetically put it, “You’d really have no idea this song was seven minutes unless you looked. You just sorta get lost in that thang.”

A Detroit Experience to Remember

For me, discovering this song has been like uncovering a hidden treasure. It’s a track with deep roots in Detroit, a piece of music that’s more than just a song—it’s a part of the city’s identity. I can only imagine what it would be like to experience it being played in Detroit, seeing the whole room move to the rhythm of the Hustle. Hopefully, that will happen on my next visit.

Have you ever danced to “My Eyes Don’t Cry No More”? What’s your favorite memory tied to this Stevie Wonder classic? Let’s share the love for this Detroit gem https://youtu.be/e0jQRMLaOKI?si=-a3EWGXHlz25xM4s in the comments below!