Don't Drive Drunk
Stevie Wonder · The Woman in Red [original soundtrack] [1984]
That he's played off like nothing's wrong
'Til he comes home from work early
Just to find the girl is gone
Oh but he gets into the cupboard
Picks out that bottle of gin
Drinks like there's no tomorrow
And decides to take a spin
No don't drive drunk
Don't drive drunk, no
Don't drive drunk
Mothers Against Drunk Drivers are mad
Teenager at a live party
Says, "give me one for the road"
But he's already so inebriated
If you lit a smoke he'd explode
But bartender says, "I don't think so"
Young one says, "I can deal"
Staggering out he says, "check you all later"
But I really don't think he will
No don't drive drunk
Don't drive drunk, no
Don't drive drunk
Mothers Against Drunk Drivers are mad
[Repeat]
[Background]
Don't drive drunk
d-d-d don't drive drunk
Don't drive drunk
Hicup
[repeat]
Boy out with girl on their first date
Gets pulled over by the law
Officer says, "hey can't you drive straight
Or have you been drinking alcohol?"
Boy says, "man are you crazy?"
Cop says, "hey then walk this line"
But results from the breathalizer
Proves he's charged with D.U.I.
No don't drive drunk
Don't drive drunk, no
Don't drive drunk
Mothers Against Drunk Drivers are mad
[Repeat]
[Background]
Don't drive drunk
d-d-d don't drive drunk
Don't drive drunk
Hicup
[repeat]
Don't Drive Drunk
Stevie Wonder's "Don't Drive Drunk" stands as a poignant social commentary delivered with his signature warmth and rhythmic sophistication. Recorded for the 1984 film "The Woman in Red," the track blends funk, soul, and R&B elements to address the dangers of impaired driving through a narrative of a couple's near-miss. Wonder's lyrics paint a vivid picture of reckless behavior while maintaining an emotional core that emphasizes responsibility and love. The song showcases his ability to weave complex musical arrangements with accessible melodies, reinforcing his status as a master of the genre during the early 1980s. As part of the film's soundtrack, it serves as both entertainment and a timely reminder of safety, reflecting the era's growing awareness of traffic issues.