A legendary musician and innovator who pioneered soul and R&B music, known for his iconic voice, masterful keyboard playing, and socially conscious songwriting.
Stevie Wonder, the legendary American singer-songwriter, musician, and record producer, is known for his unparalleled vocal range, innovative use of synthesizers, and iconic songs that have transcended generations. With a career spanning over five decades, Wonder has left an indelible mark on the music industry, earning him the reputation as one of the most influential and acclaimed musicians of the 20th century.
Born Stevland Hardaway Judkins on May 13, 1950, Wonder was born six weeks premature, which led to his retinas detaching, leaving him blind. Despite this physical limitation, Wonder's prodigious talent was evident from an early age. He began playing instruments at the age of four, including the harmonica, piano, and drums.
At the tender age of 11, Wonder signed with Motown's Tamla label, where he was given the professional name Little Stevie Wonder. His debut album, "The 12-Year-Old Genius," was released in 1962, featuring the hit single "Fingertips," which shot to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart, making Wonder the youngest solo artist to achieve this feat at just 13 years old.
The 1970s marked the beginning of Wonder's most creative and critically acclaimed period. With the release of "Music of My Mind" (1972) and "Talking Book" (1972), Wonder's music took a quantum leap, showcasing his innovative use of synthesizers and socially conscious lyrics. The iconic song "Superstition" from "Talking Book" is still widely regarded as one of the most distinctive and famous examples of the Hohner Clavinet keyboard.
Wonder's subsequent albums, "Innervisions" (1973), "Fulfillingness' First Finale" (1974), and "Songs in the Key of Life" (1976), all won the Grammy Award for Album of the Year, making him the only artist to have achieved this feat with three consecutive album releases. These albums cemented Wonder's status as a musical genius, tackling complex social issues and pushing the boundaries of R&B, funk, and soul music.
The 1980s marked a new era of commercial success and high-profile collaborations for Wonder. The iconic duet with Paul McCartney, "Ebony and Ivory" (1982), addressed racial harmony, while his partnership with Michael Jackson on "Just Good Friends" (1982) solidified his status as a crossover artist. Wonder's music during this period continued to tackle social issues, including apartheid and disability rights.
Wonder's influence extended beyond music, with his advocacy for Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday to become a national holiday in the United States. His tireless efforts, including a 1981 rally in Washington, D.C., played a significant role in the eventual passage of the holiday in 1983.
Throughout his illustrious career, Stevie Wonder has sold over 100 million records worldwide, making him one of the best-selling music artists of all time. He has won 25 Grammy Awards, the most won by a solo artist, and has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Wonder's music has inspired generations of artists across genres, from Prince to Bruno Mars, and continues to be a beacon of hope and social justice.
In conclusion, Stevie Wonder's remarkable journey is a testament to his boundless talent, innovative spirit, and unwavering commitment to social justice. As a true musical icon, Wonder's legacy will continue to inspire and uplift generations to come.
82 Years Old
Legendary musician and songwriter behind iconic bands and solo hits, shaping the course of popular music with enduring classics like "Yesterday" and "Hey Jude".
83 Years Old
Renowned beer critic and writer, known for his influential books on beer and whiskey, which have shaped the industry's understanding of craft brewing and spirits.
66 Years Old
A visionary musician who blended rock, R&B, and funk to create a unique sound, known for iconic hits like "Purple Rain" and "When Doves Cry".
78 Years Old
A flamboyant and iconic musician, known for his extravagant stage presence, hit songs like "Rocket Man" and "Crocodile Rock," and his work on Disney's "The Lion King" soundtrack.
92 Years Old
A legendary music producer, composer, and arranger who has worked with iconic artists like Michael Jackson, Frank Sinatra, and Miles Davis, creating timeless hits and soundtracks.
81 Years Old
Legendary vocalist and iconic diva of Motown, known for powerful voice, glamorous style, and hits like "I Will Survive" and "Ain't No Mountain High Enough".
75 Years Old
A legendary musician and entertainer, known for his soulful voice, iconic hits like "All Night Long" and "Hello", and his enduring impact on the music industry.
94 Years Old
A legendary musician who pioneered soul music, blending gospel, blues, and jazz to create a unique sound, and is iconic for his smooth, soulful voice and hit songs like "What'd I Say" and "Georgia on My Mind".
