Stevie Wonder AKA "Little Stevie Wonder" is an iconic American musician and songwriter known for his soulful voice, masterful keyboard and multi-instrumental skills. Born Stevland Hardaway Judkins on May 13, 1950, in Saginaw, Michigan, Stevie overcame the challenges of being born blind to become one of the most influential and best-selling musicians of all time. His career, which spans over six decades, includes numerous hit songs, groundbreaking albums, and multiple awards.
Stevie Wonder Career Highlights
1961 Signed with Motown's Tamla label at age 11, releasing his first album "The Jazz Soul of Little Stevie."
1963 Achieved his first major hit with "Fingertips (Part 2)," a live recording that topped the Billboard Hot 100.
1971 Released the critically acclaimed album "Where I’m Coming From," marking a shift towards more personal and socially conscious music.
1972 Released "Talking Book," featuring hits like "Superstition" and "You Are the Sunshine of My Life."
1973 Released "Innervisions," which addressed social issues and earned multiple Grammy Awards.
1976 Released "Songs in the Key of Life," widely regarded as one of the greatest albums in music history.
1980 Performed at the White House for President Jimmy Carter.
1984 Won an Academy Award for Best Original Song for "I Just Called to Say I Love You" from the film "The Woman in Red."
1996 Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
2009 Received the Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song.
2016 Honored with the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Barack Obama.
Stevie Wonder Band - Members and Collaborations
Primarily a solo artist, Stevie Wonder has collaborated with numerous musicians.
Notable collaborations include "Ebony and Ivory" with Paul McCartney and "Just Good Friends" with Michael Jackson.
Worked with artists like Prince, Elton John, Erykah Badu, and Busta Rhymes.
Participated in significant charitable events like "We Are the World."
Stevie Wonder Grammy Awards
Stevie Wonder has won 25 Grammy Awards, making him one of the most awarded male solo artists.
Notable awards include Album of the Year for "Innervisions," "Fulfillingness' First Finale," and "Songs in the Key of Life."
3 Most Famous Stevie Wonder Songs
- "Superstition"
- "I Just Called to Say I Love You"
- "Isn't She Lovely"
Stevie Wonder Scandal/Gossip/Trivia
Stevie Wonder's first stage name was "Little Stevie Wonder."
He was a close friend of the late musician Prince and was deeply affected by his passing.
Stevie has been a longtime advocate for civil rights and humanitarian causes.
Performed at the funeral of Michael Jackson.
Stevie recorded "Songs in the Key of Life," twice, the first time with analog equipment but, upon hearing the then new digital recording technology he re-recorded it!
Despite being blind, Stevie Wonder has often joked about his condition, demonstrating his positive outlook and sense of humor.
Listen, be careful, or me and Ray Charles will drive you home!
Stevie Wonder ratings
Songs: Sir Duke, Superstition, Higher Ground