Stevie Wonder: Pioneer and Positive Influencer in Music
Stevie Wonder, born Stevland Hardaway Judkins on May 13, 1950, is a musical genius who has left an indelible mark on various musical genres. Known for his exceptional skills in Jazz, funk, soul, R&B, and pop, he has become a pioneer and positive influencer in the music world.
Blindness and Stevie Wonder’s Journey
Contrary to popular belief, Stevie Wonder was not born blind. In fact, he became blind shortly after birth due to retinopathy of prematurity. The affected growth of his eyes caused the retinas to detach, ultimately turning him blind.
Moving to Ghana and Contract with Motown
In 1975, Stevie Wonder moved to Ghana to work with disabled children after expressing frustration with the United States. However, he later changed his mind and signed a new contract with Motown, making him one of the highest-paid recording artists at the time.
Masterpieces and Milestones
The Key Of Life, Stevie Wonder’s masterpiece from that era, solidified his status as a music legend.
We Are The World and Remote Awarding
During the recording of “We Are The World,” Stevie Wonder joked about driving blind Ray Charles home after working together on the hit song. In a memorable moment, Grammy representatives created a satellite hook-up so Stevie Wonder could still be awarded remotely during an event.
Little Stevie Wonder’s Origins
Saginaw, Michigan, is where Stevie Wonder originally hailed from.
Accidents and Inspiration
In 1973, Stevie Wonder was involved in a car crash with a logging truck. He temporarily lost sense of smell and suffered from a brain contusion but managed to write and record the song “Contusion” following the accident.
Inspiring Young Minds
Stevie Wonder’s gift of hearing inspired him to become a musician. When he was young, he helped locate a mouse rummaging in a wastebasket by listening to its sound. The mouse later became the class’ mascot.
Coolio’s Sampling and Legacy
Stevie Wonder’s song “Pastime Paradise” has been sampled in Coolio’s hit “Gangsta’s Paradise.” Interestingly, it is the only Coolio track that doesn’t feature profanity – a requirement Stevie Wonder authorized before allowing the sampling.
Stevie Wonder’s Humor
Legendary pranks and skills in memorization have been associated with Stevie Wonder’s sense of humor. For instance, when he opened the Rolling Stones in 1972, he memorized the floor plans of the Four Seasons Hotels and later pranked people with that knowledge.
The Conspiracy Theories Surrounding Stevie Wonder’s Blindness
Some conspiracy theories allege that Stevie Wonder is not actually blind. Recent interactions between legendary basketball player Shaquille O’Neal and Stevie Wonder in an elevator have fueled more speculations about the musician’s ability to see.
Stevie Wonder’s Journey Through Music
In 1979, Stevie Wonder recorded an album titled “Stevie Wonder’s Journey Through the Secret Life of Plants,” which featured scented covers like flowers.
Contributions to Music Education
In 1981, Stevie Wonder wrote and sang a petition for the creation and recognition of Martin Luther King’s birthday.
Famous Collaborations
When Tracy Chapman debuted “Fast Car,” she credits Stevie Wonder for not being able to perform it.
Stevie Wonder’s Talents
“Superstition”, one of Stevie Wonder’s greatest hits, showcases his incredible talent as a composer, writer, singer, and instrumentalist.
Stevie Wonder’s Legacy
Stevie Wonder’s influence on music continues to be significant. He has won an astounding 25 Grammys and is recognized as one of the best musicians in history.
