Closing Act at BST Hyde Park: Stevie Wonder Wraps Up with a Powerful Soul Performance
Stevie Wonder brought the house down at the British Summer Time (BST) Hyde Park festival on Saturday night, closing the event with a mesmerising performance that left fans in awe. The legendary musician launched into a setlist that included "Sir Duke", "Isn't She Lovely", "I Just Called To Say I Love You", and a rousing finale of "Superstition" followed by "Always" and "Another Star".
The two-week run of sellout concerts at Hyde Park, featuring a mix of young pop stars and living legends, reached its peak with Wonder's headline show. The performance was a family affair, with Wonder's children joining him on stage, including his son Kailand Morris, who performed "I Can Only Be Me" and lamented the negative impact of social media on today's young generation.
British soul singer Corinne Bailey Rae joined Wonder for a heartfelt duet of "Everybody Is A Star", in tribute to the late funk legend Sly Stone. The supporting acts included notable artists from the jazz, soul, and R&B scenes, such as Ezra Collective, Thee Sacred Souls, Elmeine, Durand Bernarr, and Corinne Bailey Rae, providing vibrant warm-ups before Stevie's headline set.
Ezra Collective set the stage for Wonder with an energy-filled performance full of magical keys, sublime saxophone, and dazzling drumming. Stevie Wonder's band, consisting of four backing singers, four horns, two drummers, two keys players, and two guitarists, delivered a set that took the audience through a rollercoaster of emotions, ranging from soulful ballads to rousing dance tracks.
Wonder expressed deep gratitude and affection to the audience, indicating a heartfelt connection with UK fans. Reviews highlighted the exceptional atmosphere and energy, with many attendees describing the experience as a privilege and an unforgettable night in live music history. Stevie Wonder's words summed up the performance: "Are we good? Are we all having a good time? You damn well better be."
The tour, which celebrates Stevie Wonder’s legendary career and features a mix of his timeless hits and collaborations with contemporary artists, is part of his Love, Light and Song UK tour. Wonder wore a black beret, bejeweled sunglasses, and a bespoke white tunic embroidered with portraits of John Lennon and Marvin Gaye, adding to the iconic stage presence. The performance felt like a once-in-a-lifetime gig that fans will remember for years to come.
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At the upcoming Stevie Wonder's Love, Light & Song UK Tour, fans can expect a mix of pop-culture and entertainment, with music spanning from soul to funk, similar to his headline show at the British Summer Time (BST) Hyde Park festival in 2025. The concert will be remembered as a summer heatwave, featuring support from artists like Ezra Collective and Corinne Bailey Rae, contributing to the diversity and vibrancy of the event.
