Singer Stevie Wonder performs despite his sorrowful feelings
Stevie Wonder Maintains Activism at 75: Passionate Singer-Songwriter Continues to Inspire
Stevie Wonder seems to have it all, with a plethora of accolades, influence on millions, and a continually overflowing heart. He's a 75-year-old powerhouse with 22 Grammys, an Oscar, and nine children—but his compassion and commitment to justice persist. After releasing the track "Can We Fix Our Nation's Broken Heart," Wonder plainly shows no signs of slowing down.
With pain pouring into his lyrics about the struggles faced by Americans - addressing poverty, injustice, and division - this soul and R&B icon refuses to stay silent. Concerned with the wellbeing of his fellow humans, the legendary artist has pledged to continue using his platform.
A Struggling Yet Tenacious Beginning
Born Stevland Hardaway Judkins Morris in 1950 in Saginaw, Michigan, his life began marked by hardship. Surviving only thanks to an incubator, the young boy eventually lost his sight, leading him to immerse himself in the world of music. He discovered his gift at church, teaching himself instruments, such as the harmonica, drums, and piano, in a relentless pursuit of his passion. Motown Records soon recognized his talent and catapulted his career—giving him the apt pseudonym, Stevie Wonder.
In 1962, he released his first album, a collection of Ray Charles covers, followed by an album of original compositions. His 1963 live album, "The Twelve-Year-Old Genius," became his first US number-one and Motor City's first as well. For nearly a decade, Wonder remained closely tied to the label.
Finding Freedom: Artistic and Political
Growing older, Wonder's aspiration for artistic freedom expanded, transforming his sound in the 1970s. Spearheading the new wave of soul and funk, he incorporated avant-garde electronic instruments and themes into his music. This period saw the birth of classics like "Superstition," "You Are the Sunshine of My Life," and "Sir Duke."
His independence culminated in the formation of Black Bull Music, allowing him greater creative control and a platform to bring forth social and political messages. With encouragement and artistic guidance, he produced music that revolutionized the industry, often anticipating societal developments. In the process, he became a pioneer, penning, arranging, and producing his own work.
A Lasting Impact & Continued Activism
Although he experienced the zenith of commercial success in the early 1980s with hits like "I Just Called To Say I Love You" and collaborations with Michael Jackson and Paul McCartney, critics often felt his later works fell short. Since 1987, Wonder has released only two albums, but he has remained active on stage for select tours and events. Recently, he shared the stage with US superstar Usher at the Met Gala's opening in New York. His unwavering presence and remarkable career continue to draw admiration and adoration from fans worldwide.
Wonder's most devoted followers include former President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama. Over the years, the pair has maintained a strong bond with the artist, who was awarded the US Presidential Medal of Freedom by Obama in 2014—a testament to his ongoing fight against racism and discrimination. During the 2024 election campaign, Wonder performed for Democratic candidate Kamala Harris, underscoring the significance of his involvement in politics and activism.
Additional Insights:
Stevie Wonder's political and social activism has been prominent within his long-spanning career. His activism, marked by essential efforts, performances at significant political events, and songs rich in social themes, can be traced back decades. Below is an overview of his activism, along with notable songs associated with his crusades:
Timeline of Stevie Wonder's Political and Social Activism
- 1970s to 1980s: Early activism, advocating for civil rights, gun control, and ending apartheid in South Africa.
- 1980: Launching a major campaign to establish Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday as a federal holiday.
- 1980s: Participating in anti-drunk driving and hunger campaigns, using public service messages and collaborating with organizations like Mothers Against Drunk Driving.
- 1990s: Composing the soundtrack for Spike Lee's 1991 film Jungle Fever and continuing advocacy.
- 2000s: Speaking at key civil rights events, including the 2006 funeral of Coretta Scott King, and establishing the Artist Empowerment Coalition to fight for artists' rights.
- 2010s: Serving as a United Nations messenger of peace, advocating for disability rights and global development.
- 2018 Onwards: Joining Twitter and using social media activism to promote social justice, endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris at the 2024 Democratic National Convention.
Significant songs reflecting his activism:
- "Living for the City" (1973): A poignant song about systemic racism and urban poverty.
- "Higher Ground" (1973): Representing spiritual and social perseverance, this song was notably performed at the 2024 Democratic National Convention.
- "Happy Birthday" (1981): Written for the establishment of Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday as a national holiday, serving as an anthem for civil rights recognition.
- "Sir Duke" (1977): A celebration of musical legends, also embodying broader cultural pride and African-American heritage.
- "Master Blaster (Jammin')" (1980): A tribute to Bob Marley, promoting peace and unity, reflecting Wonder’s global social concerns.
With five decades of activism, Wonder focuses on civil rights, racial equality, apartheid, gun control, disability rights, artists' rights, and political engagement. His music often encapsulates this activism, with songs like "Living for the City" and "Happy Birthday" directly connected to social movements. His lasting impact on music and activism underscores his continued influence in both spheres.
Stevie Wonder's activism encompasses a rich discography, as evidenced by tracks like "Living for the City" and "Happy Birthday," which reflect his fierce advocacy for civil rights and racial equality. Beyond music, his stage performances and public appearances have been landmarks in political and social movements throughout the decades, from supporting the establishment of Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday as a national holiday to promoting global causes like disability rights and artists' rights.
