Stevie Wonder

Definition

Stevie Wonder is a legendary American singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist known for his contributions to soul music and the Motown label. His unique blend of rhythm and blues, pop, and jazz elements has made him one of the most influential musicians in American history. Wonder's work during the 1960s and 1970s not only helped define the sound of Motown but also pushed the boundaries of soul music, addressing social issues and personal themes through his lyrics.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Stevie Wonder was born Stevland Hardaway Morris on May 13, 1950, in Saginaw, Michigan, and became blind shortly after birth due to complications from premature birth.
2. He signed with Motown Records at the age of 11 and quickly rose to fame with hits like 'Fingertips' which showcased his talent as a young musician.
3. Wonder is known for pioneering the use of synthesizers and electronic instruments in his music, especially evident in albums like 'Songs in the Key of Life.'
4. His work often includes themes of social justice, peace, and love, particularly in songs like 'Living for the City' and 'Higher Ground.'
5. Stevie Wonder has won 25 Grammy Awards throughout his career, making him one of the most awarded male solo artists in Grammy history.

Review Questions

• How did Stevie Wonder's early life influence his music career and contributions to soul music?
  • Stevie Wonder's early life had a profound impact on his music career. Born blind due to complications at birth, he developed a keen sense of hearing and musicality from a young age. Signing with Motown at just 11 years old allowed him to harness his unique experiences into songwriting. This personal connection to challenges such as disability and social issues helped shape the emotive quality of his music and contributed significantly to the development of soul music during that era.
• In what ways did Stevie Wonder innovate within the Motown sound and influence the genre of soul music?
  • Stevie Wonder innovated within the Motown sound by incorporating a diverse range of musical styles including funk, jazz, and pop into his work. He was one of the first artists to successfully use synthesizers and electronic instruments, as seen in his groundbreaking album 'Songs in the Key of Life.' His ability to address complex social issues through his lyrics while maintaining commercial appeal set a new standard for soul music. This helped evolve the genre into a platform for deeper messages while still entertaining a broad audience.
• Evaluate Stevie Wonder's impact on modern music genres and how his legacy continues to influence contemporary artists.
  • Stevie Wonder's impact on modern music genres is immense; he laid groundwork for artists across various genres such as R&B, hip-hop, and pop. His innovative use of technology in music production has inspired countless musicians to experiment with sounds and themes. The blend of personal narrative with broader social commentary found in his work resonates with many contemporary artists who aim to evoke emotion while addressing significant issues. As a result, Wonder's legacy continues to shape how music serves as both art and social commentary.

Related terms

Motown:

A record label founded in Detroit in 1959 that became a symbol of the racial integration of popular music, known for its distinctive sound characterized by a mix of soul and pop.

Soul Music: A genre that combines elements of rhythm and blues and gospel music, characterized by its emotive vocal style and themes often focused on love, pain, and social issues.

Funk: A genre of music that originated in the mid-1960s, known for its strong rhythmic groove of bass and drums, which is prominent in many of Stevie Wonder's works.