Stevie Wonder

Stevland Hardaway Judkins (born May 13, 1950), known professionally as Stevie Wonder, is an American singer, songwriter, musician, and record producer. A prominent figure in popular music during the second half of the 20th century, Wonder is one of the most successful songwriters and musicians. A virtual one-man band, his use of synthesizers and further electronic musical instruments during the 1970s reshaped the conventions of R&B.

Early Life and Career

Born premature, Wonder was placed in an incubator where he received too much oxygen, which resulted in retinopathy of prematurity and blindness shortly after birth. Despite his disability, Wonder showed an early gift for music. He began playing instruments at an early age, including piano, harmonica, and drums. He was discovered by Ronnie White of The Miracles and signed to Motown's Tamla label at the age of 11.

Classic Period (1972-1976)

Wonder's "classic period" began in 1972 with the releases of Music of My Mind and Talking Book, the latter featuring "Superstition", which is one of the most distinctive and popular of his recordings. Another landmark album from this period is Innervisions (1973), containing the hits "Living for the City" and "Higher Ground". Songs in the Key of Life (1976) was critically acclaimed and became his best-selling work.

Musical Innovation

Wonder's use of the Moog synthesizer and TONTO synthesizer helped redefine the sound of popular music in the 1970s. He pioneered the use of synthesizers in R&B and pop music and was instrumental in making them mainstream. His musical innovations went far beyond synthesizers, incorporating everything from jazz and Latin rhythms to classical music and reggae influences.

Legacy and Influence

Wonder has recorded more than 30 U.S. top ten hits and received 25 Grammy Awards, one of the most-awarded male solo artists. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1989 and the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1999. He has sold over 100 million records worldwide, making him one of the best-selling music artists of all time. His influence on contemporary R&B, soul, and pop music is immeasurable.