Biography
Who is Stevie Wonder?
Early life and real name
Stevland Hardaway Judkins entered the world on May 13, 1950, in Saginaw, Michigan. He was born six weeks early, which led to a condition called retinopathy of prematurity. This medical issue eventually caused his blindness shortly after he was born.
When he was four years old, his mother and her three children moved to Detroit following a divorce. He started singing in a church choir at age eight. During his childhood, he began mastering several instruments including the piano, drums, and harmonica.
How Stevie became famous
At age 11, he sang a song titled Lonely Boy for Ronnie White. This led to a contract with the Tamla label at Motown. During this early period, the label used the stage name Little Stevie Wonder for him.
He achieved significant success as a young teenager. His track Fingertips reached the top of the Billboard Hot 100 when he was 13. This achievement made him the youngest solo artist to ever reach number one on that specific chart.
Career highlights and musical style
Stevie Wonder transitioned into a major creative peak between 1972 and 1976. During these years, he released influential albums such as Music of My Mind and Talking Book. He used synthesizers to change the sound of contemporary R&B music.
He made history with the release of Innervisions, Fulfillingness' First Finale, and Songs in the Key of Life. These records helped him become the first Black musician to win the Grammy for Album of the Year. He also won this specific award three times in a row.
Awards and recognition
The musician has earned 25 Grammy Awards throughout his career. He also received an Academy Award for his work. He has been honored by several prestigious institutions, including the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame.
In 2014, he was presented with the Presidential Medal of Freedom. He was also named a United Nations Messenger of Peace in 2009. Also, he was granted citizenship in Ghana in 2024.
Family and personal life
His mother, Lula Mae Hardaway, was a significant figure in his early years. He has been married to Syreeta Wright. Stevie Wonder is the father of two children named Keita Morris and A'isha Morris.
He attended the Michigan School for the Blind in Lansing. Throughout his life, he has remained active in various political causes and charitable efforts.
Birthday and age
Stevie Wonder was born on May 13, 1950, which makes Stevie 76 years old today. That birthday falls under the Taurus sign. Stevie shares the date with 58 other famous people.
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