A Timely Visit From Stevie Wonder Wraps Up His Final Tour, Sing Your Song! As We Fix Our Nation’s Broken Heart, In Chicago On The Cusp Of Election Unease

Nov 05, 2024 admin_bitlc Features, Music News, Reviews 0

By Harrison Kristoff

Stevie Wonder, the legendary maestro whose music has shaped generations, delivered an unforgettable night of musical brilliance at Chicago’s United Center this past weekend. For fans who have followed his career from Songs in the Key of Life to Innervisions and beyond, this was more than just a concert – it was a master class in soul, funk, jazz, and pop, all seamlessly woven into one incredible performance.

The Setlist: A Journey Through Time

Kicking off the evening with the signature keys of Fingertips, Stevie immediately set the tone, unleashing a powerful wave of energy that resonated throughout the venue. As his iconic harmonica rang through the speakers, the crowd erupted into applause, their anticipation met by the familiar magic of his sound. What followed was a retrospective of his expansive catalog, including fan favorites like Sir Duke, Higher Ground, Isn’t She Lovely, and I Wish.

But what made this show truly special was how Wonder’s setlist took the audience on an emotional journey. There were moments of deep reflection, like the haunting Master Blaster, which gave Wonder’s band the space to shine, with extended instrumental solos that displayed their virtuosity. The horns section in particular was a standout, punctuating the funky grooves with brass that nearly brought the house down.

A true highlight of the night came when Stevie led the crowd through an impromptu sing-along of My Cherie Amour and You Are the Sunshine of My Life. The United Center, typically known for housing sports fans, transformed into a massive singalong, as thousands of voices harmonized in unison. It felt less like a concert and more like a community gathering of shared memories and timeless joy.

Wonder’s Timeless Voice and Instrumental Genius

What struck the most about Stevie Wonder’s performance was how little his age has worn on his remarkable voice. Now in his 70s, Wonder still hits the same high notes and soulful low notes with ease, his vocals rich with the same raw emotion that first made him a star decades ago. There was a rawness and authenticity in his delivery, especially during Living For The City and For Once in My Life, that made each song feel personal.

Of course, it wouldn’t be a Stevie Wonder show without his masterful command of the keyboards. Throughout the evening, he shifted effortlessly between piano, synthesizers, and his signature harmonica. The instrumental solos were a reminder of why Wonder is one of the greatest musical innovators of our time. His ability to seamlessly blend jazz, funk, soul, and pop with such dexterity was as stunning as ever.

The Band: A Dream Team

Stevie Wonder’s band – including a tight rhythm section, an exceptional horn section, and backup vocalists who harmonized with heavenly precision – ensured that every note and groove landed perfectly. The interplay between the musicians, especially during the extended jams of Sir Duke and My Eyes Don’t Cry, was mesmerizing.

Wonder’s tight-knit ensemble seemed to understand the nuances of each song, allowing Stevie the freedom to improvise and explore without hesitation. Drummer Smitty Smith was particularly impressive, bringing deep pocket grooves to tracks like Master Blaster (Jammin’) and Signed, Sealed, Delivered I’m Yours, while bassist Dwayne “Blackbyrd” Smith held down the low end with unshakable precision.

Audience Connection

Perhaps the most poignant moment of the night came during a heartfelt speech Wonder made about the importance of unity, love, and peace in today’s world. It was a message that resonated deeply with the crowd, reminding us that Stevie Wonder’s music has always been about more than just entertainment – it’s about creating a shared experience, an emotional connection, and offering solace in turbulent times.

His ability to engage with the audience, effortlessly switching from humor to sincerity, made the concert feel intimate, even in the vast expanse of the United Center. As the night drew to a close, Stevie left the stage after an electrifying encore, but not before performing Can’t Buy Me Love as an impromptu tribute to The Beatles. The crowd didn’t want to let him go, and Stevie returned to the stage one final time, delivering a rousing rendition of Superstition and Another Star.

Conclusion

Stevie Wonder’s performance at the United Center was more than just a show—it was a celebration of music, love, and life. The legendary artist delivered a flawless mix of old classics and new gems, accompanied by a stellar band that made every note come to life. With each passing year, Wonder’s musical genius continues to shine brighter, and this concert was a reminder that, even in a world where time marches on, his artistry remains timeless.

For those lucky enough to witness it, this was not just a concert – it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that only Stevie Wonder could deliver. If this indeed was Stevie Wonder’s final show ever, we should be so lucky as he ended on an absolute high note.

For more on Stevie Wonder, click here.

Setlist: Stevie Wonder, Chicago, United Center – November 2, 2024