Considering the astonishing gifts he has already given us through his music, do we even have the right to expect any more from Stevie Wonder? Maybe, maybe not, but the truth is the artist whose first No. 1 hit came five decades ago with "Fingertips" is in the midst of a creative explosion akin with his greatest years in the 1970's. For his first studio recordings in eight years, Wonder, the rare touring act who can be called genius without qualification, has produced not one but two records, both as distinct in their origin as they are in their intention. To fulfill a promise made to his mother who passed away in 2006, Wonder is making he first foray into gospel music; he's also making an additional record that reflects not only his growing interest in hip-hop but also personal heartbreak stemming from among other things his recent divorce.
But none of this should indicate that the Motown legend is turning his back on his monumental legacy. The owner of over 50 top 40 singles has recently taken to thrilling ticket buyers by playing the entirety of his 1976 diamond selling classic Songs in the Key of Life live in concert. It is a rare that in our lifetime a legend of Stevie Wonder's stature could find equal inspiration reaching into the future as well as the past. It is rarer still that he is able to share his joyous visions in all their power with anyone fortunate enough to catch this Rock and Roll Hall of Famer on tour.