Stevie Wonder spoke to Billboard magazine about his new album, Through the Eyes of Wonder, current social issues in the United States, and his Grammy tribute concert. The singer-songwriter told Billboard magazine that a lot has happened in the world, since his last album was released ten years ago. Wonder said he hopes his new album will help people move more in a positive direction. “I’m hoping to show what I’ve seen and I’m hoping it will encourage people to move to the next level that will give us a place of positivity,” the singer told Billboard.
The singer-songwriter thinks it’s time for people to stop being silent and start taking actions. The music legend said he’s never shied away from speaking up about injustice, and he uses music as a way to address social issues. “I’ve always asked to be able to speak and write about injustice and to do it in a way that would encourage people to make things better for everyone,” Wonder explained to Billboard. The magazine asked Wonder if he thinks the protests in Ferguson, New York, and other cities as a progressive way of taking actions. “We’re stuck in fear and in not wanting to cross that most important bridge of understanding that we’re more alike or not. We all cry, we all laugh,” the singer replied. He added, “We know the things that are not good and are right. Those things that we know are wrong, we’ve got to fix them.”
Stevie Wonder was asked about how he feels about the new music distribution system, such as music streaming. The singer said he feels like it’s cheapening music, and using music as a background source is unacceptable. Wonder said more emphasis needs to be put on the quality of music, so fans can receive a better music experience. “People love to hear music on their personal devices, but the issue really becomes if you’re able to download music,” Wonder stated. He added, “You should know this download and the quality of it is going to be the highest, and that it has a value to it and on it.”
The legendary musician also spoke to the magazine about the Grammy’s tribute concert honoring him. The tribute featured performances from Beyoncé, Pharrell Williams, Lady Gaga, Ed Sheeran, Babyface, Jill Scott, and more. The singer said he was very thankful for everything he has been able to achieve and discover during his music career. “I feel thankful to God, first and foremost, by allowing me to enjoy this smell the roses kind of thing,” Wonder told Billboard. He added, “All I ever wanted to do was music, and all I’ve ever asked, I’ve gotten to know and discover the world more.” Stevie Wonder said he hopes his music continues to inspire love, and it also inspires people to love each other.