Stevie Wonder, Glasgow review: ‘Maestro pitched everything perfectly’
From its stellar first half to its life-affirming finale, this was a masterful performance that sent fans home with a spring in their step, writes Fiona Shepherd
Stevie Wonder, Hydro, Glasgow ★★★★★
The pre-gig atmosphere at Stevie Wonder’s first Scottish show since 1989 was more akin to the discreet buzz around a classical concert. We were, after all, about to witness a maestro at work, fronting a band of almost orchestral proportions. The occasion was the 50th anniversary of his masterwork (well, one of them), Songs in the Key of Life, a double album of supreme soulful class, which goes deep rather than heavy in its evocation of civil rights and the saving grace of music.
Who could argue with “your friendly announcer” on Love’s In Need of Love Today or the continuing relevance of Village Ghettoland, a pretty tune for an ugly picture. Wonder doubled down with a plea for peace and was mindful that he was playing on Remembrance Day. I Wish was his own remembrance - already nostalgic in his mid-20s - and part of a stellar first half run including the sublime Knocks Me Off My Feet and the funky one-two of Contusion and Sir Duke, with the brass section demonstrating their worth.
The ample string section took the glory on Pastime Paradise, while the band as a whole shone on the rock vaudeville of Ebony Eyes and the epic Joy Inside My Tears. Wonder pitched everything perfectly, from his playful Scottish accent and appreciation of the glottal stop to his pride in his family, several of whom were showcased in the performance.
Second half highlights included the funky consciousness of Black Man, with Wonder in a flow state, and a vocally virtuosic I Am Singing (“from my heart”). Once again, how could anyone doubt it? If It's Magic was movingly stripped back to voice and harp, before a life-affirming finale of the superlative and soothing As, the Latino joy of Another Star and a bonus Superstition to send everyone home with a spring in their step.
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