Stevie Wonder urges people to choose 'courage over complacency' as he performs 'Higher Ground' at DNC

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS: Stevie Wonder captivated the Democratic National Convention crowd on Wednesday, August 21, with a stirring blend of speech and song. 

The legendary musician took to the stage at Chicago’s United Center to express his unwavering support for Vice President Kamala Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz.

Stevie Wonder delivers a message of unity and peace as he performs his 1973 hit 'Higher Ground' 

Addressing the crowd, Stevie Wonder said, "I love you. Every song that I’ve sung, every song that I’ve written is because of my love for you right here." 

He shared his personal plea for global peace stating, "But this year, I prayed very hard for peace to come to our world’s nations, but also to each one of our hearts, even though our hearts have been beaten and broken beyond prayer."

Wonder expressed, "Now is the time to understand where we are and what it will take to win. Win the broken hearts, win the disenchanted, win the angry spirits — now is the time as we stand between history’s pain and tomorrow's promises."

The 'Superstition' singer urged the crowd to "choose courage over complacency" and to "keep on keeping on until we truly are a united people of these United States," before transitioning into his performance for the evening.

Following his heartfelt speech, Wonder energized the audience with a performance of his 1973 hit 'Higher Ground'. Accompanied by a group of dancers clad in white, the 74-year-old's performance was a powerful call to action.

"Are y’all ready to reach a higher ground?" asked the musician, before launching into the song, which features the memorable lines, "People keep on learning / Soldiers keep on warring / World keep on turning / 'Cause it won't be too long."

Who took the stage on Day Three of the DNC?

The third night of the DNC at Chicago's United Center was a showcase of stellar performances and influential speeches. Aside from former President Bill Clinton, former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, and Vice Presidential nominee Tim Walz, the evening boasted a remarkable array of musical talent.

The night began with Jess Davis, the 2019 Minnesota Teacher of the Year, performing a poignant rendition of the National Anthem. Maren Morris then energized the crowd with her 2020 hit 'Better Than We Found It', a song that reflects her departure from traditional country music.

Wonder, a perennial favorite, delivered a memorable performance of his 1972 classic 'Higher Ground'.

John Legend closed the evening with a high-energy rendition of Prince's 'Let’s Go Crazy', joined by percussion icon Sheila E and guitarist Ari O’Neal. Legend, a committed advocate for the Democratic ticket and a vocal supporter of Vice President Harris added a dynamic end to the night with his electrifying performance.

Internet gushes over Stevie Wonder's captivating Democratic National Convention performance 

Stevie Wonder's stirring rendition of his classic hit 'Higher Ground,' was met with widespread admiration. 

One commented, "Musicians are cooler than actors," while another, despite being a "Republican," acknowledged, "I’m very anti-DNC but Stevie comes from such a respectful, empathetic place that I can’t help but totally admire him."

"This is it, people. We absolutely cannot let Stevie Wonder down. If you let him down, I'm gonna cry," expressed a person, while a fan marveled, "Stevie Wonder is well named. One of the greatest."

However, not all feedback was positive. Some critics voiced their discontent, with one remarking, "He can't even see what will happen to this country if Kamala wins," and another stating, "America needs money to pay bills, not musicians."

One more comment read, "He's at the Demonic National convention... God help him."

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.