Stevie Wonder gets emotional as Lady Gaga shares a childhood story about his music, before she drops a funk masterclass on Wonder’s ’70s classic that fans called one of her greatest moments!
During the star-studded Grammy Salute to Stevie Wonder, Lady Gaga delivered a deeply personal tribute that visibly moved the legendary soul artist. Before taking the stage, she shared a poignant memory from her youth, revealing a detail she had previously kept private. Gaga explained to the audience that when she was only six years old, a Stevie Wonder album became the very first CD she personally selected and placed into her home player. She credited this early, formative exposure to his music as a foundational influence on her own path, telling the icon directly that he was the primary reason she is here today. The reaction from Wonder underscored how much this heartfelt admission resonated with him on a personal level.
Following this emotional introduction, Gaga transitioned into a high-energy, masterclass rendition of Wonder’s 1977 chart-topping hit, “I Wish.” The performance showcased a side of her artistry that resonated deeply with the audience, as she navigated the complex, old-school funk and soul arrangements with remarkable ease. Her vocal delivery and commanding stage presence during the track were widely praised by observers, with many fans highlighting the performance as one of her greatest live moments. The energy in the room was palpable, as attendees remained on their feet throughout the entire performance, captivated by her ability to channel the classic, infectious groove of the song. Fans later praised the moment online, with one viewer noting that the entire audience stood up the moment she started getting into the rhythm, calling it a display of pure talent.
The event itself served as a massive, high-profile celebration of Wonder’s enduring musical legacy, featuring contributions from some of the biggest names in the business. Other notable performances included a collaborative segment featuring Beyoncé, Ed Sheeran, and Gary Clark Jr., who collectively impressed the crowd. Beyoncé opened this specific tribute segment with a powerful, soul-infused take on “Fingertips,” before she and Sheeran teamed up to bring the funk to “Master Blaster (Jammin’).” During this collaboration, Sheeran’s reggae-influenced rhythm guitar work was noted for its groove perfection. The segment then reached a high-energy conclusion as Gary Clark Jr. joined the ensemble for a spirited, rocking rendition of “Higher Ground.”
Watch the full performance on page two
