The third night of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago was filled with electric performances from music icons like Stevie Wonder and John Legend. Below, see all the artists who took the stage on Wednesday and watch their performances.
Stevie Wonder graced the Democratic National Convention stage on Wednesday to deliver both a heartfelt speech and performance in support of Vice President Kamala Harris and her running mate, Minnesota governor Tim Walz.
Speaking to the thousands gathered at the United Center in Chicago, Wonder declared: “I love you. Every song that I’ve sing, every song that I’ve written is because of my love for you right here.”
He continued, “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 urged: “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.”
The music icon called on 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 segueing into his performance for the night.
“Are y’all ready to reach a higher ground?” he said before launching into his iconic 1973 track “Higher Ground.” Backed by dancers dressed in white, Wonder sang: “People keep on learning/Soldiers keep on warring/World keep on turning/’Cause it won’t be too long.”
Harris has been a longtime fan of Wonder, sharing in 2019 that her favorite album is the legend’s Songs in the Key of Life. The Democratic nominee also shared a birthday post for Wonder in 2020 and called him a “living legend and longtime hero of mine.”
Earlier this month, Wonder shouted out Harris during Duke Fakir’s funeral service. After singing “The Lord’s Prayer” and sharing an “Amen” with the Hartford Memorial Baptist Church crowd, Wonder simply said “Kamala Harris” and repeated: “Kamala Harris. There, I said it.”
The iconic Motown Records musician encouraged the crowd in Chicago’s United Center to vote before launching into a live performance of “Higher Ground,” the hit single from Wonder’s 1973 album, “Innervision.”
“This is the moment to remember, when you tell your children where you were and what you did,” the 74-year-old told the crowd. “We stand between history’s pain and tomorrow’s promises. We must choose courage over complacency. It is time to get up and go vote.”
“We must keep on keeping on until we truly are a united people of these United States,” Wonder said. “And then we will reach our higher ground. Are we ready? Because, you know, we need Kamala Harris.”
After also endorsing her running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, Wonder stepped in front of a piano and launched into “Higher Ground” alongside band members and dancers.
Reaching Higher Ground: Wonder’s Message of Unity
Stevie Wonder’s performance at the Democratic National Convention was a powerful reminder of the uniting power of music and a call to action for the American people. Wonder’s message of unity and his call to vote were delivered with passion and conviction, and his performance of “Higher Ground” was a powerful reminder of his enduring talent and legacy.
Wonder's performance comes at a time when the United States is deeply divided, both politically and socially. His words and music offered a message of hope and inspiration, urging Americans to come together and work towards a more just and equitable future. He stressed that progress doesn’t happen overnight, and that it takes collective action to reach a higher ground.
Beyond Music: Wonder's Legacy of Social Activism
Stevie Wonder is a music icon whose influence extends far beyond the realm of entertainment. Throughout his career, he has been a vocal advocate for social justice, using his platform to speak out against racism, poverty, and inequality. His performance at the DNC was a testament to his enduring commitment to these causes.
Wonder's performance at the DNC is just one example of his long history of social activism. He has long used his music and his voice to speak out against injustice, and he continues to inspire generations of artists and activists with his dedication to making a difference in the world.
A Moment of Hope
The Democratic National Convention, like many political events, is a platform for shared values and aspirations. Stevie Wonder’s performance brought a moment of hope, reminding everyone that even in the face of adversity, music and unity can pave the way towards a brighter future. The event served as a reminder that the fight for a better tomorrow is ongoing, and it requires the collective efforts of all Americans to achieve a more just and equitable society.
A Call to Action
Beyond the entertainment factor, Wonder’s speech and performance at the DNC served as a clear call to action. He reminded the audience that their vote is their voice, and that their participation in the democratic process is vital for creating positive change. His words resonated with the crowd, and it is likely that many will leave the event feeling empowered and motivated to make their voices heard.
The Power of Music
Stevie Wonder’s performance at the DNC demonstrates the powerful influence music can have in shaping political discourse. Wonder’s music has always been infused with social consciousness, and his performance at the DNC was a reminder that music can be a powerful tool for change. His message of unity and hope resonated with the crowd, and it is likely to have a lasting impact on those who heard it.
The DNC has enjoyed plenty of star-studded moments so far. Day 1 welcomed singers Jason Isbell and Mickey Guyton (James Taylor was cut from the program due to time constraints). On Day 2, music transformed what would have been a standard roll call into a lively celebration, complete with a DJ and a surprise performance by Lil Jon. Pink is set to close out the DNC tomorrow night, according to CNN.
The Power of a Vote
Wonder’s call to action, urging Americans to “get up and go vote,” was a powerful message that resonated with the crowd. His message served as a reminder that every vote counts, and that the outcome of the election will have a profound impact on the future of the United States. It is essential for all eligible voters to participate in the democratic process and to make their voices heard. The stakes are high, and the future of the nation depends on it.
Looking Ahead
Stevie Wonder’s performance at the Democratic National Convention was a moment of hope and inspiration. His message of unity and his call to action will resonate with Americans across the country. As the election season continues, Wonder’s performance will serve as a reminder of the power of music and the importance of voting. The fight for a better tomorrow is ongoing, and it requires the collective efforts of all Americans to achieve a more just and equitable society.
