At the Stevie Wonder: Songs in the Key of Life — An All-Star Grammy Salute, Lady Gaga didn’t just perform — she opened her heart. Before taking the stage, the pop powerhouse shared a touching childhood memory with the soul legend, one she admitted she had never told anyone before.
“When I was six years old, your album was the very first CD I ever played by myself,” Gaga said with emotion. “You’re the reason I’m here today.”
Her words visibly moved Wonder, and the crowd could feel the sincerity between them — a beautiful moment of gratitude from one artist to another.
A Funk-Fueled Performance to Remember
Then came the music — and Gaga lit the stage on fire. Taking on Stevie Wonder’s 1977 hit “I Wish,” she delivered one of the most electrifying performances of the night. Known for her pop anthems and avant-garde flair, Gaga showed yet another side of her artistry — full of funk, groove, and pure soul.
Her voice soared with power and precision, channeling that unmistakable energy of the Motown era. Fans were in awe, flooding social media with comments like, “The audience was standing from the moment she started — pure talent!” and “One of her best live performances ever — vocals, energy, outfit, everything was flawless.”
It was a reminder that Gaga isn’t confined to any one genre — she is the genre.
An All-Star Celebration of a Musical Legend
The Grammy Salute was packed with unforgettable collaborations. Beyoncé, Ed Sheeran, and Gary Clark Jr. joined forces for a spectacular medley that brought the house down.
Beyoncé kicked things off with a soulful rendition of “Fingertips,” setting a fiery tone. Then, she and Sheeran blended harmonies on “Master Blaster (Jammin’),” with Sheeran’s reggae-infused guitar adding a perfect groove. Gary Clark Jr. closed the set with a searing guitar performance on “Higher Ground,” bringing the tribute to a thrilling close.
It was a night that reminded everyone why Stevie Wonder remains one of the most celebrated artists in history — his songs are timeless, and his influence, immeasurable.
Released in November 1976 as the lead single from Songs in the Key of Life, Stevie Wonder’s “I Wish” quickly topped the Billboard Hot 100 in January 1977 — his fifth No. 1 hit.
Wonder once shared that he wrote the song right after a Motown picnic in the summer of ’76. Filled with joy from the day’s laughter and nostalgia, he went straight to Crystal Recording Studio to capture that feeling in sound. The result was a funk masterpiece overflowing with warmth, rhythm, and childlike happiness.
Originally, Wonder struggled with the lyrics, experimenting with spiritual ideas before settling on a theme of childhood memories — perfectly matching the song’s upbeat, carefree vibe.
