Having the chance to pay tribute to a music legend sounds like a dream come true (if you were musically gifted, of course). But if it was a legendary singer instead honoring you? That’s a chilling thought as well.
During a tribute concert in for Stevie Wonder, everyone was in for a real treat when another world-renowned artist took the stage.
The CBS broadcasted event was called, Stevie Wonder: Songs in the Key of Life – An All-Star Grammy Salute, and was hosted in Los Angeles’ Nokia Theatre. It was an evening dripping with celebrities who were there to honor the musician and his work.
Everyone enjoyed spectacular performances by artists like Beyoncé, Ed Sheeran, John Legend, Lady Gaga, Annie Lennox, and more.
One highlight (of many) is when Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli sang Wonder’s hit song, “I Just Called to Say I Love You.”
Before beginning his performance, Bocelli had something to say to Wonder (who was in the audience).
He says in the video:
“Stevie, you are a genius, you are a great composer … The only problem is that listening to this song I thought it was a very simple song.”
Laughter can be heard throughout the auditorium after Bocelli’s comment. However, he’s not done yet. He continues:
“When I decided to sing the song, geez – it’s so difficult! I did all my best, just to say ‘I love you.’ Thank you very much!”
Get ready for a Wonder classic with a Bocelli twist.
“I Just Called to Say I Love You” is a track from 1984 that topped the music charts and brought home an Academy Award and a Golden Globe. There’s a YouTube upload of Wonder’s song that has more than 111 million views!
Let’s be honest, it’s one of those 80s pop songs that’s hard not to sing along to. But even so, Andrea Bocelli might not be the first vocalist on your list when imagining artists covering it.
Well, prepare to be blown away! Bocelli’s voice blends with the song smoothly and beautifully from the very first lyrics. In fact, the crowd lets out some cheers only a few words into the performance.
When Bocelli reaches the epic chorus, we get a peek at Stevie Wonder who’s singing along from his seat!
One viewer commented on YouTube:
“Andrea and Stevie, both amazing voices. Magic right here!!! Thank you for the beautiful music.”
Bocelli sings the entire song in English and his voice sounds as magnificent as ever.
The tenor’s operatic talent shines through in the performance of “I Just Called to Say I Love You” giving it a unique twist. And of course, he hits all his high notes too! Surely there were some goosebumps floating around the venue that evening.
Another viewer pointed out:
“Boy this man can sing anything and do it well! What makes him such a great singer is he captures the spirit of each song and sings it as if he really means what he is saying.”
So, does it seem like Stevie Wonder liked Bocelli’s tribute performance?
In the end, Andrea Bocelli receives a standing ovation from the star-studded crowd, and Wonder is part of it. Surely it was a huge honor for both of them, don’t you think?
It’s not every day that you see two musicians as legendary as Wonder and Bocelli combine like this.
Watch the video below to experience the amazing performance for yourself!
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