L-R: Shelea, Kelly Rowland, Stevie Wonder, Jessie J, Donald Glover, Luke James (Jerritt Clark/Getty Images for Wonder Productions)Stevie Wonder played an intimate show Wednesday at The Peppermint Club in Los Angeles, and backstage at the event he chatted with Billboard about his forthcoming studio album, Through the Eyes of Wonder, and some other musical projects he’s planning. Wonder, who celebrates his 68th birthday this Sunday, reports that he’s “close” to finishing the record.
As for when the legendary singer thinks the record will be done, he said, “hopefully in a couple of months or so.”
Other projects Stevie’s planning include an album with vocal group Take 6, recording music in Africa with various singers and percussionists, and a gospel album that he long ago promised his mother he’d make.
Wonder also discussed the ideas he has for his next major tour, which he says will reflect the themes of his Peppermint Club show — that is, celebrating life, love and music. Stevie revealed that he’s planning to collaborate with actor/musician Donald Glover — who joined him onstage during the club gig — on interactive visual presentations that will be part of his concerts.
“I’m wanting people to…bring their photos to put into the show to celebrate life moments they’ve had with me via my songs,” Stevie explained. “Since I’ve had a chance to talk with Donald a little bit to get a sense of what can be done visually, I want to have a marriage of visuals and music this time.”
He added that he and Glover “haven’t done anything yet, but we’re going to make it happen. I’ve got about 24-25 songs I want to work with.”
During his L.A. show, Wonder invited several celebs, including Glover, Kelly Rowland and Jessie J, onstage to sing his classic “Superstition” with him.
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