Stevie Wonder

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Isn't she lovely: Stevie Wonder with his daughter and backing singer Aisha Morris at the O2, his first London show in over a decade

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Reader reviews (75)

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Having read many of the comments of those who attended the concerts, I went to see Stevie Wonder some years back now at the NEC in Birmingham and I have never been to a concert before or since whereby I felt like I was "a part of something really special". I will be at the Acer Arena in Sydney October 22nd with my wife and my 9 yrear old daughter, who is going to her first concert ever, and fully expect a vintage performance, what an introduction to real music for my daughter, I would walk over broken glass to see this man prform, he is a true great, and up there with the best there has ever been, and I CANNOT WAIT !!!!!!

- Neal Sayers, Sydney Australia

A wonderful band, selection of masterpieces, a vocal force of nature, the company of a true genius. It really doesn't get any better than that.

- Jonathon, London

The musical talent on display all night was exceptional and I'm still in awe of the man, the performance and the night as a whole. Granted one or two sets went on a little longer than the average "pop fan" might be able to appreciate. Bottom lines are: i) Stevie's voice has not diminished in stature to any significant degree while his presence has only increased, ii) musicians were all awesome, iii) the spine was tingled my many a song, iv) I would have happily paid double to be part of such a special event. But I just cant believe how picky/negative/cynical reviewers like Smyth can be - did he not listen to the crowd? I've been to many, many big gigs over the year and this was up there with the best. Stevie was the man...some guys just wouldn't know it if it bit them on their noses.

- John Quinn, Oxford

I think the reviewer simply doesn't know who we are talking about here. This is a genius in the true sense of the word - no comparison to Madonna - who is a commercial pop star. I am going to see him tonight & what I don't want is a singalong to old favourites. Stevie owes it to his fans to give us a concert where he plays his complex arrangements, maybe gives us a drum solo (remember Eric Clapton rated Stevie as one of the world's most talented drummers) and even better - jams some original thing he just goes with - that's when we see the true guy at his best.
Like the others, I have been reading that the majority of those attending are not aware of who they are watching and may as well be at a Barry White concert. The UK is not really up with the works of Stevie for whatever reason. How many times have we seen a camera zooming on a guitarist during a UK TV show when in fact what we are hearing is Steve's keyboard fingering.

I just hope he still has that radiant energy and infectious air about him that tell us all this man is about as musically talented as a human being can get. Stevie will last forever & I'm convinced will be regarded similarly to Mozart in the future - if we're still here.

- Pete, Hertford, UK

I have to say I just don't have any understanding of how Madonna and Stevie Wonder can be compared to each other. Madonna is a 'pop act' and performer. Stevie Wonder is not a pop musician (although his music is obviously popular). This man is an ARTIST. Innervisions, Music of my mind, Songs in the key of Life are works of genius.

Dont' get me wrong I have huge respect for Madonna for making it without any musical talent and not being especially attractive - she has made it because she is EXTREMELY intelligent and has the gift of picking songs with good hooks and always coming up with new and interesting styles. Without excellent producers and modern recording techniques Madonna would be nowhere.

Back to the Stevie Wonder gig...the problem is alot of people at the O2 were people who only have the 'Stevie' greatist hits package and are turning up to the gigs expecting a 'spice girls' or 'madonna' concert full of pop hits.

Stevie Wonder is music that can change you life. Lately, Overjoyed, Heaven is a zillion light years away. These are songs which penetrate your soul. I went to see Stevie Wonder not for a laugh and a dance (although I did both) but to have an 'experience' and I definately had one.

Stevie played the songs he wanted to play with no compromise and I love him even more for it.

- Andy, Kingston

Oooh, the reviewer and his sympathisers sound like the one-gig-a-year brigade and make me so cross! It may not have been a great concert, but SW played a fine mixture of terrific songs and greatest hits (some of which are not terrific songs). I was amazed that fantastic songs like "Lately" and "Overjoyed" were met with a such a lukewarm reaction from the crowd. Many of us DO want to know about the other musicians in the band and listen to them play a bit, but a big chunk of the audience were old gits who clearly only wanted to hear the famous singalong tunes. Go and listen to some more music including - dare I say the word - jazz, and then you'd find tunes like "Spain" more enjoyable. What's the point in going there just to hear perfectly-replicated renditions of 30-year-old songs? The only quibble I have is that the sound, even from the floor section, was very poor. The horn players were almost totally inaudible (perhaps that's good news for some bone-heads). Must have sounded truly awful upstairs. Incidentally I found the O2 staff remarkably friendly and helpful, without exception. Other venues can learn a lot from them.

- Herbie, London UK

I was there both nights....last saw Stevie in 1984 and attended all the shows at that time so my excitement level this time round was off the scale (especially as I was in Boston last year and missed him by 4 days!). On Thursday there were 6 of us - all family - and all die-hard long-term fans......I was up on my feet for Masterblaster and received a punch in the back from a librarian type behind me who informed me she couldn't see through me.....she'd obviously taken a wrong turn when entering the 02 and was looking for the Tutankamun exhibition (which is now finished). For Sir Duke and I Wish she was still rigidly sitting in her seat HOW CAN THIS BE POSSIBLE?? Reading the reviews I'm convinced many were there to hear I Just Called...and Superstition, the only songs which would be familiar to them. I went back on my own on Friday and it was phenomenal......the atmosphere was electric and EVERYONE was on their feet. Roll on October 1st when I'll be back - all by myself - but I think it's for the best! (couldn't get a ticket for Sept. 30th or I'd be there then too). Is this love? - no, it's WONDERLOVE XXXX

- Karen, London

i also saw Stevie Wonder and thought he was brilliant. While all the more widely known hits were left until the end and rightly so it was wonderful to hear his other songs while not so well known would be familiar to those who has his early albums. It was a huge pleasure to see him play the audience reminding you of what a truly outstanding talent he really is. I think some of younger performers today would do well to take note! My only regret was that being so high up in the stands you were relegated to staring at the screens either side of the stage but i do believe he was well worth the ticket price!

- Annette, Hastings

I was at the O2 on Friday 12th September. I'm afraid that your reviewer must have gone in the wrong door or forgotten his hearing aid as the concert was just as good as expected! Stevie even threw in some more obscure album tracks, most notably "As If You Read My Mind" from his 'Hotter Than July' album. The point of this was clear as he faithfully re-created the segue between this and the next track "All I Do". It's unfortunate that your reviewer's knowledge isn't sufficient for him to enjoy the concert on all of the levels that a 'fan' might but maligning a legendary performer for the sake of it is a bit sad.

If people who just wanted to 'see a legend' had waited and watched Mr Morris on Jonathan Ross there may have been enough tickets for the fans to go, then maybe some of the younger portions of the crowd wouldn't have treated the whole thing like a baseball game with constant comings and goings. On that point, I don't think people were going in and out because of the music but because that is the nature of this type of venue!

Sorry David, but if Stevie was reading this, I'm sure he'd think of you as a "Mistra Know It All". Bad form, mister. To paraphrase Angie Stone: "Keep (his) name out your mouth, 'till you got something worth talkin' 'bout".

- Kaya, Islington, London

I was as excited as all the "Real Fans" to be seeing Stevie Wonder at the O2. I paid top prices for a concert that i can only describe as dissapointing! Quite simply, he was unable to hold the audience's attention with people constantly going out for drinks and food. I didnt pay to see his daughter sing, or go to a political rally about Obama........ I went to see a Legend in action. How can a Legend who has written a song about his daughter (who was obviously there) not sing it (isnt she lovely) ....... no oncore, nothing. I have been to many concerts at the O2 and enjoyed them all, but was disapointed to pay £65 per ticket with £7.25 on top of each ticket for what i would call a boring show. Sorry, but an opinion!

- Lolly, London

Having seen Stevie 4 times previously over the last 24 years, it would be the understatement of the year to say I was excited! Before friday's O2 show, I checked out some of the reviews of the Manchester show. Some of the reviewers compained about a slow start & a lack of well-known hits. HOW WRONG!!! I was up on my feet from the first song (and somewhat frustrated when everyone kept sitting down between songs!).
When you have a back-catalogue that spans over 40 years, it must be fairly tricky to decide which songs to perform. After all, we all have our favourites! Personally, I would have loved to have seen Stevie do Another Star or Pastime Paradise or Yester-Me or even the lesser known Gold (check out his Natural Wonder Live double CD!). However, I didn't think about this until long after the show had ended...I was on such a high! And how brave to do Lately (check out Boston performance...very moving!) My friend thought it was the best concert she'd ever been to as did other friends who went on thurs night.
My only complaint is that I wasn't sat right at the front......how DO you get those seats?! (And I was online the second the tkts went on sale!) I'm sure they're all snapped up by ticket agencies who sell them at upwards of £200 a ticket. Either that or reserved for VIPs who aren't REAL fans. I would go to every single show of his if I could!
Stevie Wonder is a musical genius, a truly beautiful, inspirational human-being who always manages to give out so much love.

- Heather, London

My ticket which was purchased from Ticketmaster cost £71.50. Quite simply, the evening wasn't worth it. I wanted to hear Stevie play his hits but he played far too few of them. David Smyth's review is spot on.

- Jim, Stowmarket, Suffolk

Please don't pay attention to the reviewer who clearly isn't a fan, and worse, has no clue about Stevie Wonder or his music.

It was a great show, and any TRUE fan won't be disappointed with this legend's performance. Being in his presence is an honour.

David you're obviously not qualified to give your verdict on music, keep your petty reviews to yourself, thanks.

- Jenny, London

Don't know what david smyth is talking about he is obviously not a fan. I have waited to see stevie since the seventies and could not have had a more memorable night, having flown in from spain especially for the occasion. I went with my daughter and we both knew every song he sang - she having been brought up on his music. His voice is just the same. He gave a really moving performance and is a true superstar. Did david smythe go to the same concert?

- Moira, Spain, altea spain

I saw Stevie in Manchester and can't understand the complaints of people who just wanted a 'hits' set. Stevie is an artist and a musician who draws on and contributes to an evolving mix of jazz, soul, funk, gospel and mainstream pop. He's going to use and pay respect to all in his performance. In Manchester he was on stage for over two and a half hours; even so he has so many hits that a 'hits' set could have been an option, but a true artist does not express himself by merely repeating himself. I'm looking forward to going again in October.

- Joan Davies, Manchester, England

You seriously have to question the musical knowledge and credibility of a critic who opens a review with a cheap hook about the lack of sight of a musical icon.
I can only wonder if Mr. Smyth was watching a cheap tribute act on Thursday night? The Stevie I saw astounded with his musical range, vocal quality and audience connection.

To voice frustration at a percussion solo in a gig that fused pop, funk, jazz and latin is, quite simply, hilariously ignorant. Perhaps Mr. Smyth would feel more at home at a Girls Aloud gig where the risk of spontaneity is low?

It is also a wonder to claim Stevie all but refused to acknowledge his mighty past when the set list included large chunks of Innervisions and Songs in the Key of Life, arguably two of popular music’s greatest and most influential albums.

Or maybe the Jonas Brothers set across town would have been more to the critic’s taste than these two Grammy albums of the year?

And if Mr. Smyth honestly believes the chaos of missing the last tube due to a diva’s lateness on stage would have been more enjoyable then he clearly has a warped sense of fun. It’s only a shame he didn’t go to the Madonna gig so someone more deserving could have taken his seat at the O2.

All I can say Stevie is Don’t You Worry ‘Bout Mr. Smyth, He’s Misstra Know-It-All and I Don’t Want to Bore You With It, But I Love You, I Love You, I Love You.

- Patrick, Professional Violinist, London, UK

Shame on you reviewer. Stevie's set a masterclass in soul (you may call it R & B / Hip Hop Soul). Most of us were in awe of someone who has shaped music for 5 decades now. Not with just the popular 'Hits' but a legacy of throught provoking, beautiful songs that you may have just heard for the first time.
The sound and set was perfection. I've waited most of my life to hear them in the flesh and understanding that this can just be a selection he got it right.
Please show some respect.

- Mark, Welwyn, UK

After reading David Smyth's review, I really wondered whether he was at the same concert as us! Not only myself but my 3 children (ages 22,20 and 15) together with numerous friends who went on the 11th all agreed that it was probably one of the best evenings we had ever had! Stevie is undoubtedly a musical genius and apart from a long instrumental (which he seriously was entitled to do with 2 and half hours of performing!) introducing his band - the evening was full of hits. We were on our feet from the minute he came onto the stage until he exited, dancing and singing along to every song! The atmosphere in the arena was incredible and the 58 year old did not put a note out of place! How anyone could slate him is beyond me and looking around the arena it seemed everyone else felt the same. Perhaps David Smyth should have familiarised himself with some of his older hits before he went...my kids knew every single word of every song which im sure wont happen when they take their kids to any gigs that the artists of today may do in the future!!! The man is an absolute legend and certainly did not deserve the write up given!!!

- Dawn Lipman, Edgware

Stevie Wonder is a legend; however this concert was far from legendary. I have never been so bored and frustrated at a concert as I was at the O2 arena. It pains me to say, but I even started doing some work on my blackberry. I would even go so far to say that it was almost a bit self indulgent of Stevie to totally reject what the crowd had paid a lot of money for, and play the tedious trollop that he did. I have been to several O2 centre concerts now and have never seen so many people going to the bar and toilet, of he was rolling out the hits like in the last ten minutes of a 2.5 hour show, then i suspect people would have been glued to their seats. Instead we had sermons, instrumentals, unknown guest appearances and random Stevie songs which left me and byt the looks of things people around me cold. The only good point of the whole concert was the last 15 minutes where he decided to give the crowd what they had come for, however by then, it was all a little bit too little too late. Sorry Stevie, but next time I’ll just listen to your genius on my iPod for free rather than the four £130 tickets I naively purchased.

- Ricky, London

Nail on the head with the review. We expected two hours of golden moments, we got an hour of clanging tin, thirty minutes of brass and some bits to remember him by lobbed in at the end. I don't give a gnat's chuff who is in his backing band - they are without a doubt competent musicians but they aren't on the tickets aor the posters. Similarly his daughter, sweet though she is, only features once in his musical canon so why showcase her here? The pacing of the set was abysmal. Crowd firmly on their feet by the third number, slumped in their chairs for the next forty minutes or taking a browse round the stadium bars whilst he gave nine or ten minutes to 'Ribbon in the Sky' ... mantraing it over, and over, and over again. Great when you're relaxing at home with some mellowness and some mates, nigtmarish when you're wondering when it's all gonna end and he'll kick some ass with the vast array of craft to offer. They came, near the end ... horribly truncated, snipped and seguayed, as though he was pissed off that we were so glad to hear his best music. Stevie, we were glad. The last time you graced these shores was during the previous milennia. And I must say, if any of the O2 staff read this - sort your woeful acoustics out. a quarter second slapback from the ceiling wrecks anyones perception of the whole gig, so get an acoustic curtain rigged across the longitudinals.
2/10.

- Vic Woods, Gosport, Hampshire

Agree with the review, and we went on the 12th and it was just the same. Too much obscure stuff, and all the 'call and response' business, filling the first two thirds of the show. And then whizzing through all the classics in what was almost a 'medley'. The mans voice is still fantastic, and you could tell that even though the sound was awful. (our tickets were for the floor about half way back, so I suppose the sound was bad everywhere, not just at the top). Very disappointed and very expensive, we won't be hurrying back to the o2.

- Russ, london england

I am amazed at some of these reviews especially the one from David Smyth, but I suppose it just proves that it's all down to personal taste. The percussion solo that he mentioned was part of an amazing version of Chick Corea's 'Spain' that saw all members of the band demonstrate their individual brilliance in a jazzy, funky rendition of a jazz/fusion classic. With regards to Stevie, he was on top form. Yes, he is prone to sentimentality and is guilty at times of too much interaction with the audience (he always has been) but in terms of his choice of material and his vocal performance; both were top notch. I've been to the 02 four times in the last year and he had the arena rocking like i'd not seen before. Clearly one for the fans and if you fall into that category then you will definately not be disappointed. Two and a half hours of magic from the great man.

- Phil C, Herts Uk, Hertfordshire UK

So disappointing at the O2 last night. I have been a big fan since he started so I know he is a great talent which is why so many people have paid to see him - but he also needs to think about his fans who are there out of nostalgia as well as the ones who are happy with the heavy jazz-funk stuff, and the balance was just not right for an entertaining evening. Also agree about the awful sound system at the O2 which seemed even worse last night.

- Rose, Essex, Essex, UK

I would suggest that if you only wanted to hear Stevie's hit-list then you should have just bought a 'greatest hits' album instead and stayed at home. I went on 11th Sept concert and was totally blown away - his vocals are still supreme, the setlist was great with pieces to please both the true fans and the morons who simply tagged along for a night out (mostly spent queuing at the bars) and to brag they had seen him perform. Those people would only know his hits so its no surprise they felt left out iwhen he played anything else. Being a fan of Stevie's for 35 years since I was 12 years old, I know that he has strong beliefs, many of which are messaged through his music. If anyone was bored or turned off when he spoke briefly on peace, love, or how losing his mother had affected him, then shame on them.

- Karen, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire

I can't believe what I am reading! What absolute nonsense. This was a brilliant concert and for him to sound just as good now as in his heyday is testament to the quality of the artist. Would I have preferred to have less call and response? Maybe, but people were enjoying it, joining in and actually spent most of the concert on their feet dancing. The only real problem I had with the concert was that it was not long enough. Frankly, that you even have he audacity to compare Wonder with Madonna tells me how little you know about music. A true Stevie fan could not see this concert and tell you anything other than it was brilliant. All the other reviews of this tour say the same.

- Graham, London, UK

Wonder when Stevie will play his hits?
Master Blaster; Signed Sealed Delivered; Superstition; We Can Work It Out; Living for the City; Higher Ground; Sir Duke; Lately; Golden Lady; Visions; Ribbon in the Sky; Don't You Worry 'Bout a Thing; Do I Do; I Wish; I Just Called to Say I Love You; My Cherie Amour; Uptight; Knock Me Off My Feet; Overjoyed; As; to name just 20 classic tunes that anyone with a passing knowledge of Stevie Wonder would know, from his two-and-a half hour set, and not one of them written less than 25 years ago. Hits and nostalgia!
Mr Smyth, I suggest you at least listen a compilation album of an artist before you review them.

- Bassplayer, London UK

Yet again another journalist sent to review a concert and artist that he has no idea about. A true Stevie fan is in awe of just seeing him live, being in his presence, hearing his voice speak, listening to his thoughts and words, and on top of that we get to hear him sing - live - the songs which we grew up listening to and which we know every word rhythm and emotion. He has a brilliant, tight band. Well you either get it or you don't. David why don't you stick to reviewing less intelligent concerts?...Some nice pop music – the cheeky girls might be more up your alley!

- Elizabeth, London, UK

Like most critics you've obviously had your ears painted on!! Do your research and listen to the man's back catalogue and you'd realise he played many tunes from classic albums such as Innervisions (Visions, Golden Lady, Living for the City) and Talking Book (Superstition) Songs in the Key of Life (Sir Duke, I Wish). If he'd just blasted uptempo hits for 2 and half hours it would have been very tedious and you'd have still slated it. I thought it was a very balanced show, yes maybe the jazz funk workout was a bit long, but he wanted to acknowledge his musicians and take a pause to rest his voice because unlike Madonna he IS actually singing and playing the keyboards for 2 and half hours. The guy is a genius and it's a privilege to watch and hear him. PAT

- Pat Illingworth, LONDON

This concert was beautiful, amazing and touching. One of the greatest musicians live on stage was an opportunity of a lifetime. I have to say that I thoroughly enjoyed the concert. If people want the hits, go buy the greatest hits CD. This is about personality and creativity and the chance to pay homage to a legend...

- Mo, WGC, UK

Stevie's prformance of Lately was worth the ticket price alone! Great show from a true musical genius. Nuff said!

- Matt, London

On Friday I remember: Master Blaster, Did I Hear You Say You Love Me, All I Do (Is Think About You), Knocks Me Off My Feet, Higher Ground, Don’t You Worry About A Thing, Visions, Ribbon In The Sky, Overjoyed, Lately, I'm Gonna Laugh You Out Of My, Ma Cherie Amour, Signed Sealed Delivered, Sir Duke, I Wish, Isn’t She Lovely, Do I Do, Uptight, I Just Called To Say I Love You, Superstition & As. This was most of Friday's set list which makes me "Wonder" if David Smyth would recognise a Stevie hit if he heard one.

- Steve, Walthamstow

I was a bit shocked to read Mr Lawley moaning about the politics of the show. Don't you realise that politics was what the music was about and also what made it so great. These hits were written against the backdrop of segregation and the civil rights movement in America. So music had something to say about it, and has gone a long way to help change that.

Go and watch Boyzone - it sounds more up your street!

- Christian, Hove

Sorry, what what lesser known ballads were they? I went and apart from the song Aisha sang solo, I knew and loved every single song. He never once strayed from any songs from his big classic run of albums - in fact I was a little disappointed that there wasn't anything post-1984 performed at all (and except I Just Called To Say I Love You and Do I Do, nothing past the Hotter Than July album). One Temptations cover on top of that and the rest all classics
My only complaint was the O2 sound. It was fine for the songs, but it was tough to hear him when speaking directly to the crowd. Also would have loved to have heard You Haven't Done Nothin' and Another Star, but alas, there was no time as he left the stage at the exact 11pm curfew.

- E Melville, London, UK

I am totally with the reviewer. I've just come back from the o2 and was disappointed expecially for the price. I am a 'hardcore' stevie fan and yes, i was singing to the songs that hardly anyone else was, but it lacked atmosphere. Just as people got on their feet, stevie had them sitting down again, too many mediocre tracks. The last 40 minutes was the best, but even then he broke it by introducing one of his backing singers to sing "until you come back to me"I paid half the price to see Prince last year, and compared to Stevie, he was an absolute bargain. Oh and where were his two biggest uk 60's hits "for once in my life" and "yester-me yester-you yester-day"

- Alex Stassi, london uk

I went to Thursday night's Stevie Wonder concert, and I came away somewhat disappointed, much like the reviewer. As a musical living legend, Stevie Wonder has the right to play pretty much whatever he pleases. However, alternating upbeat songs with ballads for the first half of the show (glad to read that I wasn't the only one alternating standing and sitting) made for a very disjointed feel. "Ribbon in the sky" seemed to last for ages, and the "ribbons in the sky" on the screen looked cheap and tacky. A lot of people left during the very long instrumental piece (I went to the loo, queued for a drink and it was still playing when I came back). I am happy to be educated, and I didn't expect to hear hit after hit, but I expected the set to flow better than it did. The last hour was scorching though.

- Violet, London, UK

im with terry....i think its a sad and desperate world people live in to even make any negative reviews about stevie...the man is a genius and has nothing to prove to anyone...as terry said unless you are a "true fan" maybe you can not apperciate this...stevie made me laugh,cry (in a good way), dance my socks off...i had the best night of my life and so did everyone surrounding me..he had the best musicians in the world and im just glad i am lucky enough to have had the opportunity to see him..so stevie if you are reading this...anyone saying anything negative about you obviously has no soul, shame on you David Smyth..shame on you...

- Elan Ehlertsen, uk

I have never read such a spiteful and inaccurate review.

The assertion that the author left during a percussion solo and it was still going on when he returned is a blatant falsehood. There is simply no way that could be true as the toilets were jammed all night and there were no lengthy percssion solos during the show.

As for 'refusing to acknowledge his mighty past' - almost every song he played last night was a hit. In fact, the only song I recall that wasn't a hit was the jam session during which he introduced his band.

Stevie had the whole O2 arena on its feet, screaming and cheering, all night. Was Mr Smyth at a different concert? Because everybody but him seemed to be enjoying themselves.

- Charles Thomson, Essex

This gig was good but not great. The hits were awesome but there was too much self-indulgent jamming for it to be great. I know that his back catalogue is so big that going along expecting to hear only the greatest hits is as likely as hearing Dylan play all your faves but the set list could have been better.

- Niall, London

I was at the O2 last night and the air of expectancy was amazing as real fans welcomed a master home... and he did not disappoint. I've followed him since he was a skinny kid in concert with Martha Reeves and the Vandellas as his support and every time you see him he's different. If you want the same old, same old, see some one else. See Steveland Morrish for his musicality, his songs - some hits, lots from across the albums we all bought the day they were released - his message, for his sheer musicality, and his sense of playfulness and fun. Last night was a great set - and to hear him open simply playing harmonica was superb and brave. It didn't matter that I didn't know the song, I just listened to him and of course he threw in a cheeky 'London Bridge is falling down' for good measure. He gave us the soaring 'Lately', the sheer funk of 'Living for the City' and more and more. Oh and by the way when you've got a band that good you let them play: the percussion and drum sections were spine tingling,the trumpet player - proper old school and Nathan Watts...in a class of his own. Your critic is clearly not used to real music - he needs to turn off his ipod and get out more. Stevie signed, sealed and delivered to the O2 last night and his fans knew it. We sang, we danced, we experienced. Ratata

- Angela, Suffolk

There are some absolutely bizare comments, how can anyone question a set with visions and golden lady. As for his covers of the ghetto and people make the world go round absolute genius. Even ribbons in the sky - self indulgent maybe - but how funky was the vibe! to appreciate Stevie's music you have to understand his motivations and history.

Ive never heard anyone describe All I Do etc as gloopy ballads, Mr Smyth, I'd suggest that you invest in some of his albums and learn about what truely great composition is. I'd also advise several of these reviewers that they probably would have felt more at home at Wembley!

Thanks you Mr Wonder for a truly memorable night.

- Marcus M, Hampshire

Utterly brillient concert, obviously not appreciated by the critic and disrepectfull , selfish members of the audience, who talked the whole way through, I can't believe David Smyths' review, I can only think he is part of the 'FAST FORWARD' generation who cannot wait for anything. Stevie you were wonderful,

- Victoria Williams, Kings Langley. Herts.

I don't know if I can agree with the review because I couldn't even hear the music properly. Lucky to those who enjoyed the night - I can only assume they weren't subjected to the disastrous sound quality at the mid and upper levels. I love Stevie but I can't comprehend how someone of his calibre ended up working with such a cowboy PA system. My once in a lifetime opportunity was a huge disappointment.

Oh, and to the girls at the customer service desk shifting the angry mob from one bad seat to another - I felt sorry for the grief they got but they didn't help themselves by laughing. The o2 is nothing more than a glorified shopping centre with the same nonchalant teenagers running the place.

- Karen, London, UK

Possibly the most cretinous review I've read this year and clearly from someone armed with more linguistic flair (albeit limited) than knowledge of his subject. I think the fact that readers rated this 4.5 star and the reviewer rated it 2 star tells you how wide of the mark this review is. This show was top drawer. Wonder when stevie will play his hits?' - he played pretty much every single one of them on 11th Sept 2008 and what a pleasure it was to be there when it happened. I would hardly call 45 mins of pure greatest hits a 'fast flurry'. Only the novice would require 'patience' during this extensive display of Stevie's back catalogue. Not that there is anything wrong with being a novice, but why would a novice attempt a review so lacking in substance?

- David, Purley, Surrey

You were lucky to be able to hear what he was playing, from the seats we were in you couldn't hear a thing. I've heard better quality sound coming kids mobile phones on the bus! The O2 and Live Nation (the production company responsible) should be ashamed of themselves!

- Matt, London, UK

What a load of rubbish this reviewer is spouting when he suggests Stevie Wonder was "thin on nostalgia" and stuck to "lesser known, gloopy ballads". From the 1973 classic album "Innervisions" he played Visions, Higher Ground, Don't You Worry Bout a Thing, Living for the City and Golden Lady. Half of this ground-breaking, monumental album was played and yet you say the night was "thin on nostalgia"? I would politely suggest you inspect the quality of your record collection. And as for "lesser known ballads", would you be referring to Lately, Overjoyed, My Cherie Amour and Knocks me off My Feet - four of the most timeless songs ever written? Exactly what were you disappointed he didn't play? Ebony and Ivory? Happy Birthday?

- Jon Citizen, London

Whilst i take your point regarding the lesser known songs, i think Stevie has earnt the right to play what HE wants, and i don't feel he disappointed. As Joe says, he was never going to be able to fit all the hits in, but boy did he try - what a gig, what a superstar - one of the genuine few left too.
So he introduced the band - he'd probably be called self-centered if he hadnt, and David, two points you make; going to the bar during the 'lulls', well call me old fashioned but i remember when you paid (a lot) of money for a ticket and actually sat/stood and sang/danced/listened to the show, last night half the audience seemed just as keen on talking and drinking via repeated trips to the bar - very annoying for a lifetime fan who's trying to just take it all in, maybe the o2 need the alcohol revenue... and also, i really dont mind what he wears, his hair, or what size he is (lets see how we all look at his age?!) - if he can sing like that i'm happy, its also difficult to play your piano if you're not actually behind it.

My only question; was 'As', the final track, cut really short or was it me? seemed he ran out of time, shame, one of my favourites (one of many !!)
Thanks Stevie, a lifetime dream come true, you are truly special.

- Paul, Ipswich, UK

The reviewer notes that "nostalgia was thin on the ground" - who wants to bet that he'd have said exactly the opposite if Stevie had played too many of his 'hits'? A 'writer' has got to be 'edgy', right? [oh dear, how sad ...]

Quote: "I was there last night & could not agree more. Why are American bands so political these days... Yawn!" (Mr Lawley, Hounslow)

Perhaps it's because they still have things they believe in, instead of making the sole purpose of their jumped-up celebrity a footnote in the next day's tabloid rag.

- Cliff, London UK

The melodies were unbelievable and a real treat I enjoyed every moment a real honour to be in the presence of true greatness. I loved 'do I do' and 'Lately' was superb. I think if you are a musician you would have enjoyed it a whole lot more as the band and backing singers were very 'tight'. I didnt get my wish as 'Another star' wasnt played but hey maybe next time ...5 out of 5 all day long.

- Noel, Bermondsey

As a party of 8 visiting from Bristol and thinking this is the only chance of us seeing Stevie wonder, we cant help but agree with the review from the evening standard who summed up exactly the mood of our party and all the people around us. We were dismayed at the set list, when there are possibly 20 other classic songs that he could of included. Having spent in excess of £500 per couple we were all very disappointed. POOR SHOW STEVIE!

- Nigel & Jane, Bristol

I saw Stevie in London in 1974. He was emerging from the first part of his career - a Tamla pop star - into the most innovative and influential creator of music fusing pop, jazz, soul and progressive rock and blended with some blues. Despite become a slight parody of himself, with cheesy stuff to come, the 70's was a golden period.

Last night had to appeal to me as well as the millions of lovers of MOR pop. I reckon he did it just right.

I could have lived without the karaoke or 'teach yourself to sing' elements. Fortunately, the politiking was kept to a minimum and only a couple of drunken female voices interupted the call for silence to remember 'all unnecessary deaths'.

To be in the presence of a true legend was enough. In truth, he looked like someonce who hadn't been on ther road for yeards, but his music and singing is untouched by time.

Be cynical and challenging by all means, but use your judgement in describing the experience felt last night.

- Peter Lewis, Sutton, Surrey, UK

I appreciate everyone has their opinions, but I cannot understand where your "reviewer" was coming from. Especially having heard clips of Madonna in concert and cringing at the absolute physical and musical mess she is.
Of course Stevie was sat at a piano for most of the night!! I am not even going to point out why.
And as for cheesy ballads, those love songs are some of the most beautiful ever written. Evidently the sour Mr Smyth hasn't felt a romantic emotion for some time!
It really annoyed me how people were disrespecting Stevie by constantly moving around...the man is a legend and it might be the last time he performs in the UK, so why on earth they didn't make the most of it.
The long jazz-funk section was superb, it showcased the musical brilliance of his band. Backing bands are never given their moment of glory and I thought it was a cracking part of the gig. But to hear Golden Lady, Lately and Overjoyed made my day, my year, my life.
Those songs will live with me forever, Mr Smyth's comments are already forgotten.

- Clare, Isle of Wight

Stevie Wonder is a legend - it was a privilege to hear him play live and there were many many highlights during the show. For that I completely forgive the poor pacing of the show. His timing for the 9/11 tribute was somewhat bizarre - but who care. My son and I will always remember this concert and Lately left tears in my eyes

- Neil, Hampshire

As far as I'm concerned, David Smyth is totally wrong in his assessment of last night's concert by Stevie Wonder. As a young fan of this great musician, I found it to be a fantastic evening's entertainment that built from a relaxed start to a great climax of rapid fire, high-octane classics. The pure musicianship of Stevie's backing musicians alone was a lesson in breathtaking skill and finesse whilst the party-like ending to the concert was truly remarkable. The unequivocable fact that everyone within earshot left saying how much fun they had had is testament enough to another great gig from a true living legend.

- Simon Evans, Canterbury, U.K.

Absolutely loved every moment. The chance to see this legend live will stay with me forever. And what a sound, what a band, what a crowd! But more than all of that what a voice. Stevie Wonderful.

- Jerry, London

I never, ever, write comments on reviews but having gone last night and read through this I thought I should add my insignificant opinion.

I have listened to Stevie since a young boy and last night (11th Sept - 02)was meant to be one of best nights of my life, seeing an absolutely legend in action.

IT DID NOT DISAPPOINT!!

OK there were some bits where the band played on a bit and some of the interaction with the crowd didn't quite go to plan but for the love of God, I was watching Stevie Wonder!!

Can't remember the set list ( i was too in awe of the guy) but all of the songs I wanted played were played, plus a couple of other treats (Golden Lady for one..i never expected to hear that!)

If you are a big Stevie fan you will come away not only wanting to go again, but with the biggest smile on your face and the thought that you have just seen possibley the greatest musical genuis perform live.

Those who complained of the sound quality..if you were real fans you would have got in early and got better seats :-p

Truely a great night and if there are any spare tickets going??....

- Disco Stu, Watford, Herts

I have to disagree with the reviewer. With so many great hits I recognised every song of his and I'm only 19. I was a little worried about my cheaper seats in the stands, and the fact he may have lost it a bit, but he sounded as good as his previous live songs sounded, and the seat still offered a fantastic view.

One of the best concerts I have been to, will be getting the DVD

- James, North London, UK

He's done it before ......back in the late 70's I went to see him at Earls court and it was stop start all the way until the last part of the show. Too much Call and response, endless boring banter and sermonizing. What was really criminal then was country and western versions of his hits. It got all to much and we left early, as others were doing. Such a shame ... great catalogue of music to draw on.

- Terry, maidstone

Mr Smyth and Steve from London are totally wrong. Stevie Wonder has such a back catologue that if he played all his hits we would still be there now. This was the best concert that I have ever been too - His music is fantatic - He had the Fans in the Palm of his hand - Only True Stevie fans appricaite what he does and what he can do - Stevie carry on dont listen to your doubters

- Joe Birt, Camberley, Surrey

Sadly I have to agree with the review. Showcasing the band is fine if you are a four piece. When there are 8 plus playing a dense jazz-funk workout it becomes a little boring. Stevie is a legend and I'm glad I went, but the show lacked momentum and was not helped by the truly atrocious sound quality in the higher levels of the O2.

- Alan, Saffron Walden , UK

it shouldn't just be crowd pleasers - lesser known gems are an important part of any gig (esp for the hard core fan base). Song selection was not the issue (how could it be for SW) but Smyth has a point about the flow. I was sitting among fans who seemed to know every word, but the "one song standing, one long song sitting" routine even cramped their enthusiasm over the course of the concert (apart for the finale). Nobody doubts the stature/contribution/talent (neither does Smyth), but lack of touring appear to have left Mr Wonder a little out of practice. At least he cut the speeches from Birmingham which means he listens - next time round he'll match his repertoire with a perfect show. Not a cheap ticket, so Smyth did his job very well in pointing out the obvious weakness rather than blindly support an idol.

- Bert, Higher, Ground

I think the review is spot on. The choice of material, and equally the running order, was bizarre. We'd get uplifted and excited then sat down 4 minutes later.
People getting up to go to the loo/bar/anywhere else were very annoying, but perhaps they'd have stayed put for a better set list.
The flurry at the end was magic - and if I were to change the ES review I'd emphasise this slightly. Otherwise, fair enough!

- Derek Elmore, Stevenage, UK

What a Wonder-ful show! No other artist could, for 2.5 hours churn out such a repertoire of hits and classic album tracks like I heard last night.

A concert is about all-round entertainment of your audience not just getting them clubbing. It’s about relating to the audience, sometimes getting them involved in the proceedings and showing the virtuoso of the artist and his band.

Mr. Smyth is obviously a newcomer to music, unable to appreciate the finer points of the art. Everyone on the tube home seemed to be on a natural high, sharing their amazing experience of being in the presence of one of the greatest artists of all time.

A ridiculous review like this should be retracted by the Evening Standard and redone by a professional music critic at this evening's performance.

- Vaid, Surrey

Couldn't agree more with David. I've been a big fan for as long as I can remember. Got tickets for my teenage kids so they could hear real music! Ribbon in the sky lasting for what seemed like an eternity, saying the same bloody thing over and over in strange voices is not real music, in fact not music at all. The guy behind me shouted out 'come on Stevie you are boring us to death' - sums it up for the majority I'm afraid. With his repertoire and talent he should have had the audience in the palm of his hand - he failed until the last 40 minutes. It's not about churning out his 'best of' but it's not about self indulgent crap either. All in all last night cost me the best part of £500! What a waste!

- Steve, London, London UK

I was there last night & could not agree more. Why are American bands so political these days... Yawn!

- Mr Lawley, Hounslow

Completely agree with the previous comments. Stevie Wonder is a genius. I have seen him many times before, but last night was one of the best performances. Only a couple of minor gripes and they are nothing to do with the show. Firstly it is very disturbing to keep having people getting up and down then deciding to have a loud conversation every time there is a song on they don't like or know. Secondly to the idiotic women behind me who decided to shout out in the middle of the silence for 9/11, your boyfriend summed you perfectly. You were pathetic! Finally great show and I'm going again on 30th September.

- David, Weybridge UK

David of the Evening Standard "would gladly donate his eyes to Stevie Wonder". Wow! He must admire him really very much. Isn't that just heart warming, what an incredible generosity. Of course, it wouldn't help Stevie, but that's another question, otherwise he wouldn't have closed the lead of his review with this remark.
Saw no point in reading any further after that.

- Bob Blöte, Voorschoten, The Netherlands

David, I strongly suggest you really need to get another job as you clearly have no clue about what you listened to. Your opening lines seem to intimate you are a fan but the material played would be known if you only owned a greatest hits compilation. Please list the hits that were not played. In any case with the amount of material he had produced it would never be possible to include everything. I have never read such an incompetent review. On Sept 11th do you expect an American artist not to ask to a minutes silence? This review can only be one "fishing" for responses as it bears no relation to the event last night.

- Dj Carl D, London

Ocassionally when I read reviews I come to the conclusion that the reviewers spend so much time watching an abundance of artificial mediocrity that they wouldn't know quality if it slapped them in the face.
Stevie Wonder presented two and a half hours of genius last night. Miles Davis, Herbie Hancock's 'Spain' were chosen as moments for some to go and get their beer and chips. Giving world class musicians an opportunity to play was an integral part of the show and was appreciated by many. Reviewers, there was no backing tracks here!
Hit after hit followed alongside some lesser known album tracks like 'Did I hear You Say ' from 'Hotter Than July.' His performance of 'Lately' was from another world. Was the reviewer filling his glass at that point?
There are very few performers left whose music has been a soundtrack for so many peoples lives in fact has shaped popular music as we know it. Marley, Brown, Gaye etc are all gone. The day Stevie is no longer with us the world will be a dimmer place.
If you can get a ticket go...don't expect costume changes, backing tracks, choreography just expect a man who is a one in a lifetime and fortunately it's ours.

- Ian Swatman, Canterbury, Kent

Smyth has, like most ES reporters, totally and utterly missed the point of this event. I went last night not to go and hear every famous record Stevie Wonder has ever made (if I wanted to do that I've got an iPod with all those tunes on it) - rather to simply pay homage to a man who has done more for the evolution of popular music than anyone else bar the Beatles in the last 40 years.

It doesn't matter what music he and his excellent band played. They could have played nursery rhymes all night and his real fans would have still gone home happy. I work as a professional musician, and Stevie Wonder is the single biggest reason I chose to do this. His voice last night was on absolute top form and the musicianship of the man is clearly beyond reproach.

For many people there, this was a pilgrimage to pay long overdue respect to someone who has earned it through pure talent rather than relying on the more unscrupulous means of achieving fame and fortune used by those with less talent. Surely no paper other than the ES would even consider labelling Madonna a music legend in the same way that Wonder is.

I will die happy now that I have heard Wonder singing 'Lately' up close in the flesh - as a musician I very much doubt I will ever experience a moment that gives me that same spine-tingling buzz again.

Readers - do whatever it takes to get along and see Stevie Wonder. And please (as if you would anyway!) don't treat Smyth's review as being remotely on the pulse.

- Simon, London, UK

David, you must have been one of those hundreds of people who kept getting up constantly to wander around whenever a "hit" wasn't tapping your adrenaline gland. And how incredibly annoying you all were, too.

Concerts are not just slapping together your "Best Of" collection of top-40 records, churning them out and going home. There's ebb and flow. Some will have people on their feet and dancing, some will make them sit down and listen. Stevie and his band are musicians who care about the, well, the *music*. Unlike - hey, here's a name - Madonna, for example.

Luther Vandross always said that it was *easy* to get people partying at a concert. What was hard was to be able to get them to actually *listen* to you. If all you heard when Stevie did "Visions", "Golden Lady" and "Ribbon In The Sky" was "lesserknown, gloopy ballads", then it sounds like you weren't really listening.

When you say that "he mostly spent his time behind a piano and two keyboards", what is it you were expecting him to do, exactly? Breakdance? Ever been to a Stevie Wonder concert before last night, David? No?

- Daniel O'Connor, Tunbridge Wells, UK

Brilliant concert last night, i'm not a massive stevie wonder fan but i thought he played the right amount of hits and the setlist was well thought out. I was over joyed when he came out playing a miles davis song and even better when he played Spain by Chic Corea, which was the part with a lot of solos in it.

- George, Halifax

Having seen Stevie Wonder twice before, I was really looking forward to last night - but boy was I disappointed! The sound was awful...tinny, muffled and just not loud enough. Superstition close to the end should have been a belter with the sound of the bass filling the arena, instead it sounded like it was being played with the volume at half mast. Very disappointing all round for someone of Stevie's calibre - I'm not blaming him, maybe he (or the O2) needs a new sound engineer??

- Annette, London

How anybody could say that Stevie's show at the O2 was boring, I can not understand. The band were very strong and their chance to show their skills were very much appreciated by the crowd, odyssey or not. Stevie is a musical genius and not the hitmaker Mr Smyth desires. Maybe Mr Smyth should buy the latest Now that's what I call music CD and leave your free seat to somebody who understands and appreciates the art of THE musical genius of our lifetime. To see Stevie perfom Ribbon in the sky, Visions, Higher Ground and Living for the city live was like a dream come true. To dismiss some of the most beautiful songs as gloopy ballads shows Mr Smyth to be a one dimensional reviewer who has no eye for beauty. The unnecessary bulky comment was irrelevant and again shows Mr Smyth to be a very limited and unappreciative reviewer. Shame on you.

- Reggae Woman, London UK

Wow David!
I think you went to a different concert to me!
Didn't you notice everyone on their feet dancing for most of the gig?
The other Jazz Funk songs he performed were "Ghetto" and "People Make The World Go Around" (on the vocoder)
A Superb greatest hits gig just short of three hours with only a couple of tracks I didn't know. Agreed there was a very long instrumental version of "Concierto de Aranjuez" in the middle and I think that's when most of us took a comfort brake.
But overall a masterful performance from Stevie my personal highlight of the evening was "Visions"

- Gareth, Kent

I was at the O2 last night for the Stevie Wonder concert, and as a die hard fan I have to say I thought he played all of his greats and not just the cheesy mainstream ones, and his performance was fantastic leaving me singing all the way home.

- Raj, London

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