BALTIMORE – “I got friends. I got friends. I got friends.”

His unmistakable voice, a soulful tenor that has graced countless classics in soul, R&B, and pop for over six decades, filled the arena.

His appearance was equally recognizable: dressed in dark attire, he wore a snug black cap with his braids flowing down his back.

As Stevie Wonder came onto the stage, singing about the virtues of friendship, the packed audience at CFG Bank Arena began to realize that the figures beside him were a remarkable surprise.

He was flanked by former President Barack Obama and his wife Michelle, who escorted the legendary musician to center stage, where he would take his place among a collection of keyboards and a baby grand piano.

With the Obamas by his side, Wonder, now 74, kicked off his performance with Martha & The Vandellas’ “Heatwave,” playfully switching “landslide” into the chorus in reference to the upcoming presidential election.

As the thrilled audience joined in on the singing, President Obama leaned toward Wonder, who was seated, and joked, “I’m not singing tonight. I just want to make sure Stevie gets into his chair.” He then patted Wonder on the back and reminded everyone, “Get out there and vote.”

‘Don’t sweat the small stuff’

Wonder’s short tour of 11 shows, which commenced last week and wraps up on November 2, is perfectly timed for the election season and aptly named: Sing Your Song! As We Mend Our Nation’s Broken Heart.

While he isn’t directly campaigning, his support for democratic ideals is clear from his performance at the Democratic National Convention in August. However, the focus is mainly on a message of hope and healing, represented by his new song “Can We Mend Our Nation’s Broken Heart,” which kicked off his remarkable 2-hour and 40-minute performance on Tuesday.

The ever-expressive Wonder shared numerous anecdotes alongside his classic hits. He recounted his experiences on a tour bus as an 11-year-old, conveyed his passion for all music genres by saying, “Music helps to bring us together,” and offered sage advice in a playful tone, “For all you men, remember, you came from a woman. … Don’t get bogged down by trivial matters.”

Obama dedicates a Wonder classic to Michelle

Although the evening included several political remarks – “If my words offend you, too bad because I still love you,” Wonder said before a soulful rendition of “Village Ghetto Land” – it was ultimately a night filled with joy and profound admiration for the talented musicians performing.

Wonder assembled a large ensemble of musicians – at least 30, including strings and brass – to flawlessly recreate every beat in tracks like “Master Blaster (Jammin’)” and “For Once in My Life” with both sophistication and soul.

The infectious energy from Wonder was evident, making the audience stand and dance for much of the performance, and even the musicians joined in, with the string players moving in rhythm as Wonder, with his powerful voice, led a vibrant call-and-response during “Signed, Sealed, Delivered I’m Yours.”

Wonder’s signature harmonica solos consistently elevate the atmosphere, and his genuine happiness was evident when he noted that “You Are the Sunshine of My Life” was “dedicated from President Obama to Michelle.”

Stevie Wonder joined by a magnificent choir

While Wonder has made minor adjustments to his setlist during the tour, the Baltimore show featured another unforgettable moment.

The Morgan State University Choir took the stage, delivering a lively hand-clapping rendition of Donald Lawrence & The Tri-City Singers’ “The Blessing of Abraham.”

They also joined Wonder for the first live performance of “Love’s In Need of Love Today” since 2019.

“This song remains so relevant, and we must address that,” Wonder remarked as he and the choir delivered a stunning version of the song from “Songs in the Key of Life.”

With keen insight, he flawlessly combines two of his most powerful songs for an unforgettable performance.

The opening trombone of “Sir Duke” is legendary in the world of music, and the energetic horn interludes during the song rival even the best sounds from Tower of Power. This 1977 tribute to Duke Ellington exploded on stage as Wonder excitedly acknowledged Count Basie, Louis Armstrong, and Ella Fitzgerald, showcasing a passion for the song that remains strong after more than forty years.

By transitioning from “Sir Duke” to “I Wish,” with its captivating bass line that resonates deep within, Wonder ensured that the energy of the celebration would continue well into the night.

It’s clear he enjoys every moment of being on stage, sharing his thoughts and hope for a more harmonious world. As he mentioned early in the performance, “When you’re blessed, you’re blessed.”