Stevie Wonder was the daughter of Steveland Hardaway Judkins and later took the name Steveland Morris after his mother wed. Stevie Wonder was born in Saginaw (Michigan) on May 13, 1950. Baby Steveland was born prematurely and was put in an incubator to receive oxygen treatment. He was born prematurely and received too much oxygen. This led to his blindness. Although his family didn’t know it, Wonder’s loss of sight later gave him a greater awareness of sounds. This is evident in his bright, vibrant music. Wonder’s handicap was not a deterrent. He learned the piano at seven years old and the drums and harmonica by nine years. Wonder and his family moved to Detroit in 1954 where Steveland joined the church’s choir. This gospel influence influenced Wonder, who was already musically inclined, and he continued to develop his musical interests. Ronnie White of Miracles discovered Wonder while Wonder was performing in 1961 for some friends. White quickly organized an audition at Motown Records for Wonder, where Berry Gordy signed Wonder on the spot. Gordy gave the child the name Little Stevie Wonder, and placed him under the care of Clarence Paul, a producer/songwriter. Stevie’s first two albums, A Tribute To Uncle Ray and The Jazz Soul of Little Stevie were released in 1962. These albums featured covers of Stevie’s idol Ray Charles and showcased his instrumental skills on the piano, harmonica and percussion. Despite showing Stevie’s prodigal talent, neither of these albums sold well. They were lacking musical direction. The 12 Year Old Genius was released in 1963. It featured the single “Figertips,” Pt. 2″. 2
