# Stevie Wonder at 74: Unveiling the Truth About Motown

At 74, Stevie Wonder has finally broken his silence about his journey with Motown Records, revealing the struggles and triumphs that shaped his iconic career.

Born in 1950, Wonder’s musical path began at just 10 years old in 1960, amidst personal challenges including separation from a troubled father. Music became his solace as he sang on Detroit’s streets, captivating passersby with raw talent.

His life transformed in 1961 when he met Berry Gordy, the founder of Motown Records. Signed at 11 as “Little Stevie Wonder,” he joined a label that launched legends like Marvin Gaye and Michael Jackson.

Early hits like *Fingertips* and *Signed, Sealed, Delivered* showcased his genius, but success came with constraints.

Despite his talent, Stevie earned a mere 2% royalty per record sold—less than a penny per 98-cent sale. At Motown, artists had little control over their work, a frustration for Stevie who yearned to craft his own sound with meaningful messages. By 1971, he boldly demanded full creative control. When Gordy refused, Stevie walked away, recording independently.

This daring move paid off; Motown eventually offered a new contract with the freedom he sought. Returning on his terms at 21, he ushered in a golden era with albums like *Music of My Mind* and *Songs in the Key of Life*, earning 12 Grammys in a decade, including Album of the Year for *Innervisions*.

Beyond music, Stevie used his platform for social change, addressing inequality in songs like *Living for the City* and advocating for unity. His influence persisted into the 1980s and 1990s, mentoring rappers and contributing to soundtracks.

However, personal challenges shadowed his career. Born prematurely, Stevie lost his sight to retinopathy of prematurity due to excessive oxygen in an incubator—a common risk at the time. Despite rumors questioning his blindness, fueled by moments like catching a falling microphone stand or attending NBA games, experts attribute these to his heightened senses of hearing and touch.

Tragedy struck in 1973 when a car accident left him in a coma with severe head injuries, yet his love for music fueled his recovery. Legal battles also marred his journey, including a dispute with his lawyer Johanan Vigoda’s family over a lifelong 6% earnings clause Stevie claims he was unaware of due to his blindness.

Family controversies, like a cousin’s blackmail attempt with unfounded accusations, and professional disputes further tested his resilience.

Stevie’s personal life, marked by nine children with five women and a brief marriage to Syreeta Wright, reflects complexity and joy, evident in songs like *Isn’t She Lovely* for his daughter Aisha.

With 25 Grammys and a legacy as a multi-instrumentalist who reshaped R&B, Wonder’s impact is undeniable. His classic era from 1972–1976 produced timeless works, cementing him as a musical pioneer who challenged Motown’s constraints to create art that endures.