Stevie Wonder's annual House Full of Toys Benefit returned to the Microsoft Theatre in Los Angeles, with some special guests, to raise funds for the singer's nonprofit "We Are You" Foundation in the spirit of Christmas.
For 24 years, Wonder has held this Christmas-time event for his nonprofit that benefits children, people with disabilities, and families in need.
According to Billboard, Wonder brought in several artists and musicians together for the once-a-year event, which included performances from Gregory Porter, Trombone Shorty, Jody Watley, Rickey Minor, Tina, and Teddy Campbell, as well as Wonder's very own daughters, Zaiah and Nyah.
Albeit the singer-songwriter has brought in several industry icons, the star of the show is still the purpose of the event-and maybe Wonder himself, of course.
In a statement announcing the annual event, Wonder wrote: "Today, more than ever throughout the world, we are challenged with many issues. social, political, economic, and spiritual, but that must not stop our opportunity to give and share in the spirit and reason for the season."
Concertgoers are asked to bring unwrapped toys or gifts to the event, which will then be handled by the "We Are You Foundation", and then given to the families and children.
According to the Los Angeles Daily News, Wonder also invited other artists like Anderson .Paak and Tony Bennet, however, more recent reports failed to mention either artist.
Reports noted that Wonder performed his Christmas hit, "What Christmas Means to Me," and other well-loved hits like "I Wish," a song off his critically-acclaimed album, "Talking Book," released in 1972.
This might come as no surprise as Wonder had just celebrated the 50th anniversary of the release of "Talking Book."
Wonder also performed "You Are the Sunshine of My Life," "Blame It on the Sun," and "You And I (We Can Conquer the World)."
After the concert, Wonder emotionally thanked the audience, and reflected on how music brings love, and not hate.
"I love all of you so much. I give all praise to God for all the songs I've written or co-written. If you understand love, you can't spend one second entertaining the spirit of hate ... Let's show the world how to love again."
And before walking offstage, he addressed the audience one last time: "I wanted to give you all everything I could give you ... I love you; God bless you - and we are done!"
Aside from this annual Christmas-time event, the We Are You Foundation also does several other projects, including one for visually impaired and blind children, youth, and adults in honor of the singer.
© 2024 MusicTimes.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
