Stevie Wonder Performs and Speaks at 2024 DNC: Watch Now

Pop icon Stevie Wonder took the stage at the Democratic National Convention (DNC) in Chicago on Wednesday, delivering both a powerful speech and a stirring performance. Wonder underscored the significance of supporting Democratic nominee Kamala Harris and emphasized unity among the American people.

“We must keep on keeping on until we are truly a united people of these United States and then we will reach a higher ground,” Wonder stated. Following his speech, he performed his classic hit, “Higher Ground.” The musical lineup also featured performances by Merin Morris and John Legend, making it a star-studded event.

The 2024 Democratic National Convention is being held from August 19-22 at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois. Known for being the home of the Chicago Bulls and Blackhawks, the United Center has hosted the Democratic Convention 11 times, the most recent being in 1996 when President Bill Clinton was nominated for a second term.

For those wishing to follow the events, USA TODAY will provide livestream coverage on YouTube each night, from Monday through Thursday. The convention will also be broadcast live on its official website, with timings set from 6:15 p.m. to 11 p.m. Eastern (5:15 p.m. to 10 p.m Central) on Monday, and from 7 p.m to 11 p.m. Eastern (6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Central) on the remaining days.

The DNC has also outlined specific themes for each night under the overarching title “For the People, For Our Future.” The themes are as follows:

• Monday: “For the People”
• Tuesday: “A Bold Vision for America’s Future”
• Wednesday: “A Fight for our Freedoms”
• Thursday: “For our Future”

Wonder’s presence added a significant layer of excitement and gravitas to the event. Known for his multiple Grammy wins and his lifelong impact on music and culture, Stevie Wonder used his platform to call for peace and unity. “This year I’ve prayed for peace to come to our world’s nations but also to each one of our hearts,” he shared, touching on the broader desire for global and individual peace.

His performance was an essential highlight, embodying the spirit of hope and unity that he spoke about. Stevie Wonder has long been a figure of inspirational music and activism, and his involvement in the DNC serves as a reminder of the power of music and celebrity influence in the political sphere.

Adding to the significance of the event, other prominent speakers like Tim Walz and former President Bill Clinton are also scheduled to share their messages. The inclusion of a diverse range of voices aims to bolster the overarching message of unity and forward-thinking that the DNC is promoting this year.

The themes explored each night at the convention aim to resonate with the broader public and emphasize collective responsibility and action for the future. The first night kicks off with “For the People,” setting the stage for messages that focus on inclusivity and collective effort. Subsequent nights delve deeper into America’s vision for the future, the ongoing fight for freedoms, and ultimately, the aspirations for future generations.

Wonder’s message is clear: unity and peace are foundational for reaching “higher ground.” As the American political climate remains intensely divided, voices like Stevie Wonder’s serve as both a call to action and a reminder of the shared values that can bring people together.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Stevie Wonder speaks and performs at the 2024 DNC: Watch

Source: USA TODAY