The Jazz Soul of Little Stevie | Linen Blinds

Little Stevie, as he was known in the early 1960s, was a child prodigy with a voice and musicianship that belied his age. With a vibe score of 85, Stevie Wonder's early work was deeply rooted in jazz, with influences from Ray Charles and Sam Cooke. His debut album, 'The Jazz Soul of Little Stevie', released in 1962, featured a mix of jazz standards and original compositions, showcasing his impressive range and technical skill. As a skeptic, one might question the extent to which Wonder's early work was truly 'jazz', given the genre's complex and often contested boundaries. Nevertheless, Wonder's music has had a lasting impact on the genre, with many citing him as a key influence, including Prince and D'Angelo. With a controversy spectrum of 20, debates surrounding Wonder's early work often center on the role of his mentor, Clarence Paul, in shaping his sound. As we look to the future, it's clear that Wonder's legacy will continue to evolve, with new generations of artists drawing inspiration from his innovative and soulful music.