Stevie Wonder at 74: The Legacy Projects That Could Redefine His Career and His Life

At an age when most people might settle into the quiet comfort of retirement, Stevie Wonder is doing the exact opposite. At 74, the iconic musician behind timeless hits like Superstition and Isn’t She Lovely is not only working harder than ever—he’s preparing to make some of the boldest moves of his entire life.

From crafting a long-awaited gospel album in honor of his late mother, to launching a revolutionary music project that could reshape his legacy, and even announcing plans to relocate permanently from the United States to Ghana—Stevie Wonder’s current chapter is defined by purpose, urgency, and transformation.

A Return to Music After Years of Silence

Stevie Wonder’s last full-length studio album of original songs was A Time to Love, released in 2005. For nearly two decades, fans wondered whether the artist had already said everything he needed to say. But in 2020, Wonder made an unexpected return, releasing two powerful tracks: Where Is Our Love Song featuring Gary Clark Jr., and Can’t Put It in the Hands of Fate. These weren’t just musical releases—they were direct, urgent responses to the social and political unrest gripping the United States at the time.

Equally surprising was Stevie’s decision to step away from Motown Records, his musical home for nearly 60 years. Instead, he released these tracks under his own label, So What The Fuss Records, marking a new chapter of creative independence. According to Stevie, this was about having full control over his message and reaching audiences with music that carried both weight and truth.

“In these times, we are hearing the most poignant voices—and that is the sound of the people. I’ve got to get it done. I want to get this stuff that’s in my mind and in my heart out.”

These songs were not one-offs. They were previews of what’s to come—and what’s to come may be the most emotionally and artistically significant work of Stevie Wonder’s career.

A Gospel Album Decades in the Making

One of the two major projects Stevie is working on is a deeply personal gospel album dedicated to his late mother, Lula Mae Hardaway. Lula, who passed away in 2006, wasn’t just his mother—she was his first manager, lifelong supporter, and an integral part of his early success.

“I’ve wanted to do it for so long. For years, I’ve had all these songs,” Stevie shared.

The gospel album, tentatively titled The Gospel Inspired by Lula, has been in development for over a decade. Rather than rush it out, Stevie has been writing and recording whenever the spirit moved him. The result is a collection of songs that go beyond musical expression—they represent a spiritual journey, a way for Stevie to process grief and celebrate his mother’s influence.

This project marks a return to Stevie’s gospel roots, reflecting the values, faith, and family that shaped his life from childhood to stardom. As he reflects on legacy and mortality, the gospel album is more than a tribute—it’s an act of love.

Through the Eyes of Wonder: A Revolutionary Musical Statement

If the gospel album is Stevie Wonder’s heart, then Through the Eyes of Wonder is his voice. This second major project is being described as a transformative work—one that seeks to blend his classic musical style with bold, modern messages. The album has reportedly been in development for over ten years and is expected to echo the soul and depth of 1970s masterpieces like Songs in the Key of Life.

What sets this project apart is Stevie’s determination to create music that not only reflects the world around him but also offers guidance and hope. He’s been collaborating with longtime friends and new artists, aiming to bridge generations and genres.

The title itself—Through the Eyes of Wonder—suggests a retrospective look at life, society, and legacy. It’s a powerful concept, coming from a man whose career has spanned seven decades and whose music has spoken to issues of justice, love, and change.

This project could become the final word in Stevie’s storied career—or the opening to a brand-new conversation.

A Shocking Announcement: Leaving the United States

In 2020, during an emotional interview with Oprah Winfrey, Stevie Wonder made a stunning revelation. He announced his plan to leave the United States and move permanently to Ghana. While he had spoken of this idea before—in the 1990s—it now appears that Stevie is making concrete steps toward making it a reality.

“I want to see this nation smile again… but I also want to move to Ghana. I’m going to do that,” he told Oprah.

His reasoning? A deep sense of disappointment in how America continues to grapple with racial injustice and inequality. Stevie expressed concern for future generations—his children’s children—and their right to live with dignity and respect without having to beg for it.

“I don’t want to see my children’s children’s children have to say, ‘Oh please like me. Please respect me. Please know that I am important.’”

According to recent reports, Stevie has already purchased property in Ghana and has been making frequent visits. This isn’t a symbolic gesture—it’s a personal decision rooted in faith, frustration, and a longing for peace.

More Than Music: Stevie’s Legacy Work

While new albums and relocation plans capture headlines, Stevie Wonder is also dedicating himself to legacy projects that will have long-lasting impact.

As a United Nations Messenger of Peace since 2009, Stevie has focused on global advocacy for people with disabilities. His work in promoting accessibility and inclusion remains a central part of his mission.

He continues to host the annual House Full of Toys benefit concert, a beloved holiday tradition in Los Angeles for over two decades. Concertgoers bring unwrapped toys, which are distributed to children in need—a tradition that speaks to Stevie’s enduring commitment to community and generosity.

His influence even extends into the world of technology. In the 1970s, Stevie collaborated with inventor Ray Kurzweil to develop a reading machine for the blind—an innovation that changed countless lives. Today, he remains active with organizations like Learning Ally, which creates educational tools for those with disabilities.

Final Thoughts: Stevie Wonder’s New Chapter

At 74, Stevie Wonder is not slowing down—he’s doubling down. His current projects reflect an artist with nothing left to prove but everything still to say.

Whether it’s the long-anticipated gospel album, the revolutionary Through the Eyes of Wonder, or his potential move to Ghana, Stevie is focused on legacy—his mother’s, his music’s, and his own.

He’s no longer just making music for the charts. He’s making music for the soul.

In a time when the world often feels chaotic and divided, Stevie Wonder’s voice is as needed as ever—not only to entertain, but to inspire, challenge, and uplift.

His eyes may not see the world the way most people do, but through the eyes of wonder, he’s showing us a clearer vision of what it could be.