Opening for Stevie Wonder isn’t just a gig; it’s a musical gauntlet. You’re not just playing a set; you’re a human appetizer for a feast of funk and soul. Imagine the pressure! Your job is to get thousands of people swaying and smiling, knowing that “Superstition” is lurking in the wings.
It’s like being asked to sing “Happy Birthday” before Beyoncé walks out with a cake. Ridiculous, right? But the support acts at these Hyde Park shows have pulled it off with style, humor, and zero ego. They know the secret: play your heart out, then get off the stage.
The Usual Suspects (and One Surprise)
Let’s talk about the folks who’ve earned that slot. Over the years, Stevie’s Hyde Park events have featured a crew of absolute heavyweights as openers. Think Earth, Wind & Fire—yep, a whole other legend headlining before the headliner. That’s like having a Michelin-star meal before cake. Who does that?
Then there’s Corinne Bailey Rae. Her voice is honey, warm and smooth. She stands there with her guitar, looking all casual, and suddenly the whole park is swaying like wheat in a breeze. She didn’t try to compete; she simply charmed the crowd into a stupor. Smart move.
And you can’t forget Rita Ora. She brought the pop energy, all sequins and high kicks. Did she match Stevie’s soul depth? Nope. But she got people moving, which is the opening act’s only real job. Mission: accomplished.
