Imagine yourself sitting face to face with Bill Withers, sharing an intimate moment while he performs his timeless hit, “Ain’t No Sunshine.” Now, imagine the legendary Stevie Wonder joining in, singing along right by your side. This extraordinary event unfolded at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony in Cleveland on April 18, 2015.
During the induction, Stevie Wonder took to the stage, serenading Bill Withers with an incredible rendition of “Ain’t No Sunshine.” What made this performance even more special was Stevie’s choice of instrument – a Harpejji, a unique and melodious hybrid of a guitar and a piano. It was a truly unforgettable moment, one that stood out among the many incredible performances of the night.
Bill’s acceptance speech at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is often hailed as the greatest in the history of the institution. His heartfelt words resonated with the audience, leaving a lasting impact.
Meanwhile, Stevie Wonder’s foot-tapping performance was everything you would expect from the musical genius. His soulful and lyrical rendition, accompanied by his improvisation towards the end, showcased his immense talent.
As you watch the scene unfold, you can see the genuine gratitude, appreciation, and joy on Bill Withers’ face. His sheer delight was palpable as he reached out to touch Stevie Wonder at the conclusion of this remarkable collaboration. This moment of connection between two musical legends was truly something special.
Since the video was uploaded on YouTube, it has garnered over 11.5 million views and received thousands of positive comments.
One online viewer commented, “The pure admiration and love in Bill’s eyes…. And of course Stevie manages to make the song his own; that variation on the guitar is marvellous.”
Another wrote, “This performance blows that Rock n Roll hall of fame performance out the water! Stevie’s sweet soulful rich heartfelt voice just rings through the air. Not many singers can sing and make you feel it.”