According to reports, legendary singer/songwriter Stevie Wonder announced in a virtual press conference earlier this week, he’s leaving Motown Records. In addition, Wonder is launching his own imprint “What The Fruss Records”.
The superstar artist signed with Tamla Records, a Motown subsidiary, at the age of 11 years old by music icon Berry Gordy Jr. His new label will be under the Republic Records/Universal Music Group umbrella.
“I had a great conversation with Monte Lipman, the (Republic) president, and I spoke with India. Arie, who had signed with Republic,” Wonder said. “Even though I have left Motown, I never leave Motown. That’s Detroit. So I’m sure that we can figure out how we can do some things at Motown.”
“Maybe I’ll do my ‘Gospel Inspired by Lula’ with Motown. We’ll work it out,” Wonder continued.
As the star continued the press conference, the 70-year-old stated that he had also undergone kidney transplant surgery and is in great spirits.
“I was blessed with a new kidney, and that happened on December 6, 2019,” he said. “I feel great. My voice feels great,”
In celebration of his new journey, Wonder showcased two new songs that speak upon the current political climate and the racial tension in the United States. One of them the “Can’t Put It In The Hands of Fate” featuring Rapsody, Cordae, Chika and Busta Rhymes.
“Where Is Our Love Song” featuring Gary Clark Jr. is the second song Wonder has released. Proceeds from this single will go to the non-profit Feeding America. Furthermore, his music features strong language from the music phenom.
“You say you’re sick and tired of us protesting / I say not had enough to make a change,” he sings. “You say you believe that ‘all lives matter’ / I say I don’t believe the f**k you do.”
Wonder, a 25-time Grammy award winner, is planning what will be his first full-length album in 15 years before 2020 comes to a close. The album will be entitled, “Through the Eyes of Wonder”.
