ABU DHABI // Stevie Wonder enraptured thousands of fans at Yas Arena last night with a spellbinding performance dedicated to the earthquake- and tsunami-ravaged people of Japan.
The 60-year-old musician at one stage picked up a "keytar" (an electric keyboard which is worn over the shoulder like a guitar) before lying down and writhing on the stage floor to the delight of the crowd.
It was Wonder's first concert in the Middle East and he played for more than an hour, performing hits such as Signed, Sealed, Delivered, I'm Yours.
Music lovers of all ages came to the arena to hear him belt out some of the hit songs from a music career, which has spanned almost half a century. Kayleigh Coleman, 25, from the UK, bought a ticket for her mother, Lorraine, 47, who is visiting the Emirates.
"We never got a chance to hear him back in the UK. He's amazing and that's why we are here."
Janelle Erickson, 30, an advertising executive from the US who works in Dubai, said that Wonder had profoundly influenced music over the past three decades.
"Maroon 5, for example. If you listen to their stuff it's clear they love Stevie Wonder," she said.
"Also, seeing him lie on the floor and play an awesome keytar solo like that ... what a legend."
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