Stevie Wonder on Prince's "greatness" and "love for people"
Prince's sudden death Thursday has spurred tributes all around the world, shining a light on his extraordinary impact as a musician.
While his musical genius was obvious, his personal, private life largely remains a mystery. But legendary musician Stevie Wonder knew him better than most, and wants his friend to be remembered not only for his pioneering music, but also his love for people.
"Nothing's too early or too soon to just celebrate the greatness of a man that did so much for the music world as well as for the consciousness of caring about people as did he," Wonder told "CBS This Morning" Friday.
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As an artist, Wonders spoke to Prince's uniqueness, calling him "far more daring" than others in the industry. He reflected on some of his favorite memories of the late musician, which include numerous collaborations such as Prince's remake of Wonder's song, "Cold Chill," and "What the Fuss," which features Prince as well as En Vogue.
"You know, the songs are like the memories ... and it was so exciting to be able to perform with him," Wonder said.
Of the many times he's shared the stage with the icon, Wonder recalled a spontaneous jam session on his 61st birthday, when the duo song Wonder's hit song "Superstition" at a Prince concert a few years back.
"But most of all, you need to know what he wants to do and what's going to make a difference. That's the most important thing - that he wore his sincerity on [his] sleeve and you could feel it," Wonder said.
Prince used his music as a platform to address issues of social injustice, including police brutality and racial discrimination. Wonder also recalled discussions he had with the late artist about America's lack of gun control and the Black Lives Matter movement.
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"And I just wish that the world, everyone of whatever culture, ethnicity or religion, that you take a moment to remember how irresponsible we all are by not following the direction of people," Wonder said, "Listen, let's have a day, a week, a month, a lifetime of love. It's not impossible."
During a 1999 interview with Larry King, Prince opened up about Wonder, calling him a "role model." That sentiment is reciprocated.
"I feel honored, but he influenced me too," Wonder said.
Influenced by Prince's over-the-top guitar skills, Wonder discovered a new musical instrument about three years ago that allows him to create similar sounds.
In a beautiful tribute to his friend, Wonder played the harpeji, singing Prince's iconic song, "Purple Rain."