Stevie Wonder Turns 60

Today, Stevie Wonder turns 60 years old.

Not slowing down anytime soon, the unofficial eighth wonder of the world solidified his place in music history even before he reached his teen years. Known as "Little Stevie Wonder" early on his career, the Michigan native is the definition of an artist.

More than just a music icon, Wonder is an activist who has championed civil rights throughout his career.

In honor of the beloved singer's big birthday, Black Voices takes an intimate look at the life and career of the 25-time Grammy Award-winning Motown Records legend.

Take a look.

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Stevie Wonder: Through The Years

Stevie Wonder was born Steveland Hardaway Judkins (later taking the name Steveland Morris when his mother married) in Saginaw, Mich., May 13, 1950. However, he would spend his formidable years growing up in Detroit.

Stevie Wonder: Through The Years

Born premature, Steveland was placed in an incubator for oxygen treatment. He suffered blindness after receiving too much oxygen in the incubator.

Stevie Wonder: Through The Years

Stevie Wonder signed to Motown Records at 11 years old, after being discovered by Ronnie White of the Miracles. Motown founder Berry Gordy is credited with changing Stevie's name to "Little Stevie Wonder."

Stevie Wonder: Through The Years

Stevie Wonder wrote his first published song, 'Lonely Boy' at the tender age of 10

Stevie Wonder: Through The Years

At the age of 13, Stevie Wonder had his first hit, 'Fingertips (Part 2),' which went on to sell 1.6 million copies (Source: Ebony, Jan. 1997)

Stevie Wonder: Through The Years

By the age of 21, Stevie Wonder had sold an estimated 35 million records. He left the Motown label in the early 1970s once his contract expired, because he wanted more artistic control. In an unprecedented deal, Wonder returned to Motown in 1972 with full creative control and the rights to his own songs.

Stevie Wonder: Through The Years

In 1970, Stevie Wonder married former Motown secretary Syreeta Wright, who co-wrote Stevie's hit 'Signed, Sealed, Delivered, I'm Yours,' but within two years, the couple divorced. In 2001, Stevie married fashion designer Kai Milla Morris.

Stevie Wonder: Through The Years

In 1973, while on tour, Stevie Wonder was in a car accident that left him in a coma for several days, but he was back on tour within a year.

Stevie Wonder: Through The Years

Stevie Wonder has performed at numerous monumental events, including the inauguration of President Barack Obama in 2009 and the memorial service for the late King of Pop, Michael Jackson (also in 2009).

Stevie Wonder: Through The Years

Mariah Carey & Stevie Wonder at the Billboard Music Awards At the MGM Grand Hotel & Casino.

Stevie Wonder: Through The Years