WASHINGTON— Recording artist Stevie Wonder surprised Washington fans with a free “pop-up” concert at the D.C. Armory Mall Monday morning.
The concert was the first of three pop-ups the artist is performing to promote extended dates for his “Songs in the Key of Life”performance tour. He has just added 20 more dates, including a concert at the Verizon Center in Washington on Oct. 3.
The singer-songwriter sat at a keyboard at center stage and belted out some of his most memorable tunes for a crowd, ranging from tiny tots to older fans.
Philadelphia and New York were also set receive “surprise” performances on Monday.
Although singing was the main agenda for the recording artist’s hour-long, outdoor show, he also took time to hold a mini-news conference to share his thoughts on social issues — and to also promote his “Claim the Bullet” campaign, an initiative to stop gun violence.
When asked what advice he would give to performers, Stevie Wonder said, “Inspire everyone. Encourage people…let’s not just talk nonsense.”
Wonder brought along his 22-piece band to rock the crowd of about 500. The set list of five of the star’s biggest hits kept fans at the concert dancing and singing along to the music in the scorching Washington heat. He also brought part of his family onstage to greet the audience.
Many concert goers heard about the performance via word-of-mouth and social media sites. Free doughnuts and water were handed out.
“A friend of ours texted us and said we better come down here,” said Jane Hellewell of Washington, “It was pretty awesome to be right here watching him. He’s amazing.”