AMERICAN EXPRESS PRESENTS… BST HYDE PARK LONDON 2025 - STEVIE WONDER
Hotter than July, Cooler than ever
★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
STEVIE WONDER CLOSES 2025’S AMERICAN EXPRESS PRESENTS… BST LONDON 2025
PICTURE BY: ISHASHAH PHOTOGRAPHY
A scorching Saturday in London’s Hyde Park saw the iconic Stevie Wonder bring down the curtain on the 2025 edition of the BST festival. With a performance that was nothing short of transcendent, Wonder left no doubt as to why he remains one of the highest-selling artists of all time.
Under the golden hues of the summer sky, 65,000 fans gathered at the Great Oak Stage to witness a living legend deliver a masterclass in soul, funk, and timeless artistry.
Earlier support from Ezra Collective lit up the stage with their infectious Afrobeat-infused jazz. Their set was a celebration of rhythm and resilience, with drummer Femi Koleoso sharing a touching story about seeing Wonder perform in a full-circle moment that added emotional depth to their performance. They had the crowd dancing in the sunshine, perfectly priming them for the legend to come.
And from the moment he took to the stage, Wonder set the tone for a performance steeped in reverence, unity and musical excellence. He drew attention to his striking white tunic adorned with the images of Marvin Gaye and John Lennon before reiterating a message of love and togetherness. He stressed to the crowd that “love is far bigger” than the anger that plagues the world.
What followed was a mammoth set which covered numerous classics that’s span across the decades of Wonder’s career and inspirations. An early cover of “Imagine” saw a powerful sing-along from the crowd as he aimed to start the show with the message he had proclaimed.
Switching gears, Wonder and his band launched into a revitalising cover of “As If You Read My Mind”. From the first few songs, it was immediately clear that Wonder’s voice was still as emotive and rich as ever, soaring effortlessly while his piano and harmonica solos dazzled with virtuosity. A touching cover of the country staple “You Are My Sunshine” led into the smooth R&B pop of “You Are the Sunshine of My Life” to the audience's delight. From there the bona fide classics just kept coming. With renditions of “Signed, Sealed, Delivered I’m Yours” and “Don’t You Worry ‘bout a Thing” sounding tailor-made for the hazy evening sunset.
Throughout, Wonder was joined by members from his backing band, family members and a surprise appearance by Corinne Bailey Rae who led a spirited version of Sly and the Family Stone’s “Everybody Is A Star”.
As the evening progressed, Wonder’s set became a communal celebration of revelry. Jubilant choruses of “I Just Called to Say I Love You” and “Isn’t She Lovely” rang out around the park, while the irrepressible anthem “Superstition” brought the house down with its tight groove and electrifying energy. Riding off of this, the finale featuring “As” and “Another Star” served as a vibrant crescendo that left fans buzzing long after the last note faded.
Stevie Wonder’s BST Hyde Park finale was exceptional. A musical masterclass under summer skies allowed the message of unity to permeate the audience. Creating an undeniable feeling of togetherness, and imparting lasting memories on those in attendance.
STEVIE WONDER CLOSES 2025’S AMERICAN EXPRESS PRESENTS… BST LONDON 2025
PICTURE BY: BETHANMILLERCO