Happy Birthday to ya!

The United Nations turned 67 yesterday, October 24th, and who better to wish the UN many blessings on their big day then the great Stevie Wonder. The UN Messenger of Peace rocked the mic for over three-hours at the Great Assembly Hall in New York City during a 20-song set that brought the crowd to their feet but it was Wonder’s message of peace throughout the night that truly brought the audience to higher ground.

“I am so thankful that The Almighty gave me the honor of being blind,” Wonder said onstage. “Now many would say, ‘How can he say that?’ I can say it because through being blind, I’ve been blessed with being able to really see people, not for the color of their skin, not for what they wear, not how they looked at me or what impression they had of me, but by the spirit in their hearts. The reality is, I believe that when you are without an ability, you are given even greater ability. I’m not saying that you should all poke your eyes out.  But it is time that you grow up and grow out of hatred.”

Before Estelle, Wyclef Jean, Elle Varner, Malcolm-Jamal Warner, Freddie Jackson, CEO and Chairman of BET Debra Lee and more performers hit the stage, CentricTV.com was behind-the-scenes, chatting it up with all the stars on the red carpet as they reflected on peace, love and Stevie Wonder.

Help the UN blow out 67 candles below and for photos from the 2012 UN Anniversary Concert click through our exclusive photo gallery here.

http://www.vimeo.com/52176094

TAGS: Debra Lee, Elle Varner, Estelle, Freddie Jackson, Janelle Monae, malcom Jamal Warner, STEVIE WONDER, wyclef jean