If there was an unseen presence at Stevie Wonders free outdoor show at the Montreal International Jazz Festival last night, it was that of a fellow Motown child star. Wonder was brought in to launch the festivals 30th anniversary with a bang. But before singing a note, he walked out on the General Motors stage, accompanied by his daughter, Aisha Morris, and somberly addressed the audience.

I want for us to celebrate the life and the legacy of Michael Jackson, he said, before criticizing gossip mongers and vultures who have exploited the late singer and focused on his darker moments. We can continue to keep the life and spirit of this mans music alive forever, Wonder said before opening a generous two-and-a-half hour show with I Cant Help It, the song he co-wrote on the Jackson classic Off the Wall.