US singer Stevie Wonder to be UN peace messenger

Wonder, 59, who was born blind, has recorded more than 30 US top 10 hits and has won 25 Grammy Awards, the most ever won by a male solo artist.

He is also recognised for his support for civil and human rights issues. He spearheaded a campaign to make Martin Luther King Day a national holiday in the US. He also advocated for ending apartheid in South Africa.

"His career as a recording artist has reflected his concern with humanitarian issues. He has written, produced and/or performed songs relative to charities in support of disabilities, aids, cancer, diabetes, hunger and homelessness, domestic abuse and many other causes on behalf of children and adults," the UN said in a statement.

"Stevie Wonder is a true inspiration to young people all over the world about what can be achieved despite any physical limitations," the statement quoted UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon as saying ahead of the official nomination ceremony Thursday.

Stevie Wonder will join 10 other UN Messengers of Peace, including actors George Clooney and Michael Douglas, Brazilian novelist Paolo Coelho and French-born American virtuoso cellist Yo-Yo Ma.