Quick Wiki
- Full Name John Roger Stephens
- Birth Date Dec 28, 1978
- Age 46 Years, 1 Months
- Ethnicity African-American
- Nationality American
- Birthplace Springfield, Ohio
- Occupation Singer-Songwriter-Pianist-Record producer-Actor
- Parents Phyllis Elaine, Ronald Lamar Stephens
- Mother Phyllis Elaine
- Father Ronald Lamar Stephens
- Wife Chrissy Teigen
- Height 1.75 m
- Net Worth $100 million
John Legend | Biography
John Legend is a renowned musician and songwriter, known for his hit songs and marriage to model Chrissy Teigen.
Who is John Legend?
John Legend, born John Roger Stephens on December 28, 1978, in Springfield, Ohio, is a celebrated musician and songwriter known for his soulful voice and impactful lyrics. He rose to fame with his debut album, *Get Lifted*, released in 2004, which garnered three Grammy Awards, including Best New Artist. Legend's collaborations with prominent artists such as Alicia Keys, Kanye West, and Common have solidified his place in the music industry. His hit single "All of Me," from the album *Love in the Future*, became a wedding favorite and showcased his ability to connect emotionally with listeners.
Beyond his musical achievements, Legend has made notable contributions to television and film. He became the youngest person and the first African American man to achieve EGOT status, winning an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony. His performance in *Jesus Christ Superstar Live in Concert* earned him an Emmy Award, adding to his impressive accolades. Legend is also a coach on the popular singing competition *The Voice*, where he has successfully guided contestants to victory. His commitment to social causes, particularly in education reform, reflects his dedication to making a positive impact beyond his artistry.
Early Life and Career
John Legend, born John Roger Stephens on December 28, 1978, in Springfield, Ohio, exhibited musical talent from a young age. His grandmother introduced him to the piano, and he honed his vocal skills by singing in the church choir. Legend's passion for music led him to the University of Pennsylvania, where he not only excelled academically but also directed a co-ed a cappella group. After graduating, he briefly worked at the Boston Consulting Group but continued to pursue his musical dreams by performing in nightclubs across New York City, laying the groundwork for his future success.
Legend's career took a pivotal turn when he met hip-hop artist Kanye West. The two collaborated on demos, which helped Legend gain recognition in the music industry. His big break came in 2004 with the release of his debut album, "Get Lifted," which showcased his R&B prowess and featured the hit single "Ordinary People." The album's success earned him three Grammy Awards, marking the beginning of his ascent to stardom. Legend's ability to blend soulful melodies with contemporary influences quickly established him as a prominent figure in the music scene.
Career Breakthrough: "Get Lifted"
John Legend’s career took a significant leap forward with the release of his debut album, *Get Lifted*, in 2004. This album not only showcased his incredible vocal talent but also featured the hit single “Ordinary People,” which became a defining track for him. Originally written for the Black Eyed Peas, the song's soulful melody and poignant lyrics resonated with audiences, helping the album achieve platinum status. Legend's work on *Get Lifted* earned him three Grammy Awards, including Best R&B Album and Best New Artist, solidifying his place in the music industry and paving the way for future successes.
Following the success of *Get Lifted*, Legend continued to build on his momentum with his sophomore album, *Once Again*, released in 2006. His performances at major events like the Super Bowl and the NBA All-Star Game further elevated his profile as a mainstream artist. The release of *Evolver* in 2008 continued this trend, featuring collaborations that showcased his versatility. Legend's ability to blend R&B with other genres, along with his engaging stage presence, established him as a sought-after performer and collaborator in the music scene, setting the stage for his subsequent projects and accolades.
"Wake Up!" and "Duets"
In 2010, John Legend collaborated with the legendary hip-hop band The Roots to release the album This project was critically acclaimed, showcasing a collection of songs that paid homage to classic soul and R&B. The album featured covers of tracks originally performed by iconic artists such as Marvin Gaye and Nina Simone. Among its standout singles, "Hard Times," written by Curtis Mayfield, resonated deeply with audiences. Legend's original composition "Shine" also gained traction, earning him a Grammy Award for Best R&B Album in 2011, further solidifying his reputation as a versatile and talented artist.
In addition to his musical endeavors, Legend stepped into the realm of reality television with the singing competition in 2012. This show featured him alongside notable artists like Kelly Clarkson, Robin Thicke, and Jennifer Nettles, where they coached and performed with aspiring singers. Legend's involvement in allowed him to showcase his mentorship skills while also connecting with a new generation of talent. His dual roles as a coach and performer highlighted his commitment to uplifting others in the music industry, reinforcing his status as a multifaceted artist dedicated to both his craft and the growth of emerging musicians.
Acclaim for "All of Me" and "Glory"
John Legend's 2013 album, *Love in the Future*, marked a significant milestone in his career with the release of the hit single "All of Me." This heartfelt ballad, dedicated to his wife Chrissy Teigen, resonated deeply with audiences and quickly climbed to the top of the charts. "All of Me" showcased Legend's soulful vocals and emotional depth, solidifying his status as a leading figure in contemporary R&B. The song's success was reflected in its widespread acclaim, earning multiple nominations and becoming a wedding favorite, further embedding Legend's artistry in popular culture.
In addition to "All of Me," Legend's collaboration with rapper Common on the song "Glory" from the 2014 film *Selma* garnered significant recognition. The poignant track, which addresses themes of civil rights and social justice, won numerous awards, including an Academy Award for Best Original Song and a Golden Globe. Legend and Common used their acceptance speeches to highlight ongoing social issues, emphasizing the song's relevance beyond the film. "Glory" not only showcased Legend's versatility as an artist but also his commitment to using music as a platform for change, further enhancing his legacy in the industry.
"The Voice" Coach
John Legend joined the popular singing competition series *The Voice* as a coach in late summer 2018, alongside fellow coaches Adam Levine, Blake Shelton, and Kelly Clarkson. His debut season, Season 16, was marked by his unique approach to mentoring contestants, bringing a blend of musical expertise and personal connection to the role. Legend's coaching style emphasized emotional storytelling and authenticity, encouraging participants to express their true selves through their performances. His efforts paid off when he guided contestant Maelyn Jarmon to victory, making him the first African American man to win the competition.
Legend returned for Season 17 in the fall of 2019, continuing to build on his reputation as a supportive and inspiring mentor. Throughout his time on the show, he showcased not only his musical talent but also his commitment to uplifting emerging artists. Legend's presence on *The Voice* has further solidified his status as a multifaceted entertainer, blending his roles as a musician, coach, and advocate for aspiring singers. His contributions have helped elevate the show's dynamic, making it a platform for diverse voices and innovative performances.
John Legend: Wife, Kids and Share Memories
John Legend, 45, celebrated his family and music with a heartfelt Instagram post on August 30. The singer shared adorable photos featuring his four children — Luna, 8, Miles, 6, Esti, 19 months, and Wren, 14 months — along with his wife, Chrissy Teigen.
The post coincided with the release of Legend's children's album, My Favorite Dream, which he revealed is "completely inspired by my wife and our babies."
The snapshots capture cherished moments: a beaming Legend in a pool with all four kids, a playful lift of Miles above the water, and a tender shot of the parents kissing baby Wren on both cheeks. One image shows Legend in a cheetah-print robe, lovingly holding his youngest while his older children gather around.
The post highlights Legend's deep connection to his family and his artistic inspiration from fatherhood.
