John Legend

John Roger Stephens, professionally known as John Legend, emerged from a modest upbringing in Springfield, Ohio to become one of the most influential R&B and pop artists of his generation. From an early age he was immersed in music—his father drummed, his mother sang in the church choir, and his grandmother played the organ—instilling a deep love for the piano that began at four and a vocal talent nurtured in the church choir by age seven. After excelling academically, skipping two grades and graduating salutatorian, he entered the University of Pennsylvania where he led the a‑capella group Counterparts and earned a magna cum laude degree in English. While still a student, he caught the ear of Lauryn Hill and contributed piano work to her iconic album, an experience that propelled him into the professional music sphere. Legend’s early career saw him working behind the scenes for artists like Jay‑Z and Alicia Keys, before Kanye West signed him to GOOD Music, where his debut album Get Lifted (2004) earned three Grammy Awards and cemented his status as a breakout star. Subsequent releases—Once Again, Evolver, and the chart‑topping Love in the Future—showcased his versatility, ranging from soulful ballads to funk‑infused tracks, while his single “All of Me” became a worldwide anthem, topping the Billboard Hot 100 and achieving diamond certification.

Beyond music, Legend has distinguished himself as a multifaceted entertainer and philanthropist. He earned an Academy Award and Golden Globe for “Glory” from the film Selma, a Tony as co‑producer of Jitney, and an Emmy for his work on The Voice, completing the EGOT in 2018. His acting credits include starring as Jesus Christ in NBC’s live Jesus Christ Superstar and appearing in films such as Soul Men. A committed activist, he founded the Show Me Campaign, serves on several education and humanitarian boards, and publicly champions criminal‑justice reform and women's rights. Married to model Chrissy Teigen since 2013, the couple shares four children, and Legend continues to influence both culture and charitable causes through music, mentorship, and public advocacy.