Photo: Getty
  /  11.18.2022

John Legend continues to prove his icon status and gets candid about his new Audible series, “Living Legend” — which comes after his 10th studio album — in this exclusive chat with REVOLT.

The audiobook details the music icon’s humble beginnings as a nerdy, homeschooled kid in the church choir before he blossomed into the Grammy-winning, platinum-selling, genre-pushing pop star we love today. The series was recorded live at Ronnie Scott’s legendary jazz club in London and features exclusive original performances, including covers of Paul Simon’s “Bridge Over Troubled Water” and Stevie Wonder’s “Ribbon in the Sky,” as well as Legend’s mega-hits “Glory,” “Used to Love U,” and “All of Me,” among others. The project falls under Audible’s Words + Music Series, which aims to defy tradition with an innovative and unprecedented approach to musical storytelling and personal expression. 

In this exclusive interview, the “All Of Me” singer discusses the defining moments in his career that solidified his legendary status, why he gave the spotlight to women in Hip Hop and R&B on his new album, what he misses most about working with Kanye West after their unfortunate fallout, and much more.

While creating your audiobook, “Living Legend,” what moment in your career confirmed that you are one? 

It was necessary to tell my story and reflect on what led me to where I am in my life — all the challenges, the moments along the way, and how I met and overcame these different obstacles. When Audible reached out to me, I found this to be an excellent way of storytelling because it’s listenable, and you can use music, words, or all of the above to tell a story

Who would you consider a living legend in today’s music era?

While there are quite a few, I recommend Kendrick Lamar and Beyoncé because their recent albums were well-made. I respect artists that put a lot of care, thought, and intention into their work and do it at such a high level.

I feel like you’re a “Cozy” stan. Or, are you a “Cuff It” kind of man? 

I like the one where you say, “We gon’ get f**ked up tonight,” so “Cuff It” (laughs). 

Which artist should make an Audible Original about their career, and what would you want to learn?

Any artist I love should create an original because it’s a great way to tell your story and incorporate music. We know a little about people once they tell their stories — we see a packaged version when they release a project. 

On your new album, Legend, there was an influx of female artists you gave the spotlight to, including Saweetie, Rapsody, Jazmine Sullivan, and Muni Long. Why was it crucial for you to give the ladies space on the album?

I’m a fan of all the women — they add so much energy, creativity, and spark to the album. I’m fortunate to call on these unique, talented women to make my project more beautiful. I had a different texture and feminine energy, which improved the project. 

This album seems like a personal love letter to Chrissy Teigen, especially with tracks like “Love,” “Wonder Woman,” and “Nervous.” As you reflect on your marriage, what is the one thing that makes you fall in love with her daily?

We grow, parent, and go through challenges together, strengthening us and renewing our love — you hear about some of that on Legend

Next August, it will be 10 years since you released Love In The Future. Easily one of your strongest projects, what did you love most about that album era? 

Did you know that Virgil Abloh designed the album cover? He was a creative director for Kanye West then, and Kanye executive produced [that] album too. I loved where we were creatively at that time. I wrote “All Of Me” during [that] time, which became the biggest song of my career. While the album will celebrate its 10th anniversary next year, Chrissy and I will celebrate our 10th anniversary a month later. The title was about embarking on this new love journey, and we made something beautiful to commemorate that time. What I love about being an artist and making an album during a specific period is it reflects where you are at that moment — so when you go back and listen, it reminds you of that distinct period in your life. 

You spoke to XXL in 2013 and shared how Kanye’s leadership in developing Love In The Future made the project one of your best. Your relationship with West has changed since then. Is there anything from that friendship you miss the most? 

Alot of us miss the old Kanye in more ways than one. I thought we created something beautiful, and if you listen to the Audible Original, you’ll hear how integral he’s been to my entire story. I wouldn’t be where I am without his collaboration and belief in me — us believing in each other early in our careers. It’s sad and disappointing to see where he is right now and what he’s been saying — again, my story isn’t my story without collaboration and interactions over the years, so I speak about it. 

You’re on “The Voice,” and scouting talent is more effortful than many think. How do you do it? Any notes for up-and-coming R&B artists to reach living legend status? 

The show begins with the power of the voice — we don’t focus on anything besides what we hear, along with the power and the energy that comes from the singer. When I listen to it, I hit the buzzer and turn around quickly because I can hear it in their tone and expressiveness if their the kind of artists I want to work with. Going from being a great voice to an artist isn’t always easy because it involves tapping into what makes you unique, what makes your story interesting, and how you translate that story into the music. It’s about knowing who you are and translating that into your creative process. 

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE

View More

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE

View More

Trending

Walmart has everything you need for the tech enthusiast on your shopping list

Check out our gift guide that highlights some of our favorite Walmart finds in time for Black Friday.

  /  11.10.2023

5 things you need to know about the 2023 Billboard Music Awards

“REVOLT Black News” correspondent Kennedy Rue counts down the top five moments from the 2023 Billboard Music Awards, including surprising wins, historic firsts, and dope performances. Sponsored by Amazon.

  /  11.20.2023

Walmart's HBCU Black and Unlimited Tour kicks off at Central State University

On Oct. 10, Walmart unveiled a brand new, state of the art creative studio on the campus of Central State University.

  /  11.14.2023

The Walmart HBCU Black & Unlimited Tour visited Mississippi Valley State University

The Walmart HBCU Black & Unlimited Tour made its final stop at Mississippi Valley State University (MVSU) and left a lasting impact on students and alumni alike.

  /  11.22.2023

Walmart has the home essentials for everyone on your holiday shopping list

Below, our gift guide highlights some of our favorite Walmart finds for anyone in need of a home refresh.

  /  11.24.2023

Walmart continues HBCU Black & Unlimited Tour during lively Virginia State University stop

After unveiling their state of the art creative studio on the campus of Central State University, Walmart brought the HBCU Black & Unlimited Tour to Virginia State University (VSU) on Oct. 13.

  /  11.14.2023

Walmart HBCU Black & Unlimited Tour brings attention and wisdom to North Carolina Central University

On Oct. 17, Walmart brought the third stop of the HBCU Black & Unlimited Tour to North Carolina Central University (NCCU).

  /  11.15.2023

Groovey Lew on hip hop style, Johnell Young's industry secrets, BGS salon's wig mastery and more | 'Black Girl Stuff'

Fashion King Groovey Lew on masterminding hip-hop’s most iconic looks. Actor Johnell Young reveals the secret to breaking into the entertainment industry. Celebrity hairstylist Dontay Savoy and got2B ambassador Tokyo Stylez are in the BGS Salon with the perfect wig install. Plus, comedian Lauren Knight performs.

  /  11.15.2023

Pheelz talks expressing himself through music & his biggest inspirations | 'On In 5'

On this all-new episode of “On In 5,” multitalented Nigerian artist Pheelz opens up about waiting for his opportunity to fully express himself through music, his inspirations and emotions, and the musical icons he grew up admiring. Watch!

  /  07.11.2023

Kareem Cook talks growing up in The Bronx, studying at Duke & networking | 'The Blackprint with Detavio Samuels'

On this all-new episode of “The Blackprint with Detavio Samuels,” the host and REVOLT CEO sits down with Kareem Cook. Throughout the introspective episode, Cook talks growing up in The Bronx, studying at Duke and being nervous to be in the South at the time, network vs. education, taking advantage of your opportunities, and connecting with Debbie Allen. Watch!

  /  07.10.2023

Tiffany Haddish on therapy, wild fan interactions & the upcoming 'Haunted Mansion' movie | 'The Jason Lee Show'

On this all-new episode of “The Jason Lee Show,” the one and only Tiffany Haddish sits for a must-watch conversation about wild interactions with fans, her new movie ‘Haunted Mansion,’ bringing her therapist on dates, and being present. Watch the hilarious interview here.

  /  07.12.2023

BNXN talks leaving IT for music, linking with Wizkid, going viral & new album | 'On In 5'

For this all-new episode of “On In 5,” singer-songwriter BNXN discusses his journey from IT to music, finding his voice and originality, linking up with Wizkid for their hits “Mood” and “Many Ways,” and what fans can expect from him this year — including a new album. Watch the full episode here!

  /  08.08.2023

From city lots to lush gardens: The power of urban farming with Karen Washington

This is the inspiring story of Karen Washington, a pioneering urban farmer who has been revolutionizing urban spaces by transforming them into vibrant community gardens and educational hubs. Sponsored by State Farm.

  /  11.17.2023

Investing in stocks in a recession | 'Maconomics'

Host Ross Mac provides useful advice for preparing your personal finances in the event of a recession. He emphasizes the importance of budgeting properly, building an emergency fund, and maintaining discipline when investing.

  /  11.21.2023

Walmart's HBCU Black and Unlimited Tour kicked off at Central State University

In October, Walmart unveiled a brand new, state of the art creative studio on the campus of Central State University. The HBCU located in Wilberforce, OH was the first stop on Walmart’s Black and Unlimited HBCU Tour.

  /  11.28.2023

Madam DA Fani Willis proclaims, “A lie has been told on African American men”

“Every time I’m in trouble, it’s been Black men that have come to my aid,” Madam DA Fani Willis said at REVOLT WORLD while speaking on the stereotype that they are not dependable or worth dating.

  /  10.11.2023

Lauren London sparks conversation on how Black parents unintentionally give kids negative outlook on money

At the live taping of “Assets Over Liabilities” at REVOLT WORLD, Lauren London opened up about how witnessing the financial decisions adults made during her childhood fueled her outlook on money. 

  /  10.26.2023

Black media leaders stress the space's importance because we're always antagonists in mainstream's storytelling

“I definitely feel those ‘heavier is the crown’ moments. But I also believe that Black entrepreneurs are uniquely positioned to be successful in the future,” Detavio Samuels said at AfroTech.

  /  11.03.2023

Dig In & Drink Up | 'Bet on Black'

In this new episode of ‘Bet on Black,’ food and beverage take center stage as aspiring Black entrepreneurs from It’s Seasoned, Black Farmer Box, and Moors Brewing Co. present their business ideas to judges with mentorship from Melissa Butler. Watch here!

  /  11.15.2023

Machel Montano opens up about life as a child star, new music, and exciting business moves

In an exclusive interview with REVOLT, Machel Montano dove into his musical journey, childhood stardom, and an exciting new chapter in business.

  /  11.03.2023
View More
Revolt - New Episodes