Ambar Ramirez
Words by Ambar Ramirez
On stage we’ve seen him in his nicest suits, angled in perfect lighting with buttery vocals and charming smiles. John Legend has made a name for himself in the limelight, but when the lights dim and the venue empties, who is John Legend? For those attending Legend’s upcoming concert on Saturday, August 24th at Daily’s Place, you’re about to find out.
“This tour is really different and fun for me and is really kind of sobering and revelatory for me too, because I spend a lot of time talking about my story and about all the experiences that made me who I am. Some of the ups and some of the downs, as well as some of the struggles we had in my family,” Legend shared. “But all of it made me who I am. It feels very cathartic in a way, and therapeutic. But also it makes me feel like I’m getting closer to my audience. And I think most of them really appreciate it. They feel closer to me and the show.”
Sure, there’s social media, offering that surface-level connection—and Legend, along with his wife Chrissy Teigen, doesn’t shy away from it. But it’s rare for a celebrity to openly share the hardships and triumphs they’ve faced in a life so publicly consumed by fans. Legend, however, knows how to set himself apart.
“I think a lot of people don’t know what they’re getting into when it comes to the show because it’s not a traditional concert where I’m just kind of going from song to song. I’m talking a lot and telling my story a lot. And even though it’s different than most constantly go to, I think people love that about it,” Legend explained. “A lot of them [are] saying, you know, this is one of their favorite shows ever been to. And I don’t think it’s because I’m so special, but I think it’s because the type of show it is, is really different from anything people normally see in a concert.”
During our phone call, Legend excitedly shared that, for this tour, he wanted to tell a story—his story. He aims to connect on a personal level with his devoted fan base while honoring those who have had a significant impact on his success. Alongside the storytelling, Legend artistically weaves his hit songs into the narrative and even incorporates covers from artists who have influenced his music.
“Some of it’s really funny, some of it’s really revelatory, and it’s stuff people didn’t realize about me,” Legend said. “Song-wise, I love doing the classics like “Ordinary People” and “All of Me”, but I also do some cool covers in the show by artists who have inspired me over the years.”
To ensure that he gives his best performance for every show, Legend has created a routine that keeps him grounded and creatively energized. The key, Legend shared, is getting rest…and eating the same meal before every show.
“I’m always making sure my body is rested and hydrated and I’m warmed up properly so that I can give people my best every night,” Legend shared. “I do a like a 35-minute warmup vocally, [and] I do some stretches and I eat the same meal every show. Roasted chicken and vegetables.”
Despite being a father, a husband, a judge on The Voice, and managing over five businesses and creative projects, Legend pours his heart into every performance. Every element of this show reflects a piece of him. It reflects all of him.
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