John Legend: The People’s Coach

After taking a break last season, John Legend is back for his tenth season on the voice. He has endeared fans with his kind demeanor and emotional reaction to singers performances .
In the first part of season 25 finale John was brought to tears when contestant Bryan Olesen sang “Beautiful Things”
The song reminded John of the death of his mother. He said on USA Today, “I was so moved by it because it feels like when you’re singing it that you know what it means to lose something,” a teary-eyed Legend said.”I really felt it.”
John’s reactions to performances have made him one of the most popular judges on the voice. He returns to win this season.

NBCThe Voice Team John Legend

The history behind the coach

Fans have often asked how John  Legend picked his stage name. John has spoken about receiving his name from his college friends. While recording in a studio in college, one of John’s colleagues called him legend as a nickname because he sounded like an old soul music R and B legend. His college roomate was Kanye Wests cousin so he also started calling himself the legend because of his old soul sound. 

John told Jimmy Fallon that he contemplated whether calling himself legend would be too “bold“ because he had not yet had any hits and did not want to appear too arrogant. Then he decided that he was going to work hard, make his best music and live up to his name. John’s college friends not only gave him the name of legend but they connected John to some serious industry musicians. Lauryn Hill, Alicia Keys, and Jay-Z.

John Legend continued to develop connections in the industry and eventually became a legend and inspires others with his music. His accomplishments have lead him to be the perfect coach for the voice. He continues to develop young artists to become their best version of themselves in the music industry. 

Written by: Tricia Patras