Unveiling the Legend: John Legend's Journey to Iconic Status

Have you ever wondered how the iconic John Legend got his stage name? Legend's journey to becoming a legend began in the early 2000s when he collaborated with Kanye West. In the first episode of Amazon Studios' Word+Music series, premiering on Nov. 30 on MGM+, the Grammy-winning artist delves into his childhood, creative process, relationship with his wife Chrissy Teigen, and the origin of his stage name while performing some of his hit songs.

For over two decades, Legend went by his birth name, John Roger Stephens. However, during his work on Kanye West's debut album The College Dropout in 2004, a spoken-word artist named J. Ivy suggested calling him "the legend" after witnessing his musical talent. Embracing the moniker, Legend decided to adopt the stage name John Legend, despite initial doubts about living up to it.

To use the name professionally, Legend had to trademark it due to a potential trademark infringement with a rockabilly musician named Johnny Legend. After negotiating an agreement with Johnny Legend, John Legend signed with Columbia Records in May 2004 and released his debut album I Get Lifted later that year, marking a new chapter in his career.

The Words + Music series, a spin-off of the Audible series, offers a unique platform for musicians to share their songs and stories through captivating visuals and tech-enhanced stages. Co-produced by Gunpowder & Sky, the series aims to redefine music storytelling by combining music, performance, and imagery in a powerful and emotional way.

Don't miss the premiere of Words + Music exclusively on MGM+ on Nov. 30 with the John Legend episode. Subsequent episodes featuring Sheryl Crow, Elvis Costello, and Alanis Morissette will follow in December. Join John Legend as he shares his musical journey and the story behind his legendary stage name.