John Legend Talks to Us About Love, Family, And His First Grammy Nomination for ‘Best Children’s Music Album’
Like most musicians, John Legend’s artistic trajectory shifted a bit when he became a dad. But what the “All of Me” crooner and father of four probably didn’t foresee was that inspiration for his latest album would come from an unlikely source: his children’s Fisher-Price Kick & Play Piano Gym.
After his wife Chrissy Tiegen suggested he play a version of the toy’s song “Maybe” on his family piano, John did just that, serenading his daughter Etsi, while Tiegen filmed the moment. That spark ignited Legend’s songwriting fire.
The result is My Favorite Dream, a beautifully crafted album that’s as uplifting and whimsical as it is a timely reminder that family (and love) is everything. Produced by songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Sufjan Stevens, the record brims with lush instrumentation and poignant lyrics, inspired by conversations Legend and Tiegen have with their little ones.
“I love seeing life through my kids’ eyes,” Legend tells Rockmommy. “It’s invigorating to be there for them as a guide and supporter as they try to figure out the world.”
“We’re a Family” sets the tone with a message of unity, while “Deep In The Ocean” takes the listener through a cinematic sea adventure, filled with oysters, whales, giant squids, and other nautical magic. The collaborative “L-O-V-E” is possibly my favorite: The track features Tiegen, Stevens, plus Legend’s oldest children Luna and Miles, singing the chorus (Luna also designed the single’s cover art).
While all original songs were written solely by Legend, the album’s two covers are a welcome addition: The rousing, horns-infused rendition of Bob Marley’s “Three Little Birds” and a beautifully orchestrated version of the classic, “You Are My Sunshine.”
We recently caught up with Legend, who is currently on the road with his solo piano show, An Evening with John Legend: A Night of Songs and Stories, to learn more his music and family life now:
Rockmommy: Hi John. You’ve said that you got the idea to create a children’s record after hearing a song (“Maybe”) off a Fisher-Price play mat. How did you approach this record differently than your last album?
John Legend: My Favorite Dream is the first album where I wrote all the original songs alone, with no co-writers. I also have written most of my previous work at the studio. This time, I wanted to write the songs at home, near the source of my inspiration. This is also the first album where I’ve had the privilege of working with Sufjan Stevens. He’s such a gifted artist/musician/arranger/producer and I sought him out for this album after having been a fan of his for a long time. He added his magical touch to all the songs and helped make the album so dreamy and beautiful.
Rockmommy: How do your kids inspire you, not just in your music but in the way you see the world or approach life?
John Legend: I love seeing life through my kids’ eyes. It’s invigorating to be there for them as a guide and supporter as they try to figure out the world. And I was directly inspired for this album by watching my kids learn about music. I love seeing Esti and Wren in their toddler music class, dancing and playing along. The lyrics and themes for this album were inspired by the conversations Chrissy and I have with our kids — the things we say to inspire, comfort and teach them.
Rockmommy: What’s one lesson from your music career that you think has actually made you a better dad?
John Legend: Music has taught me to be a great collaborator, which requires humility, respect, kindness, and good listening. I think those are all really helpful when you’re raising kids with your partner and they’re also great things to try to instill in your kids.
Rockmommy: “L.O.V.E.” — which features your wife Chrissy and kids — is a really cool collaboration! Do your kids love singing and playing piano? Or is there something else they’d love to try that’s different (say, rock n’ roll drums!)?
John Legend: Luna seems to love singing and playing the piano the most. Both she and Miles are taking weekly piano lessons. Luna is also a part of the musical theater program at her elementary school and has a part singing and acting in the school musical. All the kids love music though. They love dancing and singing along and picking songs to play in the car.
Rockmommy: I love the cover of “Three Little Birds!” That’s my son Logan’s favorite song. What inspired you to choose to record that song?
John Legend: Bob Marley’s music is so timeless and beautiful. I love this song because it reminds me of the songs the toddlers dance and play along to in their music class. I wanted this album to capture some of that spirit.
Rockmommy: Your album was nominated for a Grammy for Best Children’s Music Record. What does it mean to have achieved this milestone — and is there a message you hope to impart on your young listeners with this record?
John Legend: I’m so honored and grateful for this nomination in a category I’ve never been a part of before. I’ve gotten to meet so many members of the Children’s Music community throughout this experience, and it’s such a loving, supportive community. I’m truly grateful that they’ve chosen to recognize this work we’ve created and have welcomed me to the community with open arms.
— Marisa Torrieri Bloom, editor and founder, Rockmommy.
