If you've watched the Grammy Awards over the past few years or simply listened to the Top 40, odds are you have enjoyed some of John Legend's original hooks and lyrics. John is a neo-soul singer and renowned pianist with a soothing voice, fetching looks and unfettering charm. He says that he knew at a very young age that he would be entertaining audiences and that's exactly what he's been doing since the tender age of 5. The Springfield, Ohio, native (born John Stephens on December 28, 1978) began singing before speaking, captivating others around him with the rich texture of his voice. It started with his grandmother teaching him how to play gospel and classical piano and transitioned into a lucrative career for this child prodigy. Mr. Legend has a knack for making things happen in his life and that is quite apparent by looking at a list of his accomplishments. He graduated high school as Salutatorian, stole the title of prom king and was elected president of the student council. He then attended the University of Pennsylvania where he majored in English with an emphasis on African literature. In his spare time, he also directed a coed a cappella group called Counterpartsù.As luck would have it, his college roommate, was Kanye West's cousin, Devon Harris. Introductions were made and the two became instant friends and collaborators. Thanks to Kanye's assistance, John exploded onto the music scene and quickly found himself topping the Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart.John has worked with a variety of amazing talent and has ushered 2 soul-soothing studio albums. His first was Get Liftedù (2004) followed by his latest entitled titled, Once Againù in October of 2006.John was the main topic of conversation at the 2006 Grammy Awards where he collected top honors for Best New Artist, Best R&B Album and Best R&B Male Vocal Performance.In 2007, he walked away with Best Male R&B Vocal Performance, Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group and in addition, acquired the Best R&B/Soul Single at the Soul Train Awards.John's incredible virtuosity ensures that he will become a legend himself. He's already worked with Alicia Keys, Black Eyed Peas, Janet Jackson, Lauren Hill, and Jay-Z yet it seems as if it is only the beginning.Mr. Legend admits to watching Michael Jackson on television as a child and thinking to himself, Why can't I do that?ù Well, he certainly followed in his footsteps by creating incredible compositions and heartfelt grooves. As a matter of fact, it is rumored that he will be working on Michael Jackson's new album, scheduled to be released for late 2007.Young Hollywood, pay attention to this handsome, debonair artist. His music strikes a fine balance between hip-hop, soul and alternative which attracts a large demographic that appreciates a true prodigy when they hear one.

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