John Legend, an award-winning artist known for his music, coaching on The Voice, and advocacy work, shares his unique journey from corporate consultant to music superstar. He discusses his innovative approach to songwriting, including the intriguing concept of 'mumbling' to discover new melodies. John reflects on the emotional depths of parenting and the creation of his children’s album, emphasizing music's role in addressing complex themes. He also dives into how AI can influence creativity and the importance of generosity in the artistic process.
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Quick takeaways
John Legend illustrates that balancing practical responsibilities with artistic ambitions can create opportunities for success in the music industry.
He emphasizes the role of improvisation in songwriting, showing that spontaneity can lead to genuine creativity and resonant melodies.
Deep dives
The Journey of Career Pivots
John Legend's transition from management consulting to music exemplifies the value of practicality in career choices. Initially, he balanced a day job with his artistic ambitions due to financial constraints and the obligations of student loans. This method allowed him to maintain stability while creating opportunities in the music industry, as he networked extensively in New York, leading to significant connections within the music scene. His experience highlights that pursuing passions doesn’t always require abandoning practical responsibilities, as maintaining a stable foundation can bolster eventual success.
Creative Processes in Songwriting
John Legend emphasizes the importance of improvisation in his songwriting, starting most pieces by mumbling melodies before developing lyrics. This method allows him to create catchy tunes that feel natural, as he focuses on producing melodies that resonate with both him and his audience. An example of this process is his hit song 'Ordinary People,' which evolved from attempts to craft a track for another artist before he decided to keep it for himself. This approach illustrates that genuine creativity often stems from spontaneity and the adaptability to seize moments of inspiration.
Embracing Challenges in Parenting
John Legend and his wife, Chrissy Teigen, navigate the complexities of parenting, particularly following their son's diagnosis with type 1 diabetes. They emphasize the importance of open communication regarding challenges, allowing their child to express feelings about his condition while providing support. This focus on empathy rather than immediate solutions showcases a more nuanced approach to parenting, where understanding and listening are just as critical as problem-solving. It reflects a broader commitment to being present during struggles and ensuring their child feels both seen and heard.
The Interplay of Creativity and Generosity
John Legend advocates for a philanthropic mindset intertwined with creative pursuits, emphasizing that sharing knowledge and skills precedes traditional notions of success. He believes in the power of giving as a pathway to well-being, suggesting that acts of generosity can lead to fulfillment, even if they lack immediate financial returns. This viewpoint challenges the common mindset that prioritizes personal gain before giving back, promoting the idea that contributions to the community should start early in one’s career. By emphasizing relational and social connections through generosity, he underscores the importance of cultivating a supportive environment in both artistic and personal realms.
Before John Legend was coaching The Voice and winning Emmys, Grammys, Oscars and Tonys, he was a twenty-something consultant living in Boston. In this episode, John sits down with Adam to share how he hustled from the boardroom to the studio and crafted the creative career that led him to the top of the entertainment industry. John also talks about how he maintains creative vision at the core of his business, and why family and advocacy work are vital to his artistic mission.
Available transcripts for ReThinking can be found at go.ted.com/RWAGscripts
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