John Legend Celebrates ‘Get Lifted’ 20th Anniversary at Ravinia

On a beautiful summer night, August 23, 2025, Ravinia was alive with anticipation as John Legend took the stage to celebrate a major milestone: 20 years of his groundbreaking debut album, “Get Lifted.” Dressed in an all-white suit, Legend radiated energy and confidence, commanding the night with a presence that proved his music remains as timeless as ever.

From Church Roots to Global Stardom

Many first encountered John Legend’s soulful voice through Kanye West’s “The College Dropout,” where he was introduced and famously nicknamed “Legend” by poet J. Ivy. At Ravinia, Legend masterfully wove storytelling into his performance, sharing intimate details about his musical beginnings. He spoke of his early love for music nurtured in church and the profound influence of his parents, honoring them with a moving rendition of “Precious Lord.”

Legend also recounted his time in Scranton, playing piano at a local church, and how a friend introduced him to Lauryn Hill. This connection led to a memorable drive to Newark, New Jersey, where he ended up contributing to Hill’s seminal album, “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill.” He reminded the audience of his appearance on track 13, a detail that perfectly set the stage for his soulful cover of Hill’s “Everything Is Everything,” bridging his past with the present moment.

A Philadelphia Soul Revival and Surprise Guests

The concert also paid homage to the vibrant Philadelphia music scene of the early 2000s, a period that significantly shaped Legend’s artistry. He treated the audience to a medley celebrating Philly soul artists like Bilal, The Roots, Jill Scott, and Musiq Soulchild, immersing the crowd in the nostalgic vibe of that era and connecting his personal journey to a broader neo-soul movement.

Adding an electrifying surprise, rapper Common joined Legend on stage midway through the show. Together, they performed “They Say” and the powerful, Grammy-winning anthem “Glory,” a song that has become a cultural touchstone for justice and hope. Their undeniable chemistry made this performance a standout moment of the night.

Intimate Stories and Timeless Melodies

Legend’s ability to seamlessly transition between commanding showman and intimate storyteller was a hallmark of the concert. After performing “Ordinary People,” he shared poignant details about his parents’ relationship, explaining how their marriage, divorce, remarriage, and subsequent divorce inspired the song. This personal narrative added even more emotional depth to the already moving track. He followed this with “It Don’t Have to Change,” a song that speaks to the enduring importance of family and love amidst life’s shifts, beautifully balancing the more upbeat moments of the night.

As the concert reached its crescendo, Legend delivered beloved fan favorites like “Save Room,” “Green Light,” and “So High.” The energy remained consistently high, with each note and lyric feeling deliberate, evoking not just memories but a shared history. By the time he closed the show, the audience was on its feet, feeling part of something larger—a celebration of music, history, and the stories that connect us all.

Two decades after the release of “Get Lifted,” John Legend reaffirmed that his voice, his music, and his presence continue to resonate powerfully. Under the summer sky at Ravinia, he offered more than just a concert; it was a living history lesson steeped in soul.