John Legend Reveals Urgent Negotiation for Iconic Stage Name
URGENT UPDATE: Just announced, Grammy-winning artist John Legend unveils a surprising backstory behind his iconic stage name. The singer, known for hits like “All of Me,” revealed that he had to negotiate with an adult film producer to secure the name John Legend before launching his music career.
In a recent episode of Words + Music, the 46-year-old artist recounted how he transitioned from John Roger Stephens to John Legend. Legend explained that the name was originally given to him by spoken-word artist J. Ivy during the early days of his career in Chicago. Ivy praised Legend’s talent, exclaiming, “Man, we’re gonna have to call you the legend.”
However, adopting a new name was not straightforward. Legend’s lawyer informed him that to officially use “John Legend,” he needed to trademark the name. To his shock, he discovered that someone else had already claimed it.
“There’s a porn producer—I kid you not—a porn producer who dabbled in rockabilly music, and he went by the name Johnny Legend,” Legend shared. This unique twist posed a potential trademark infringement issue.
Legend detailed the negotiations, stating, “We had to find Johnny Legend, negotiate with him, and cut a mutually exclusive deal stating that he was Johnny Legend, and I was John Legend.” The singer revealed that both agreed not to sue each other, ensuring no overlap in their respective careers.
“I didn’t produce any porn, didn’t make any rockabilly music pretending to be Johnny Legend,” he joked, highlighting the lighthearted nature of their arrangement. This unexpected revelation not only showcases Legend’s determination to establish his brand but also adds a fascinating chapter to his personal narrative.
As news of this negotiation spreads, fans are left with a deeper appreciation for the artistry and effort behind the beloved name. The story serves as a reminder of the intricate paths artists navigate to achieve their dreams.
Stay tuned for more updates on John Legend’s journey and how this unique negotiation has shaped his illustrious career.
