He has performed for millions of fans around the globe. But R&B sensation John Legend says his favourite fans are without a doubt us.
“South African fans are the best. They have been so supportive of my career since the beginning and the energy at my shows in South Africa is always incredible,” Legend told Independent Media from his home in Los Angeles.
The 10-time Grammy Award and multiplatinum artist will be returning to the country for his Darkness and Light Global Tour next month and will perform in Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town.
His tour kicks off in Johannesburg on November 4 and finishes in Cape Town on November 10.
What is it about South Africa that keeps you coming back?
I love performing in South Africa. It’s a beautiful country and the South Africans are my best fans in the world. Johannesburg is also my favourite city to perform in in the world. There is just so much love and energy at my shows.
What are some of your favourite things to do while visiting?
South Africa has such a rich culture. We love the food and the nightlife. We’ve met so many wonderful people and we’ve also enjoyed the natural beauty and the wildlife.
Before your very first visit to South Africa, what were your expectations of the country and were you surprised at all by the number of fans you had here?
I didn’t really know what to expect. I came to South Africa with an open mind.
I must say I was pleasantly surprised by the number of fans I had in South Africa
and by their enthusiasm. The
support from the beginning
was more intense than any place in the world.
Who are some of your favourite composers,
musicians and bands from the past and present?
Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Curtis Mayfield, Nina Simone, Aretha Franklin and Nat King Cole.
Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you
emotionally?
Nina Simone singing I Loves You Porgy. It’s such a beautiful song.
What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?
I’m calm under pressure.
What is your most valued material possession?
I don’t really get too hung up on material possessions. I guess our house in LA would be my most valued possession. But I’m much more concerned about the people I love who live in it.
Who were you, or would you be, nervous to meet?
I was nervous to meet Prince the first time.
If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?
I’ve been on the road for quite a while. I wish I could be home with my wife and daughter. It’s been too long.
How would you describe your perfect day?
Great food, great music, great wine and spending it with the ones I love.
Watching a good football or basketball game wouldn’t hurt either.
Which three musicians — dead or alive — would you love to collaborate with?
Nina Simone, Curtis Mayfield and Beyoncé.