John Legend Discusses His Children’s Album ‘My Favorite Dream’ and New Single ‘L-O-V-E’

NEW YORK (AP) — Celebrating the 20th anniversary of his career-launching debut album “Get Lifted,” John Legend is venturing into new territory. On August 30, the R&B-pop singer will release his first children’s album titled “My Favorite Dream” via Republic Records: Kids & Family. The album, produced by Sufjan Stevens, features a diverse range of themes including love, safety, family, and dreams, and consists of nine original tracks, two covers, a solo piano track, and three bonus covers of Fisher-Price songs.

Legend, a father of four with wife Chrissy Teigen, focused on creating music that appeals to both children and their parents. “I wanted the parents to like it,” he told The Associated Press in a phone interview. “I wanted the same standard of quality and musicianship that I would want on any of my records.”

The goal was to ensure the album could stand alone, offering the same depth and artistry as his other works. Bree Bowles, senior vice president at Republic Records: Kids & Family, described the album as having a genuine authenticity that invites listeners into Legend’s family and world.

Legend’s journey into children’s music started on a personal note. He began by playing a song from a Fisher-Price play mat for his daughter Esti. His wife, Chrissy, shared a video of him singing the song on Instagram, prompting fans to suggest he create more children’s music. Inspired by this feedback, Legend took on the challenge of writing and recording an album that includes nine new original songs.

Creating family music required a different approach. Legend related it to his experience writing for Broadway, explaining that it allowed him to step outside of himself and approach music differently. Despite the new direction, the album remains personal to Legend, reflecting his communication with his children and the messages he wants to convey to them.

The album’s production is heavily influenced by Sufjan Stevens. Legend praised Stevens’ ability to create whimsical, character-rich music. “I just felt like it would be the perfect energy for a children’s album,” Legend said. Stevens agreed to the collaboration, adding his unique touch to the project.

The lead single, “L-O-V-E,” features Legend’s wife Chrissy and their older children, Luna and Miles. “I’m so excited to have them on the track,” Legend said. The song encapsulates his philosophy on life, emphasizing the importance of spreading love and treating others with empathy.

Legend’s children played a significant role in inspiring the album. He described how his toddlers’ music classes, filled with playful instruments and singalongs, influenced the album’s upbeat first half. The second half of the album is designed to be more calming, intended for bedtime.

Among the album’s tracks are two notable covers: Bob Marley & the Wailers’ “Three Little Birds” and “You Are My Sunshine.” Legend chose these covers carefully, ensuring his versions offered something fresh. “Three Little Birds” aligns with the album’s encouraging themes, while “You Are My Sunshine” captures the deep love and occasional sadness of family bonds.

Legend hopes listeners feel the love he poured into the album and that families can share these sentiments together. “I think the messages of the album are ones that we like to share with our kids, and I have a feeling that a lot of parents are going to want to share them with their kids too,” he stated.

Source: Associated Press