Ron Stephens, Legend’s father, watched the awards ceremony from home and said the Oscar was special despite Legend’s numerous other accomplishments.
“He’s got nine Grammys, but to win the Oscar I believe is probably one of the greatest honors so far that he’s received in the entertainment industry,” Stephens said. “It’s really a wonderful thing for him and, of course, the community was rooting for him. I think everybody felt like we all won.”
Legend’s career initially started in finance, as he joined the Boston Consulting Group after graduating from the University of Pennsylvania. But there was little doubt in the family that he would eventually have most of his success in music, Stephens said.
“John’s been in music ever since he figured out what to do with a piano,” Stephens said. “His passion in music was something he couldn’t just lay down.”
Legend focused on social justice issues during his acceptance speech, pointing out high incarceration rates for African Americans among other issues.
Legend showed signs that he was conscious of social issues even when he was in his early teens, according to his father. Stephens said he was cleaning his home two years ago and ran across an essay Legend had written for a contest during Black History Month. The essay discussed the contributions he wanted to make to the community if he had the opportunity and the platform to do so, Stephens said.
“That performance not only demonstrated his singing skills but his passion for equality,” Stephens said of Legend’s Oscar speech and performance.
Throughout his success, Legend has also remained committed to Springfield, said Otto Larson, a former classmate and senior vice president at the Brower Insurance Agency.
Earlier this month, Legend pitched in to help raise money for the renovation of the auditorium at the former South High School. He offered an opportunity to bid on memorabilia, as well as a chance to win a private concert on the charity website Omaze.com.
The building is currently undergoing renovations to become home to the Greater Springfield CareerConnectED Center.
“I’m impressed with the fact that he wants to give back and take the time to be a part of our community and inspire kids to be involved in the arts,” Larson said.
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