John Legend is celebrating his major music debut.
Twenty years after his first album Get Lifted elevated the music space, the EGOT winner is marking the anniversary with a global tour.
“Get Lifted introduced me to the world, and now, 20 years later, I get to celebrate that milestone with the people who’ve been riding with me since day one, and with new fans who’ve discovered the album along the way,” Legend, 46, tells PEOPLE exclusively. “Revisiting these songs and sharing them live again has been incredibly special. It’s a moment of celebration and gratitude.”
During the tour, which kicks off in the US on August 23, the artist is honoring “where it started while showing how far we’ve come.” The vibes are quintessentially Legend: “soulful, joyful and definitely a celebration,” he says.
For the musician to get in the proper mood, he turns to his very own skincare brand, Loved01, which he proudly describes as “a beautiful, effective range of self-care products that make people look and feel great at a reasonable price.”
Before showtime, he keeps his grooming routine “fairly simple” because with Loved01 allows him to. “Everything’s made for both face and body, so there’s no overthinking it—and no compromise on quality.”
Legend says that since he launched the brand he’s become “more intentional” about his grooming routine, especially days when he wants to look and feel his best. “When I’m on the road or getting ready to perform, I don’t have time for a dozen steps, but I still want to feel refreshed, confident, and cared for. With Loved01, you don’t need a lot of time.”
Moisturizing is a must, he says. “It keeps my skin healthy and looking its best, even under stage lights.” Beyond grooming products, his other pre-show must have is Throat Coat because the “essential” tea “keeps my voice ready for every show.”
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On performance days, Legend rounds out his routine with other feel-good activities “that help me stay centered no matter where I am,” he says. “I focus on taking care of myself—working out, stretching, meditating, napping and staying hydrated. I don’t talk a lot during the day so I can save my voice for the show. But of course I always connect with my family. It brings me so much joy.”
The artist describes the show as both nostalgic and new. “We’re playing the entire Get Lifted album live, with some new touches, some surprise guests, and plenty of love. We also throw in some of my biggest hits from throughout my career.”
He’s ecstatic to revisit Get Lifted because there are tracks like “I Can Change” and “She Don’t Have To Know” that he hasn’t played in concert in a long time. “It’s so fun bringing them back! They take me back to those early days, but they also hit different now with all the life I’ve lived in the years since,” he shares.
After 20 years of touring, Legend says his favorite thing about the experience is the connection he feels with the audience. “Nothing compares to the energy especially when they’re singing along to every word.”
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Naturally, for the husband and father, the hardest part is being separated from his family. “I miss Chrissy and the kids when I’m gone, but we find ways to stay close no matter where I am.”
Still, Legend is “so grateful for my career and this amazing journey I’ve been on,” and he’s bringing that energy to a city near you. “I’m with my full band, and the energy is electric.”
As Legend himself croons on the title track of the album, “just relax” and enjoy the music and memories. To quote Legend himself, “It’s going to be a beautiful tour!”
But first, go behind the scenes of his getting ready routine.
John Legend’s Self-Care Essentials
Loved01
“Skincare keeps me grounded on tour. It’s not just about how I look, but about taking a moment to care for myself. My skincare routine is all Loved01. Whether it’s the Face + Body Moisturizer that goes everywhere with me or the Soothing Wipes I use to decompress after a show, it helps me reset and feel my best.”
Glow-Getter
John Legend
“When I’m on tour, my routine has to be simple, effective, and easy to stick to — especially with the travel and late nights. I love using the Toning Mist because it keeps my skin looking hydrated with a glowy finish.”
Must-Have Moisturizer
John Legend
“The Face + Body Moisturizer is my favorite Loved01 product and is always with me, especially on tour because it keeps me hydrated no matter the climate. It’s rich, deeply hydrating, and has a whipped texture that makes moisturization feel like a moment of self-care.”
Practice Makes Perfect
Joel Manduke
“If you’re ever backstage before our shows, you’ll hear me and my amazing backing vocalists [From left to right: Keri Lee, Shenice Johnson and Natalie Imani] warming up. We’re usually multi-tasking—making sure the fit and the look are right, stretching to loosen up our bodies—but always singing.”
A Slice of Home on the Road
Joel Manduke
“I always feel at home on the piano. We decided to go with an upright piano instead of a grand piano on this tour. It takes me back to the uprights I used to play at home and church back in my early days in Springfield, Ohio.”
Let’s Get Lifted!
Joel Manduke
“When I’m walking to the stage, it’s the calm before the storm, and the last moment to reflect before I give everything to the crowd.”
Onto the Next One…
Joel Manduke
“We come together as a team to reflect on each performance. There’s always room for improvement and elevation.”
When I’m on tour, having my Throat Coat tea nearby is essential – it’s a must-have that keeps my voice ready for every show.
