John Legend explores new vocal style on album produced by Pharrell Williams

John Legend, a Los Angeles-based musician and EGOT winner, has released a new album titled 'Muse' that features a different vocal approach. According to the Associated Press, Legend dials back his usual powerhouse vocals on some tracks, opting for a more conversational delivery at the suggestion of producer Pharrell Williams.

The 16-track album marks Legend's first full collaboration with Pharrell Williams after more than 20 years of friendship. Most of the recording took place at Williams' studio located inside Louis Vuitton's Paris headquarters. The project was inspired by Legend's appearance on the Clipse song 'The Birds Don’t Sing,' which motivated Williams to create an album centered around Legend's voice.

Jay-Z, another prominent figure in the music industry, once praised Legend by telling him, 'You’re our voice.' This new vocal style represents a departure from Legend's signature piano-driven ballads like 'All of Me' and 'Ordinary People,' which have been a defining part of his career for over two decades.

In addition to the album, Legend is working on his first original stage score for the off-Broadway musical 'Imitation of Life,' set to open at The Shed in New York in December. He expressed a desire to continue challenging himself and making each project his best work.

This album and upcoming musical score highlight Legend's ongoing creative evolution and commitment to pushing his artistic boundaries, as reported by the Associated Press.