John Legend says the relationship drama on his new album, Muse, comes from giving himself room to write beyond his marriage to Chrissy Teigen. With 4 kids and a stable home life, he says sticking to his own day-to-day experience would limit the songs.
“It’s a pretty peaceful home, we don’t argue a lot, we get along well.” — John Legend
Speaking on Heart Breakfast on October 23, the 47-year-old singer said Teigen, 40, is “in charge” at home. Host Jamie Theakston asked whether an argument ever comes with a warning from her: “John, don’t you dare write a song about this!”
Legend laughed and explained that the album’s relationship stories can make their marriage sound much more combative than it is. “We have a great relationship and friendship, so I don’t usually have to put her on the spot and write nasty things about her!” he said.
The couple have been married since 2013, the year he released All of Me. Asked about continuing to raise the bar as a songwriter, Legend joked: “I’ve literally given her all of me already!” He said his music can’t always follow exactly what’s happening in their relationship: “I’ve got to spice it up a little bit in the songs!”
Their family includes daughters Luna, 10, and Esti, 3, and sons Miles, 8, and Wren, 3. Once the kids are asleep, their evenings often come down to sharing the couch and watching TV, from prestige shows to reality series. Legend has a glass of wine; Teigen is sober and chooses another drink.
“After the kids go to bed, that’s what we’re often doing – sitting on the couch together, watching something together,” he said.