Review: John Legend Shines at Hard Rock Live in Hollywood

When John Legend took the Hard Rock Live stage at 7:50 p.m. on a warm and windy South Florida evening, there was no smoke, no intro video, no grand entrance, just the man, his piano, and a deep-blue wash of light. Off to one side sat his longtime drummer, Rashid Williams, a musical partner with whom he has worked for more than 15 years. Their synergy felt effortless, grounded in years of live performance and mutual trust.

This concert was part of the Get Lifted 20th Anniversary Tour, a celebration of the breakthrough album that introduced Legend’s signature blend of gospel-tinged soul and R&B, back on December 28, 2004. From the opening chords, it was clear that the evening would serve as both a meditation on his musical journey and a reaffirmation of how those songs still resonate two decades later.

By the second song, Legend invited the audience to rise and move. What began as a reverent and hushed night shifted into a joy-filled and celebratory one. He alternated between being perched at the piano and stepping into the center stage with his full band and backing vocalists. His voice — rich, smooth, and commanding — carried songs that haven’t lost a whisper of warmth or emotional weight since their initial release.

Highlights included stirring renditions of “Used to Love U,” “Let’s Get Lifted,” and the evening’s biggest applause‑catcher, “Ordinary People.” Each felt freshly breathed, as though Legend were rediscovering them in front of us and letting their meaning unfold live in real time. The set moved fluidly between introspective piano ballads and high‑energy jams that had the crowd on its feet.

But beyond the polished musicianship, what stood out was Legend’s presence: gracious, grounded, fully in the moment. He radiated gratitude as much as showmanship, making the audience feel part of the anniversary, part of a shared journey rather than mere observers.

It was refreshing to witness an evening of quiet power, where less theatrics meant more soul. Twenty years after his debut, John Legend remains a performer of elegance, passion, and heart. This tour is a reminder of the power of his songs that lifted us then and are still lifting us now.