John Legend Returns to Ravinia Festival for Special 20th Anniversary Celebration of “Get Lifted”
CHICAGO, IL — This weekend, John Legend will bring his celebrated voice and timeless hits back to Ravinia Festival in Highland Park, performing two nights in honor of the 20th anniversary of his debut album, “Get Lifted.” The shows, set for Saturday and Sunday evening, promise a mix of nostalgia, storytelling, and a deep connection to the city where much of Legend’s artistry has roots.
John Legend’s Connection to Ravinia
For John Legend, Ravinia is more than just a venue — it is part of his musical journey. Over the years, the Grammy-winning singer has performed at Ravinia so many times that, as he put it, he’s “lost count.” He reflects warmly on how the summer concert tradition brings Chicagoans together: “I think everybody that’s from Chicago and from the area knows, there’s nothing like summertime in Chicago, and Ravinia has such a special place in my heart, because we’ve had so many incredible shows there.”
The Ravinia atmosphere — where families and friends gather with picnics on the lawn while music fills the night — remains one of Legend’s favorite parts of returning. It’s not just about the songs, but about the collective experience of music under the stars.
Celebrating 20 Years of “Get Lifted”
The weekend’s performances will be especially meaningful as Legend commemorates 20 years of “Get Lifted”, the album that introduced him to the world. Fans can expect to hear every track from the project, accompanied by the singer’s personal stories about its creation and its ties to Chicago.
Released in 2004, “Get Lifted” quickly became a defining moment in Legend’s career, earning him critical acclaim and multiple Grammy Awards. Revisiting the album live offers fans a rare opportunity to reconnect with the music that helped shape contemporary R&B and soul in the early 2000s.
New Music and What’s Next
While honoring his past, Legend is also looking forward. He confirmed that he is currently working on a new album, with plans for release early next year. His philosophy remains rooted in artistic reinvention: “I love working on new music, it gives you a chance to reinvent yourself every time. Every album is new material, a chance to redefine yourself, and I always approach each album believing my next album should be my best.”
This balance of legacy and innovation ensures that his shows at Ravinia won’t just feel like a trip down memory lane, but also a celebration of where he is headed as an artist.
How to Attend
Doors to the Ravinia Festival grounds open at 5 p.m., with both shows beginning at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are still available, offering fans the chance to witness a once-in-a-generation performance that bridges the past and the future of one of music’s most enduring voices.
As Chicago’s summer concert season continues, John Legend’s return to Ravinia stands out as a highlight — blending timeless songs, local memories, and a glimpse into his next chapter. For more updates on Chicago’s biggest concerts and festivals, visit ChicagoMusicGuide.com for the latest coverage.