At the 2017 Nobel Peace Prize award ceremony in Oslo, Norway, John Legend delivered a performance that was both powerful and deeply moving. On a night dedicated to peace and humanity, his choice of song — Bob Marley’s “Redemption Song” — could not have been more fitting.
The atmosphere inside Oslo City Hall was calm and reverent as Legend took the stage. Dressed in a classic black suit, he sat at the piano under soft, golden lights. The audience, made up of world leaders, Nobel laureates, and guests, fell silent as the first notes filled the hall.
Instead of his usual full band or background singers, John Legend kept it simple — just his voice and piano. His version of “Redemption Song” was stripped-down and heartfelt, letting the lyrics carry the message: “Emancipate yourselves from mental slavery; none but ourselves can free our minds.” His smooth, soulful tone gave new life to Marley’s words, turning the reggae classic into a haunting ballad of hope and freedom.
As he sang, the camera captured faces in the audience — many visibly moved, some even with tears in their eyes. Every word seemed to echo through the room with meaning, especially given the event’s message of peace and human rights.
When the final line faded, the hall erupted into warm applause. Legend smiled humbly, bowed slightly, and stepped away from the piano, leaving behind a moment that would be remembered as one of the ceremony’s most emotional highlights.
John Legend’s performance of “Redemption Song” at the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony wasn’t just a tribute to Bob Marley — it was a reminder of the timeless power of music to inspire unity, courage, and peace.