Children inspire John Legend

The Nobel Peace Prize winners will be serenaded by John Legend today and for that they can thank Legend’s infant daughter — and a second baby on the way.

The Grammy winner will take the stage at the Telenor Arena in Oslo, Norway for Nobel Peace Prize Concert, a gig he takes mindful of the world he’d like to leave for his children.

“Having kids puts in context for me the kinds of things kids need to be successful and healthy and happy. And realizing that far too many kids don’t have that,” the singersongwriter said by phone from Los Angeles. “That’s what being a father has done for me.”

Legend, who performed at the 2006 peace prize concert, said he’s honoured to celebrate the same award that was handed to the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and former President Barack Obama. “I’m glad it’s being given to a group who is dedicated to actually making the world safer for everybody,” he said.

Other performers include Zara Larsson, Sigrid, Matoma and Lukas Graham. Actor David Oyelowo will host and its highly likely Legend will sing “Glory” from the film “Selma” starring Oyelowo as King. It can be seen live online .

Longtime concert executive producer Odd Arvid Stromstad said asking Legend to return this year made sense. “We had John Legend as one of the artists in 2006 in the beginning of his career, and that was a very good experience. Since then he has had an amazing career. Therefore, we have over the years discussed inviting him back,” he said.