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John Legend Covered Bob Marley's "Redemption Song" in the Most Moving Way

It was a touching take on a powerful song. 

By Jackie Manno

In 2017, The Voice alum John Legend was selected to perform at one of the world's most honorable events: the Nobel Peace Prize Award ceremony. There, he fittingly covered a powerful and moving tune: "Redemption Song" by a pioneer for peace, Bob Marley. 

How to Watch

Watch The Voice Mondays and Tuesdays at 8/7c on NBC and next day on Peacock. 

A recap of his performance: Legend began to play some intricate piano notes before singing the track's lyrics with full-force vibrato. He performed the deep lyrics with gusto, riffing gently at times. Legend fully immersed himself in the music in the best way, paying respect to those making the greatest strides for progress in society. 

Watch the performance here. 

About "Redemption Song" by Bob Marley

Released in 1980, "Redemption Song" is distinct from Marley's previous songs — it's a ballad accompanied by an acoustic guitar only. The deeply personal lyrics revolve around making peace with one's place in life despite hardships. It's considered to be one of Marley's greatest works. 

"Redemption Song" by Bob Marley lyrics

Old pirates, yes, they rob I
Sold I to the merchant ships
Minutes after they took I
From the bottomless pit
But my hand was made strong
By the hand of the Almighty
We forward in this generation
Triumphantly

Split image of John Legend and Bob Marley

Won't you help to sing
These songs of freedom?
'Cause all I ever have
Redemption songs
Redemption songs

Emancipate yourselves from mental slavery
None but ourselves can free our minds
Have no fear for atomic energy
'Cause none of them can stop the time
How long shall they kill our prophets
While we stand aside and look?
Ooh, some say it's just a part of it
We've got to fulfill the book

RELATED: This Video Shows Just How Many Hit Songs John Legend Helped Make

Won't you help to sing
These songs of freedom?
'Cause all I ever have
Redemption songs
Redemption songs
Redemption songs

Emancipate yourselves from mental slavery
None but ourselves can free our mind
Whoa! Have no fear for atomic energy
'Cause none of them-ah can-ah stop-ah the time
How long shall they kill our prophets
While we stand aside and look?
Yes, some say it's just a part of it
We've got to fulfill the book

John Legend speaking at an event.

Won't you help to sing
These songs of freedom?
'Cause all I ever have
Redemption songs

RELATED: See John Legend at the Barbie Mansion on a Giant Toy Horse with 6-Year-Old Miles

All I ever have
Redemption songs
These songs of freedom
Songs of freedom

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