John Roger Stephens (born December 28, 1978), known professionally as John Legend, is an American singer, songwriter and actor. Prior to the release of Legend's debut album, he collaborated with already established artists. At various points in his career, Legend has sung in Magnetic Man's "Getting Nowhere", Kanye West's "Blame Game", on Slum Village's "Selfish", and Dilated Peoples' "This Way". Other collaborative appearances include Jay-Z's "Encore", backing vocals on Alicia Keys' 2003 song "You Don't Know My Name", and Fort Minor's "High Road". Legend played piano on Lauryn Hill's "Everything Is Everything".