John Legend delivered the commencement speech to Duke University’s 2021 graduating class this Sunday. The singer began with an appreciation for the opportunity, saying, “this is the first time I’ve been in front of a live audience, hearing live applause since last February, fourteen months ago.” In his speech, Legend spoke candidly about the difficulties the COVID-19 pandemic has posed to the campus community of students and families. “Your class lost a lot: some lost job offers, some lost loved ones, and all of you lost a whole year [of] those little moments that make college so special,” said Legend. “I feel your pain. You’ve lost something that you won’t get back. I won’t sugarcoat that. It sucks.”