Usher, a prominent figure in the R&B scene, has been leading the genre since the mid-’90s, transitioning through various music styles from post-new jack swing to incorporating elements of Afrobeats and amapiano. His journey began in the church and swiftly propelled him into the limelight, starting as a contestant on Star Search and then signing a major-label deal. Despite his bold debut single ‘Call Me a Mack’ at the age of 14, Usher quickly honed his tenor voice to perfection, solidifying his claim to the R&B throne. The release of ‘My Way’ in 1997 marked a significant milestone in his career, with a string of hit singles produced by Jermaine Dupri that dominated the Billboard Hot 100 charts.
Born as Usher Terry Raymond IV in Dallas, Usher’s passion for music led him to Atlanta after spending his early years in Chattanooga. The pivotal moment came when a LaFace A&R representative discovered him on Star Search, paving the way for a recording contract under the mentorship of L.A. Reid. His musical journey took off in 1993 with the release of ‘Call Me a Mack’ and his self-titled debut album the following year, showcasing his talents as a singer and songwriter. Usher’s sophomore album ‘My Way’ in 1997 further solidified his status as an R&B sensation, with chart-topping singles like ‘You Make Me Wanna’ and ‘Nice & Slow’ propelling him to international fame.
Continuing his musical evolution, Usher released ‘8701’ in 2001 and ‘Confessions’ in 2004, marking a new level of success with multiple Grammy wins and diamond platinum certifications. His subsequent albums, including ‘Here I Stand,’ ‘Raymond v Raymond,’ and ‘Looking 4 Myself,’ maintained his commercial momentum with chart-topping singles and collaborations. Despite a less prolific period, Usher made a triumphant return with ‘Hard II Love’ in 2016, ‘A’ in 2018, and the cosmopolitan ‘Coming Home’ in 2024, following a successful Las Vegas residency.