Usher (singer)

Usher (singer) is a renowned American singer, songwriter, and dancer who has been active in the music industry since 1994. Born in Dallas, Texas, United States, Usher has collaborated with numerous prominent artists, including Lil Jon, Ludacris, and Snoop Dogg. He has also worked with notable record producers such as Jermaine Dupri, Pharrell Williams, and The Neptunes. Usher's music style is a fusion of R&B, pop music, and hip hop music, which has been influenced by artists like Michael Jackson, Prince, and Stevie Wonder.

Early Life and Career

Usher was born to Jonnetta Patton and Usher Raymond III in Dallas, Texas, and later moved to Chattanooga, Tennessee, and then Atlanta, Georgia. He began singing in his church choir and participating in local talent shows, which led to him being discovered by a record executive from Arista Records. Usher's self-titled debut album, released in 1994, was produced by Sean Combs and featured the single Call Me a Mack, which was featured on the soundtrack of the film Poetic Justice, starring Tupac Shakur and Janet Jackson. Usher's early career was also influenced by his work with LaFace Records, a record label founded by Antonio "L.A." Reid and Kenneth "Babyface" Edmonds.

Music Career

Usher's music career gained momentum with the release of his second album, My Way, in 1997, which included the hit singles You Make Me Wanna... and Nice & Slow. The album was certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) and earned Usher his first Grammy Award nomination. He continued to collaborate with prominent artists, such as P. Diddy, Missy Elliott, and Timbaland, on his subsequent albums, including 8701 and Confessions. Usher's album Here I Stand (2008) featured the hit single Love in This Club, which was produced by Polow da Don and featured Young Jeezy. His album Raymond v. Raymond (2010) included the singles OMG and There Goes My Baby, and featured collaborations with Will.I.Am and Nicki Minaj.

Artistry and Influences

Usher's music style has been influenced by a range of artists, including James Brown, Marvin Gaye, and Elton John. He has also cited Quincy Jones and Kenny Rogers as inspirations. Usher's vocal style has been compared to that of Al Green and Sam Cooke, and he has been praised for his energetic live performances, which have been influenced by Michael Jackson's Moonwalk and Prince's Purple Rain tour. Usher has also been influenced by hip hop music and has collaborated with artists such as Kanye West, Drake, and Lil Wayne. His music has been featured on various soundtracks, including those for The Twilight Saga and Step Up.

Personal Life

Usher has been married to Tameka Foster and has two sons, Usher V and Naviyd Ely Raymond. He has been involved in various philanthropic activities, including working with the New Look Foundation, which he founded in 1999 to provide support to disadvantaged youth. Usher has also been involved in various charity events, including the Robin Hood Foundation's annual benefit and the American Red Cross's disaster relief efforts. He has been recognized for his philanthropic work, including being awarded the Ford Freedom Award and the BET Humanitarian Award.

Discography

Usher's discography includes the albums Usher (1994), My Way (1997), 8701 (2001), Confessions (2004), Here I Stand (2008), Raymond v. Raymond (2010), Looking 4 Myself (2012), and Hard II Love (2016). He has also released several singles, including Yeah! (feat. Lil Jon and Ludacris), Burn (feat. Lil Jon and T.I.), and Climax (prod. by Diplo). Usher's music has been featured on various compilations, including the Now That's What I Call Music! series and the Grammy Nominees album.

Awards and Accolades

Usher has won numerous awards, including eight Grammy Awards, eighteen Billboard Music Awards, and fourteen Teen Choice Awards. He has been recognized for his contributions to music and philanthropy, including being awarded the American Music Award for Favorite Soul/R&B Male Artist and the BET Award for Best Male R&B/Pop Artist. Usher has also been named one of the most influential people in the world by Time Magazine and has been featured on the cover of various publications, including Rolling Stone, Vibe, and Essence. He has performed at various high-profile events, including the Super Bowl XLV halftime show and the White House's Christmas in Washington concert.