Once "The Voice" wraps later this Spring, Usher will begin rigorous training for an anticipated role, portraying Boxing great Sugar Ray Leonard in the big screen feature "Hands of Stone."
With production set to begin in Panama this Fall, the role will be Usher's first major feature film leading role to date. It is also one that he considers a challenge.
"You couldn't find a more stylized boxer than Sugar Ray Leonard […] He was an incredible motion guy, the way he moved around the ring, and I think my dancing will make it easier for me to pick up his moves. I've been working on familiarizing myself with the ring, sparring and just understanding how to move in the ring," Usher shared with the Associated Press recently. "I'm up for the challenge, and I'm looking forward to it […] I think my overall feeling is one of anticipation. It seems like this is a real passion project. It's a film that everybody is so invested in, and I have the good fortune of having the character I'm playing still around."
While Usher is looking forward to the role, he does have a task that will affect his routine in the coming months. That is losing around 25 pounds.
Hoping to lose the weight through training, Usher appears not to be concerned or worried about being in shape when production begins.
"I think my dancing will make it easier for me to pick up his moves. I've been working on familiarizing myself with the ring, sparring and just understanding how to move in the ring," he shared.
In related news, Usher has been tapped to curate songs for Macy's Annual Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular.
"As an artist, it's important that I expand creatively into new areas. Working on the score and fireworks design has been a great experience that's allowed me to share my voice in a new way," Usher said in a statement, confirming the opportunity.
In addition to placement of his own songs, Usher will sift through and select a mixture of pop, soul, electronic, dance music and country.
Macy's 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular airs on NBC, July 4 at 9 p.m. ET/PT.
Usher Raymond is no stranger to the spotlight. The three-time Grammy Award winning recording artist has been a fixture in popular music for over two decades, and he’s now taking his talents offstage in an entirely new way. He’s been tapped to curate Macy’s 4th of July Spectacular – but that’s not all! Usher also recently opened up about his upcoming role as boxing coach Sugar Ray Leonard in Creed 2.
Usher has always had a deep passion for music, but it seems like that isn’t enough anymore. His newest endeavor takes him outside of the realm of pop stardom and into blockbuster cinema with a featured role in Creed 2 alongside Michael B. Jordan and Sylvester Stallone. In an interview with Deadline, he discussed how much this opportunity means to him: “I am very excited to be part of such a powerful legacy… I can bring something unique to the table.”
On top of his acting career, Usher has also taken on another big project; he will be responsible for curating Macy’s Fourth Of July Fireworks show this year! Alongside Pitbull and Gwen Stefani, who are set to perform during the event, Usher will help ensure that viewers get the most out of their holiday experience. Let’s take a closer look at what ushers involvement entails!
Usher’s Involvement In The Sport Of Boxing
Usher is no stranger to the world of entertainment, but now he’s taking on a new role by entering the sport of boxing. The Grammy award-winning singer and music producer has been tapped to curate Macy’s Fourth of July Spectacular in 2021. As part of this exciting venture, Usher will also take part in an upcoming series featuring boxers from around the world.
The artist recently opened up about his involvement in the sport and what inspired him to join it. In an interview with ESPN, Usher said that although he was never trained as a boxer himself, he had always admired athletes for their dedication and passion for competition. He wanted to show his support for those who fought hard every day and give them recognition through this special event at Macy’s.
Usher went on to say that he was particularly excited about the opportunity because it would allow him to bring together both worlds – one filled with music and artistry, while the other focused on athleticism and sportsmanship. This way, audiences could experience something unique they wouldn’t get anywhere else. It’s clear that Usher wants to use this platform not only to celebrate our nation’s independence but also pay homage to all the dedicated fighters out there who make things possible each day.
Preparations For Macy’s 4th Of July Spectacular
Usher is currently hard at work preparing for the Macy’s Fourth of July Spectacular. He has assembled a team of experts to help him curate an unforgettable experience that celebrates both music and sport. To make sure everything runs smoothly, Usher and his team are carefully selecting boxers from around the world who will be featured in the event.
In addition, Usher is also creating original musical performances that will accompany each fight. He wants viewers to have an immersive experience where they can feel like they’re right there in the ring with the fighters. With this initiative, he hopes to honor those brave athletes while simultaneously bringing joy to audiences through captivating music.
The preparations for Macy’s Fourth of July Spectacular are well underway and it looks to be a star-studded affair. It promises to be an exciting celebration filled with energy, entertainment, and inspiration – something we could all use during these trying times. We look forward to seeing what Usher has in store come Independence Day!
Conclusion
Paragraph 1: Usher has been a long-time fan of boxing, so it was no surprise when he was tapped to curate Macy’s 4th of July Spectacular. He is passionate about the sport and knows how exciting it can be for viewers. With his involvement in this event, Usher will be able to showcase some of the wonderful aspects of the sport while bringing attention to one of the biggest holidays in America.
Paragraph 2: Those who have followed Usher’s career know that he isn’t afraid to take on a challenge or venture into something new. His enthusiasm for boxing makes him an ideal curator for such a national holiday celebration as Macy’s 4th of July Spectacular. I’m sure everyone will appreciate all the hard work he puts into making this special night even more enjoyable with his unique perspective and insight into boxing.
Paragraph 3: It’ll be interesting to see what type of show Usher comes up with for us all. He undoubtedly brings great creativity along with knowledge and passion for the sport which should make this year’s Fourth of July spectacular truly memorable! No doubt viewers around the world will find themselves engrossed in whatever magic Usher conjures up – we certainly can’t wait!