Usher, born Usher Raymond IV on October 14, 1978, is an American singer, songwriter, and actor known for his smooth vocals and dynamic stage presence. He rose to fame in the late 1990s with his breakthrough album *My Way* (1997), which featured hits like “You Make Me Wanna…” and “Nice & Slow.” Usher continued to dominate the R&B scene with his 2004 album *Confessions*, which included chart-topping singles like “Yeah!” and “Burn.” Known for blending R&B with pop and hip-hop influences, Usher has sold millions of records worldwide, earning numerous awards and accolades throughout his career. He’s also recognized for his influence on the genre and mentoring emerging artists.
1. OMG (feat. will.i.am)
“OMG,” featuring will.i.am, is a hit single by Usher from his 2010 album *Raymond v. Raymond*. The song blends R&B with electro-pop, creating a dance-ready anthem that became a global success. Produced by and featuring will.i.am, “OMG” is driven by its catchy chorus, pulsating beats, and energetic vibe. The lyrics celebrate the thrill of infatuation and the excitement of meeting someone new. “OMG” topped the charts in multiple countries, including the U.S., where it became Usher’s ninth number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100. The song’s infectious energy and futuristic sound made it a staple in Usher’s discography.
2. DJ Got Us Fallin’ In Love (feat. Pitbull)
“DJ Got Us Fallin’ In Love,” featuring Pitbull, is a high-energy dance-pop track by Usher, released in 2010 as part of his EP *Versus*. The song, produced by Max Martin, combines upbeat electronic beats with catchy melodies, making it a club anthem. Usher’s smooth vocals express the euphoria of a night out where the music makes you fall in love all over again. Pitbull’s verse adds a lively, party-ready vibe to the track. “DJ Got Us Fallin’ In Love” became a commercial success, reaching the top ten in multiple countries and reinforcing Usher’s dominance in the pop and dance music scene.
3. You Make Me Wanna…
“You Make Me Wanna…” is a hit single by Usher, released in 1997 as the lead track from his second studio album, *My Way*. The song, produced by Jermaine Dupri, showcases Usher’s smooth vocals over a blend of R&B and pop melodies. The lyrics explore the complexities of romantic relationships, specifically the temptation to leave one partner for another. “You Make Me Wanna…” became a major success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries and solidifying Usher’s place as a leading R&B artist of the late ’90s. The track’s infectious hook and relatable theme have made it one of Usher’s signature songs.
4. My Boo (feat. Alicia Keys)
“My Boo” is a duet by Usher and Alicia Keys, released in 2004 as a single from the deluxe edition of Usher’s album *Confessions*. The song is a romantic R&B ballad that tells the story of two former lovers reminiscing about their past relationship, acknowledging that they will always have a special place in each other’s hearts. Produced by Jermaine Dupri, the track features a smooth blend of Usher and Alicia Keys’ vocals, with a catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics. “My Boo” topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart and became a defining hit for both artists, earning widespread acclaim for its emotional resonance and vocal chemistry.
5. Burn
“Burn” is one of Usher’s most iconic tracks, released as the second single from his 2004 album *Confessions*. The song is a heartfelt R&B ballad that delves into the pain of ending a relationship that’s no longer working. With its emotive lyrics and smooth production by Jermaine Dupri and Bryan-Michael Cox, “Burn” captures the internal conflict of holding on versus letting go. Usher’s powerful vocal delivery conveys the raw emotion of heartbreak and regret. The song topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart and became one of the defining tracks of Usher’s career, showcasing his ability to blend vulnerability with mainstream appeal.
6. Confessions Part II
“Confessions Part II” is a popular single by Usher, released in 2004 as part of his critically acclaimed album *Confessions*. The song, produced by Jermaine Dupri and Bryan-Michael Cox, serves as a sequel to “Confessions Part I” and delves into the narrative of a man confessing to his partner about infidelity and the consequences that follow, including an unplanned pregnancy. The track’s raw honesty, coupled with Usher’s emotive delivery, resonated with listeners, making it one of the standout tracks on the album. “Confessions Part II” topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart and became one of Usher’s most iconic songs, solidifying his status as a leading R&B artist of the 2000s.
7. Nice & Slow
“Nice & Slow,” a single from Usher’s 1997 album *My Way*, is a smooth R&B track that highlights his sensual vocal style and mature lyrical themes. The song, produced by Bryan-Michael Cox and Jermaine Dupri, explores the pleasures and intimacy of a romantic relationship. Its slow tempo, seductive beat, and sultry lyrics create a relaxed, sensual atmosphere. “Nice & Slow” became one of Usher’s early hits, showcasing his ability to blend melodic hooks with a sophisticated sound. The track reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100, solidifying Usher’s place in the R&B scene and setting the stage for his future success.
8. Scream (feat. Lil Jon)
“Scream” is an energetic track by Usher, featured on his 2012 album *Looking 4 Myself*. The song is a high-energy dance-pop and R&B blend that showcases Usher’s versatility as an artist. Produced by Max Martin and Shellback, “Scream” features pulsating beats, catchy hooks, and Usher’s smooth vocals. The lyrics focus on letting loose and living in the moment, encouraging listeners to dance and have a good time. Though it doesn’t feature Lil Jon, Usher’s collaborations with Lil Jon, such as “Yeah!”, are well-known for their party anthems. “Scream” became a commercial success, charting worldwide and adding to Usher’s string of hits.
9. Yeah! (feat. Lil Jon & Ludacris)
“Yeah!” is a dynamic hit single by Usher, featuring Lil Jon and Ludacris, from his 2004 album *Confessions*. The track, produced by Lil Jon and Sean Garrett, blends crunk, R&B, and hip-hop elements, creating a high-energy club anthem. Lil Jon’s signature “yeah!” ad-libs and Ludacris’s charismatic verse add to the track’s infectious party vibe. Usher’s smooth vocals drive the song’s catchy chorus, celebrating a night out and the excitement of dancing and partying. “Yeah!” topped the Billboard Hot 100 for 12 consecutive weeks and became one of Usher’s most successful singles, solidifying his influence in the early 2000s music scene.
10. U Got It Bad
“U Got It Bad” is one of Usher’s signature R&B ballads, released in 2001 as the second single from his third studio album, *8701*. Produced by Jermaine Dupri and Bryan-Michael Cox, the song captures the pain and longing of a man deeply in love and heartbroken after a breakup. Usher’s emotive vocals, combined with the smooth, soulful production, convey the intensity of the feelings described in the lyrics. “U Got It Bad” topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart and became one of Usher’s most iconic songs, solidifying his reputation as a leading voice in contemporary R&B. The track’s relatable themes and passionate delivery have made it a timeless favorite.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
