Usher, born Usher Raymond IV, is an American singer, songwriter, actor, and dancer. He first rose to fame in the 1990s with his debut album, “Usher,” which included hits such as “Can U Get wit It” and “Think of You.” Usher’s smooth R&B vocals and dynamic dance moves quickly made him a fan favorite. Over the years, he has released numerous chart-topping albums, including “My Way,” “8701,” “Confessions,” and “Raymond v. Raymond.” Usher has also had several successful collaborations with other artists, including the popular hit “Yeah!” with Lil Jon and Ludacris.
Aside from his music career, Usher has also appeared in several films and television shows, including “The Faculty,” “Light It Up,” and “Moesha.” He has won numerous awards throughout his career, including eight Grammy Awards, and has been recognized as one of the best-selling music artists of all time. Usher is also involved in philanthropy, and has established his own foundation to help disadvantaged children. Overall, Usher has had a lasting impact on the R&B and pop music scenes, and remains a beloved artist and performer to this day.
1. Yeah! (feat. Lil Jon & Ludacris)
“Yeah!” is a high-energy and infectious hit by Usher featuring Lil Jon and Ludacris, released in 2004. The song features a driving beat, catchy hook, and powerful guest verses from Lil Jon and Ludacris, making it an instant party anthem. Its lyrics speak of living life to the fullest, with Usher’s smooth vocals and Lil Jon’s signature “Yeah!” ad-libs urging listeners to let loose and have fun. “Yeah!” became one of Usher’s most successful singles, winning a Grammy award and topping charts around the world. Its influence on pop and hip-hop music is undeniable, and it remains a beloved favorite of fans and party-goers alike.
2. U Remind Me
“U Remind Me” is a classic R&B track by Usher that was released in 2001. The song features a catchy chorus and smooth vocals, with lyrics that discuss a relationship that’s difficult to let go of, even though it’s not healthy. The song was a commercial success, reaching the top 5 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and winning a Grammy Award for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance in 2002. Its memorable beat and lyrics have made it a fan favorite and a staple of Usher’s discography.
3. Burn
“Burn” is a hit R&B ballad by Usher, released in 2004 as part of his album “Confessions”. The song features a slow and emotional melody and Usher’s powerful vocals, which express the pain and heartbreak of a failing relationship. The lyrics convey a sense of betrayal and regret, as the singer confronts the reality of losing his love and must come to terms with the end of the relationship. “Burn” became a massive hit for Usher, earning critical acclaim for its raw power and emotional depth, and remains a fan favorite and a testament to Usher’s talent as a songwriter and performer.
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4. My Boo (feat. Alicia Keys)
“My Boo” is a romantic and soulful hit by Usher featuring Alicia Keys, released in 2004. The song features a gentle piano melody, smooth vocals from both Usher and Keys, and heartfelt lyrics about rekindling a lost love. Its chorus of “My boo, my oh, my boo” has become an iconic and memorable hook that captures the song’s emotional intensity and tenderness. “My Boo” was a chart-topping success and received critical acclaim for its stunning vocal performances and beautiful songwriting. It remains a beloved favorite of fans of both Usher and Alicia Keys, and a classic example of R&B and pop music at its best.
5. Confessions Part II
“Confessions Part II” is a hit R&B song by Usher, released in 2004 as part of his album “Confessions”. The song features a mid-tempo beat and Usher’s passionate vocals, which describe a painful confession of infidelity to his partner. The lyrics convey a sense of guilt and remorse, as the singer struggles with the consequences of his actions and seeks forgiveness from his partner. “Confessions Part II” became a massive hit for Usher, earning critical acclaim for its raw emotion and catchy melody, and remains a fan favorite and a testament to Usher’s ability to infuse his music with honesty and vulnerability.
6. Climax
“Climax” is a song by Usher that was released in 2012. It features a slow, atmospheric beat with falsetto vocals that build to a haunting climax. The lyrics describe a relationship that has reached a breaking point, with the singer torn between the desire to fight for love and the need to let go. The song is a departure from Usher’s usual upbeat, dance-oriented sound, and showcases his ability to create a more introspective and emotional track. “Climax” received critical acclaim and was a commercial success, earning Usher a Grammy Award for Best R&B Performance.
7. Love in This Club (feat. Young Jeezy)
“Love in This Club” is a seductive and steamy hit by Usher, released in 2008. The song features a pulsing beat, atmospheric synths, and Usher’s smooth and sensual vocals, making it an irresistible invitation to hit the dance floor. Its lyrics speak of a spontaneous and passionate encounter with a lover in the club, with Usher’s vocals conveying a sense of urgency and desire. “Love in This Club” was a commercial and critical success, cementing Usher’s status as a leading figure in contemporary R&B and pop music. It remains a beloved favorite of fans and party-goers alike, and a classic example of Usher’s musical and vocal prowess.
8. U Got It Bad
“U Got It Bad” is a hit R&B song by Usher, released in 2001 as part of his album “8701”. The song features a smooth and soulful melody and Usher’s powerful vocals, which describe the pain and heartbreak of a failing relationship. The lyrics convey a sense of desperation and longing, as the singer tries to come to terms with the end of the relationship and the realization that he may have lost the love of his life. “U Got It Bad” became a massive hit for Usher, earning critical acclaim for its raw emotion and catchy melody, and remains a fan favorite and a testament to Usher’s talent as a songwriter and performer.
9. DJ Got Us Fallin’ in Love (feat. Pitbull)
“DJ Got Us Fallin’ in Love” is a dance-pop track by Usher, featuring Pitbull. Released in 2010 as the lead single from Usher’s album “Versus,” the song quickly became a chart-topping hit. The catchy beat, strong vocals, and catchy chorus make it a perfect club anthem. The lyrics revolve around a carefree night out with friends, dancing and enjoying life. Pitbull’s rap verse adds an extra energy to the song, making it an instant classic. The music video, featuring Usher and Pitbull performing in a club, adds to the song’s fun and party atmosphere. Overall, “DJ Got Us Fallin’ in Love” is a must-listen for fans of pop and dance music.
10. Nice & Slow
“Nice & Slow” is a sultry and romantic hit by Usher, released in 1997. The song features a slow and sensual beat, smooth vocals from Usher, and lyrics that speak of taking the time to savor every moment with a lover. Its chorus of “I wanna take it nice and slow” captures the song’s sensual and romantic mood, while Usher’s vocals and the dreamy production make it a perfect slow jam for intimate moments. “Nice & Slow” was a commercial and critical success, launching Usher’s career as a leading figure in contemporary R&B and establishing him as a master of the slow jam genre.
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.
