Usher, born Usher Raymond IV on October 14, 1978, in Dallas, Texas, is an acclaimed American singer, songwriter, dancer, and actor. Rising to fame in the late 1990s, Usher became known for his smooth voice, charismatic stage presence, and versatile dance skills. His breakthrough album, “My Way” (1997), featured hits like “Nice & Slow” and “You Make Me Wanna…,” solidifying his place in R&B.
Usher’s 2004 album “Confessions” is one of his most successful works, producing chart-topping singles such as “Yeah!” and “Burn.” The album’s candid exploration of personal themes resonated with audiences, making it a critical and commercial success.
Beyond music, Usher has acted in films and TV shows, and he is also a notable philanthropist, founding the New Look Foundation to empower youth. Over his career, Usher has won numerous awards, including Grammy Awards, and is celebrated as one of the best-selling music artists of all time.
1. OMG (feat. will.i.am)
“OMG” is a hit single by Usher, featuring will.i.am of The Black Eyed Peas. Released in 2010 as part of Usher’s sixth studio album, “Raymond v. Raymond,” the song blends R&B with dance-pop elements, creating a catchy and energetic anthem. will.i.am produced the track and contributed a verse, adding to its dynamic appeal.
“OMG” features a thumping beat, infectious chorus, and Auto-Tuned vocals, highlighting Usher’s smooth delivery and will.i.am’s signature production style. The lyrics celebrate a mesmerizing encounter on the dance floor, capturing the excitement and allure of nightlife.
The song received widespread acclaim, topping the charts in several countries, including the United States, where it became Usher’s ninth number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100. “OMG” remains a standout track in Usher’s discography, celebrated for its danceable rhythm and club-ready vibe.
2. DJ Got Us Fallin’ In Love (feat. Pitbull)
“DJ Got Us Fallin’ In Love” is a popular single by Usher, featuring rapper Pitbull. Released in 2010, it is part of the extended play “Versus,” which serves as a companion to Usher’s sixth studio album, “Raymond v. Raymond.” The track showcases a high-energy dance-pop and electropop sound, perfectly suited for the club scene.
Produced by Max Martin and Shellback, the song features a pulsating beat, catchy synths, and a memorable chorus. Pitbull’s verse adds a dynamic flair with his signature style and party-themed lyrics. The lyrics of “DJ Got Us Fallin’ In Love” depict a night of uninhibited dancing and romance, fueled by the infectious beats spun by a DJ.
The song received positive reviews from critics and was a commercial success, reaching the top ten in multiple countries, including the United States, where it peaked at number four on the Billboard Hot 100. “DJ Got Us Fallin’ In Love” remains a staple in Usher’s repertoire, celebrated for its danceable rhythm and infectious energy.
3. You Make Me Wanna…
“You Make Me Wanna…” is a standout single by Usher from his second studio album, “My Way,” released in 1997. Written by Usher along with Jermaine Dupri and Manuel Seal, the song marked a significant breakthrough in Usher’s career, establishing him as a prominent R&B artist.
The track features a smooth, seductive melody with a blend of R&B and pop influences. Its lyrics explore the emotional turmoil of being in a relationship while feeling drawn to another person. Usher’s expressive vocals convey the song’s themes of desire and internal conflict effectively.
Produced by Jermaine Dupri, “You Make Me Wanna…” is noted for its memorable guitar riff and engaging production. The song achieved commercial success, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100 and topping the charts in various countries. It received critical acclaim and won the Soul Train Music Award for Best R&B/Soul Single, Male.
“You Make Me Wanna…” remains one of Usher’s signature songs, celebrated for its catchy hook and relatable lyrics, and it played a key role in cementing his status as a leading figure in R&B music.
4. My Boo (feat. Alicia Keys)
“My Boo” is a duet by American artists Usher and Alicia Keys. Released in 2004, the song is featured on the reissue of Usher’s album “Confessions” and also appears on Alicia Keys’ “The Diary of Alicia Keys” as a bonus track.
The song, produced by Jermaine Dupri, is a mid-tempo R&B track that explores themes of young love and nostalgia. The lyrics tell the story of a past romantic relationship that both singers fondly remember as their first true love. Usher and Alicia Keys’ vocal performances complement each other, creating a soulful and emotive duet.
“My Boo” achieved significant commercial success, topping the Billboard Hot 100 chart and earning widespread acclaim for its catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics. The chemistry between Usher and Alicia Keys, both in their vocal delivery and the song’s narrative, makes “My Boo” a memorable and enduring hit in their discographies.
5. Burn
“Burn” is a song by American R&B artist Usher, released as the second single from his 2004 album “Confessions.” The song was written by Usher, Jermaine Dupri, and Bryan-Michael Cox, who also produced the track.
“Burn” is a slow-tempo R&B ballad that deals with the pain and emotional turmoil of ending a relationship. The lyrics express the difficulty of breaking up despite knowing it is the best decision for both parties. Usher’s heartfelt delivery and the song’s poignant melody capture the intensity and complexity of the emotions involved in such a situation.
The song was a commercial success, topping the Billboard Hot 100 chart and receiving widespread acclaim for its soulful production and relatable lyrics. “Burn” is considered one of Usher’s signature songs and contributed to the massive success of the “Confessions” album, which is one of the best-selling albums of the 2000s.
6. Confessions Part II
“Confessions Part II” is a powerful track by Usher from his 2004 album “Confessions.” Written by Usher, Jermaine Dupri, and Bryan-Michael Cox, the song serves as a sequel to the album’s title track, continuing the narrative of infidelity and its consequences.
The song features a slow, melancholic R&B groove, with Usher’s emotive vocals conveying deep regret and remorse. In “Confessions Part II,” Usher candidly admits to his past mistakes, confessing to betraying his partner’s trust and grappling with the guilt and consequences of his actions.
The track is notable for its heartfelt lyrics and raw honesty, reflecting themes of love, loss, and redemption. Its production, characterized by lush instrumentation and atmospheric elements, adds to the emotional impact of the song.
“Confessions Part II” was a commercial success, reaching the top five on the Billboard Hot 100 and receiving critical acclaim for its authenticity and vulnerability. It remains one of Usher’s most enduring and introspective songs, resonating with listeners for its relatable portrayal of human frailty and the complexities of relationships.
7. Nice & Slow
“Nice & Slow” is a song by American R&B singer Usher, released as the third single from his second studio album, “My Way,” in 1998. Written by Usher, Jermaine Dupri, and Manuel Seal, the song was produced by Dupri and Seal.
“Nice & Slow” is a slow, sensual R&B ballad that showcases Usher’s smooth vocals and romantic lyrics. The song’s narrative focuses on a passionate and intimate moment between lovers, emphasizing a tender and unhurried approach to romance. The lyrics, combined with the song’s lush production and melody, create a seductive atmosphere.
The song became Usher’s first number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and solidified his status as a leading R&B artist. “Nice & Slow” is praised for its catchy hook, memorable melody, and Usher’s charismatic performance. It remains one of his most iconic songs and a staple of 1990s R&B music.
8. Scream (feat. Lil Jon)
“Scream” is a high-energy track by Usher, featuring Lil Jon and Ludacris, released in 2004. The song is part of Usher’s fourth studio album, “Confessions.” Not to be confused with another Usher song titled “Scream” released in 2012, this 2004 track is known for its uptempo beat and club-ready vibe.
Produced by Lil Jon, “Scream” blends crunk and R&B elements, featuring heavy bass, dynamic synths, and energetic rap verses. The song’s lyrics revolve around a wild night out, filled with dancing and letting loose, capturing the party atmosphere perfectly. Lil Jon’s signature hype style and Ludacris’s charismatic rap verse complement Usher’s smooth vocals, making the song a favorite for both radio and club play.
Though not released as a single, “Scream” contributed to the overall success of the “Confessions” album, which remains one of Usher’s most successful and critically acclaimed projects. The track is a testament to Usher’s versatility as an artist, seamlessly blending different musical styles to create a memorable and infectious hit.
9. Yeah! (feat. Lil Jon & Ludacris)
“Yeah!” is a smash hit single by Usher featuring Lil Jon and Ludacris, released in 2004 as part of Usher’s album “Confessions.” Produced by Lil Jon, the song is a high-energy blend of R&B and crunk music, characterized by its infectious beat, catchy hook, and party-ready vibe.
Lil Jon’s signature ad-libs and energetic production set the tone for the track, while Ludacris delivers a memorable rap verse, adding to its dynamic appeal. Usher’s smooth vocals glide effortlessly over the pulsating rhythm, inviting listeners to hit the dance floor.
“Yeah!” dominated the charts upon its release, topping the Billboard Hot 100 for twelve consecutive weeks and becoming one of the best-selling singles of all time. Its success was fueled by its catchy chorus, club-friendly sound, and star-studded lineup of artists.
The song’s lyrics celebrate carefree nights out, with themes of dancing, partying, and living in the moment. Its undeniable catchiness and universal appeal made it a cultural phenomenon, cementing its status as one of Usher’s most iconic and enduring songs.
10. U Got It Bad
“U Got It Bad” is a song by Usher, released in 2001 as the second single from his album “8701.” The song was written by Usher, Jermaine Dupri, and Bryan-Michael Cox, with production handled by Dupri and Cox.
“U Got It Bad” is a slow-tempo R&B ballad that explores the theme of heartbreak and longing for a lost love. The lyrics describe the pain and realization that comes with missing someone deeply, highlighting the vulnerability and emotional depth of Usher’s vocals. The song’s melody is melodic and soulful, adding to its emotional impact.
The song was a commercial success, topping the Billboard Hot 100 chart and receiving critical acclaim for its heartfelt lyrics and Usher’s vocal performance. “U Got It Bad” is considered one of Usher’s signature songs and has remained a fan favorite since its release.
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.
