Usher Raymond IV, known mononymously as Usher, is an American singer, songwriter, dancer, and actor, born on October 14, 1978. Rising to fame in the late 1990s, Usher is renowned for his smooth voice, impressive dance moves, and charismatic stage presence. His breakthrough album, “My Way” (1997), included hits like “You Make Me Wanna…” and “Nice & Slow.” The 2004 album “Confessions” solidified his superstar status, featuring chart-toppers such as “Yeah!” and “Burn.” Usher has won numerous awards, including eight Grammy Awards, and is considered one of the best-selling music artists of all time. His influence extends beyond music into acting and philanthropy.
1. OMG (feat. will.i.am)
“OMG” is a song by American singer Usher featuring will.i.am of The Black Eyed Peas. Released in 2010, it is from Usher’s sixth studio album, “Raymond v. Raymond.” The track, produced by will.i.am, blends pop, dance, and R&B elements, and is known for its catchy hook and futuristic production. The song’s lyrics describe the excitement and awe of seeing an attractive woman. “OMG” achieved commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries, including the US Billboard Hot 100. The song’s infectious energy and club-ready beat made it a major hit and a staple of Usher’s live performances.
2. DJ Got Us Fallin’ In Love (feat. Pitbull)
“DJ Got Us Fallin’ In Love” by Usher, featuring Pitbull, is a high-energy dance-pop track released in 2010 as part of Usher’s *Versus* EP. Produced by Max Martin and Shellback, the song is characterized by its infectious beat, catchy chorus, and club-ready production. Usher’s smooth vocals blend seamlessly with Pitbull’s lively rap verse, creating a perfect party anthem. The lyrics celebrate the excitement of a night out, losing oneself in the music, and falling in love on the dance floor. “DJ Got Us Fallin’ In Love” became a commercial hit, reaching the top ten in multiple countries and solidifying its place as a staple of early 2010s pop music.
3. You Make Me Wanna…
“You Make Me Wanna…” by Usher is a breakthrough R&B single from his 1997 album *My Way*. Written by Usher, Jermaine Dupri, and Manuel Seal, the song features a smooth, mid-tempo groove and showcases Usher’s silky vocals. The lyrics express a romantic dilemma, where the protagonist is torn between his current relationship and a strong attraction to someone new. The song’s catchy melody, combined with its relatable themes of love and temptation, resonated with audiences, earning critical acclaim. “You Make Me Wanna…” topped the charts and helped establish Usher as a prominent figure in the R&B and pop music scene.
4. My Boo (feat. Alicia Keys)
“My Boo” is a duet by American artists Usher and Alicia Keys. Released in 2004, the song was included on the re-release of Usher’s fourth studio album, “Confessions,” and on Keys’ “The Diary of Alicia Keys” special edition. The track, produced by Jermaine Dupri, is a romantic R&B ballad that reminisces about a past relationship, with both singers reflecting on their first love. “My Boo” received critical acclaim and topped the US Billboard Hot 100 chart. The chemistry between Usher and Alicia Keys, combined with the song’s heartfelt lyrics and smooth production, made it a standout hit of the mid-2000s.
5. Burn
“Burn” by Usher is a soulful R&B ballad from his 2004 album *Confessions*. Written by Usher, Jermaine Dupri, and Bryan-Michael Cox, the song addresses the painful end of a relationship. Usher’s heartfelt delivery and the song’s emotive lyrics capture the feelings of regret and heartbreak. With its smooth production, featuring a gentle beat and melodic piano, “Burn” became an instant hit. It topped the Billboard Hot 100 and was praised for its emotional depth and Usher’s vocal performance. “Burn” solidified Usher’s reputation as a master of contemporary R&B, blending vulnerability with catchy melodies.
6. Confessions Part II
“Confessions Part II” is a song by Usher from his 2004 album “Confessions.” It’s the sequel to “Confessions Part I” and continues the narrative of personal revelations and emotional confessions. In this track, Usher addresses the fallout from his previous confessions, including the complexities of relationships and personal mistakes. The song is characterized by its smooth R&B production and introspective lyrics, highlighting Usher’s vocal range and storytelling abilities. “Confessions Part II” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 and further solidifying the album’s status as one of Usher’s most acclaimed works.
7. Nice & Slow
“Nice & Slow” by Usher is a classic R&B slow jam from his 1997 album *My Way*. Released as the second single, the song showcases Usher’s smooth vocals and romantic sensibilities. Written by Usher, Jermaine Dupri, and Manuel Seal, “Nice & Slow” features a sultry, laid-back beat and sensual lyrics that depict a romantic night with a loved one. The track’s memorable chorus and intimate vibe helped it become Usher’s first number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100. Praised for its production and Usher’s vocal delivery, “Nice & Slow” remains one of his signature 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, released in 2004 as part of Usher’s album “Confessions.” The song blends R&B with crunk and dance elements, reflecting Lil Jon’s signature production style. Known for its pulsating beat and catchy chorus, “Scream” showcases Usher’s dynamic vocal performance and Lil Jon’s distinctive hyped-up sound. The song’s lyrics revolve around having a great time and letting loose on the dance floor. “Scream” was a commercial success, contributing to the overall popularity of the “Confessions” album and becoming a staple in Usher’s live performances.
9. Yeah! (feat. Lil Jon & Ludacris)
“Yeah!” by Usher, featuring Lil Jon and Ludacris, is an electrifying crunk and R&B hit from Usher’s 2004 album *Confessions*. The song, produced by Lil Jon, blends energetic beats with infectious melodies, creating a perfect party anthem. Usher’s smooth vocals and Ludacris’s charismatic rap verse complement the track’s high-energy vibe. The lyrics celebrate a wild night out and the excitement of the club scene. “Yeah!” dominated the charts, spending twelve weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100, and became one of Usher’s biggest hits. Its catchy hook and dynamic production helped define the sound of mid-2000s pop and R&B music.
10. U Got It Bad
“U Got It Bad” is a song by Usher from his 2001 album “8701.” The track, written by Usher, Jermaine Dupri, and Bryan-Michael Cox, is a soulful R&B ballad that delves into the theme of intense romantic longing and heartache. The song’s smooth production, emotional lyrics, and Usher’s heartfelt vocal delivery capture the feeling of being deeply infatuated with someone who may not reciprocate the same level of affection. “U Got It Bad” was a major hit, topping the Billboard Hot 100 and receiving critical acclaim for its emotional depth and Usher’s vocal performance. It remains one of Usher’s signature songs.
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.
