Few artists have left an indelible mark on the world of music quite like Usher. With a career spanning over three decades, Usher Raymond IV has consistently delivered chart-topping hits that have defined the sound of R&B and pop music. From soulful ballads to infectious dance anthems, his versatile voice and captivating stage presence have made him a global sensation. Whether you first heard him serenade the world with “Nice & Slow” or watched him dominate the dance floor with “Yeah!”, Usher’s influence is undeniable.
In this article, we dive into the top 10 most popular Usher songs of all time. These are the tracks that not only topped the charts but also became timeless anthems, solidifying Usher’s legacy as one of the greatest entertainers of his generation. Get ready to relive some of his biggest hits—songs that made us fall in love, broke our hearts, and had us dancing all night long. From slow jams to club bangers, these Usher classics continue to resonate with fans worldwide. So, turn up the volume and let’s count down the best songs from the King of R&B!
1. “Yeah!” (featuring Lil Jon and Ludacris) — 2004
“Yeah!” is undeniably one of Usher’s biggest hits, and it’s easy to see why. Released in 2004 as part of his iconic Confessions album, this track took the world by storm. With its infectious blend of crunk, R&B, and hip-hop, “Yeah!” became an instant club anthem. The collaboration with Lil Jon and Ludacris was explosive, with Lil Jon’s signature production style and Ludacris delivering a memorable verse. The song dominated charts globally, including a remarkable 12 weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. Its pulsating beat and catchy hook made it a staple at parties and still gets people moving today. “Yeah!” remains a defining song of the 2000s and solidified Usher’s position at the top of the music world.
2. “Burn” — 2004
When “Burn” dropped in 2004, it showcased Usher’s ability to tap into deep emotional vulnerability. As another standout from the Confessions album, “Burn” was a soulful, heart-wrenching ballad about a relationship coming to a painful end. The slow grooves, paired with Usher’s smooth falsetto, created an atmosphere of melancholy and longing. The track reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, where it stayed for eight weeks. “Burn” resonated with listeners going through breakups, making it one of Usher’s most beloved and relatable tracks. It’s a song that aches with emotion, solidifying Usher’s ability to deliver powerful ballads.
3. “My Boo” (with Alicia Keys) — 2004
“My Boo” is a timeless duet that brought together two R&B powerhouses—Usher and Alicia Keys. Released in 2004 as part of the deluxe edition of Confessions, this song became an instant classic. The chemistry between Usher and Keys is palpable, as they sing about a past love that lingers in their hearts. The smooth production, combined with their flawless vocal harmonies, made “My Boo” a huge hit, topping the Billboard Hot 100 for six weeks. Whether you’ve experienced a nostalgic romance or not, this track tugs at the heartstrings, making it one of Usher’s most enduring songs.
4. “U Got It Bad” — 2001
Released in 2001 as part of Usher’s 8701 album, “U Got It Bad” cemented his reputation as an R&B sensation. The song’s sultry, slow jam feel paired with Usher’s impassioned vocals made it an instant hit. “U Got It Bad” speaks to the agony of being in love, especially when that love is unrequited or troubled. Its smooth melody and heartfelt lyrics connected with listeners, propelling it to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. The music video, featuring then-girlfriend Chilli from TLC, only added to the song’s appeal, making it one of Usher’s most memorable tracks.
5. “DJ Got Us Fallin’ in Love” (featuring Pitbull) — 2010
In 2010, Usher took a bold, genre-blending turn with “DJ Got Us Fallin’ in Love.” Featuring Pitbull, this dance-pop banger was a departure from his usual R&B sound, but it proved Usher’s versatility. The song, with its pulsating beats and infectious chorus, became a nightclub favorite worldwide. Released as part of the Versus EP, “DJ Got Us Fallin’ in Love” was a commercial success, peaking in the top 10 on multiple international charts. Its high-energy vibe and catchy lyrics made it a summer anthem, securing Usher’s place in the pop and dance music scene.
6. “Love in This Club” (featuring Young Jeezy) — 2008
“Love in This Club” was Usher’s triumphant return to the music scene in 2008, following the success of Confessions. Featuring Atlanta rapper Young Jeezy, this sultry track blended R&B with a club vibe, resulting in a hit that dominated the airwaves. Usher’s smooth vocals paired with the hypnotic production made “Love in This Club” an irresistible song for listeners. The track reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and became synonymous with late-night parties and flirtations on the dance floor. It’s a seductive anthem that shows off Usher’s talent for seamlessly crossing genres.
7. “Nice & Slow” — 1998
“Nice & Slow” takes us back to 1998, a pivotal moment in Usher’s career when he was transitioning from teen heartthrob to mature R&B star. This slow jam, from his second album My Way, is a sensual masterpiece that highlights Usher’s smooth vocals and seductive charm. The song’s mellow vibe and romantic lyrics made it a favorite for slow dances and intimate moments. “Nice & Slow” became Usher’s first No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100, marking the beginning of his ascent to superstardom. It’s a classic that remains one of his most beloved songs to this day.
8. “Confessions Part II” — 2004
“Confessions Part II” is one of Usher’s most personal tracks, and it resonated deeply with fans when it was released in 2004. The song, from the Confessions album, dives into the emotional turmoil of confessing to infidelity and the consequences that follow. The sincerity in Usher’s voice, combined with the soulful production, made this track a standout. “Confessions Part II” reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, and its raw honesty made it a fan favorite. The song’s vulnerability and storytelling continue to make it a significant part of Usher’s catalog.
9. “U Remind Me” — 2001
“U Remind Me” was a breakthrough moment for Usher in 2001, as it earned him his first Grammy Award for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance. This track, from the 8701 album, is a smooth, mid-tempo jam that tells the story of a man who’s hesitant to get involved with someone because she reminds him of a past lover. The catchy melody, combined with Usher’s flawless vocal delivery, helped “U Remind Me” become a No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100. It’s a perfect example of Usher’s ability to blend soulful lyrics with irresistible beats.
10. “OMG” (featuring will.i.am) — 2010
“OMG” marked Usher’s foray into the world of electro-pop, and it did so with a bang. Released in 2010, this collaboration with will.i.am became a global phenomenon. The song’s infectious beat, combined with its unforgettable “Oh my gosh” hook, made it a dance floor staple. “OMG” topped the charts in several countries, including the Billboard Hot 100 in the U.S. Its futuristic production and catchy lyrics showcased Usher’s ability to adapt to the evolving music landscape, making it one of his most successful songs of the 2010s.
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.
