Usher Raymond IV, a name synonymous with R&B excellence, has reigned as one of the most iconic and influential artists of the past few decades. With a career spanning over 25 years, Usher has delivered chart-topping hits, mesmerizing fans with his smooth vocals, impeccable dance moves, and undeniable charisma. From sultry ballads to electrifying club anthems, his music has dominated airwaves, dance floors, and playlists worldwide, cementing his status as a global superstar.
In this article, we dive into the crème de la crème of Usher’s illustrious discography—his top 10 most popular songs of all time. These tracks have not only defined his career but have also left an indelible mark on the music industry, influencing countless artists and shaping the sound of modern R&B and pop. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to his music, this list promises to take you on a nostalgic journey through unforgettable melodies, timeless lyrics, and unparalleled artistry.
From the seductive allure of “Nice & Slow” to the infectious energy of “Yeah!” and the heartfelt vulnerability of “U Got It Bad,” these songs are more than just hits—they’re cultural moments. Get ready to relive the magic of Usher’s greatest masterpieces!
1. Yeah! (2004)
“Yeah!” is one of those rare songs that doesn’t just top charts—it defines an entire moment in pop culture. Released in 2004 as the lead single from Usher’s massive Confessions album, this track brought together the irresistible energy of Lil Jon’s crunk production, Ludacris’ unforgettable verse, and Usher’s magnetic vocals. From the very first beat, it’s clear that “Yeah!” was made to set the dance floor on fire. The song’s call-and-response hook became instantly iconic, and its infectious energy made it a staple at clubs, parties, and radio stations across the globe. What set it apart was how it perfectly fused R&B smoothness with the raw edge of Southern hip-hop. Usher’s charisma, paired with the swagger of Ludacris and the adrenaline-fueled chants of Lil Jon, created a chemistry that couldn’t be ignored. “Yeah!” spent 12 consecutive weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned a Grammy for Best Rap/Sung Collaboration. More than just a chart success, the track became a cultural touchstone for early 2000s music fans. Whether you were grinding at a high school dance or blasting it in your car, “Yeah!” was the soundtrack of the era.
2. Burn (2004)
“Burn” is one of Usher’s most emotionally resonant tracks, capturing the deep pain of ending a relationship even when you know it’s the right thing to do. Released in 2004 as a follow-up to “Yeah!,” it showed a completely different side of Usher. Where “Yeah!” was bold and high-energy, “Burn” is quiet, reflective, and achingly sincere. The stripped-back production—featuring soft guitar strums and subtle piano—creates space for Usher’s voice to take center stage. And what a voice it is. He pours everything into the performance, delivering lines like “You know that it’s over / You know that it’s through” with the weight of someone who’s truly been there. The song’s universal message of heartbreak struck a chord with listeners around the world. “Burn” spent eight weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, proving that vulnerability could be just as powerful as bravado. It also reinforced Confessions as not just a commercial powerhouse, but an emotional journey through love, loss, and redemption. To this day, “Burn” remains one of Usher’s most beloved ballads and a masterclass in R&B storytelling.
3. My Boo (2004)
“My Boo” is a sweet, nostalgic duet that perfectly captures the feeling of first love. Released in 2004 as part of a deluxe edition of Confessions, the song features Alicia Keys alongside Usher in a tender back-and-forth that feels more like a conversation than a performance. Their chemistry is undeniable—both vocally and emotionally. The track tells the story of two people who’ve moved on with their lives but still hold a special place in their hearts for the one they loved when they were younger. It’s relatable, heartfelt, and filled with longing. The production is smooth and understated, giving space for the vocals to shine. Usher’s buttery tone blends seamlessly with Alicia’s rich, soulful delivery, creating a harmony that feels intimate and timeless. “My Boo” quickly climbed to the top of the charts and spent several weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. It resonated with anyone who’s ever looked back and wondered “what if.” More than just a duet, it’s a love letter to the kind of connection that never really fades—one that stays with you no matter how much time has passed.
4. U Got It Bad (2001)
“U Got It Bad” is the kind of slow jam that makes you stop whatever you’re doing and just feel. Released in 2001 as part of Usher’s 8701 album, this track is all about the consuming nature of love—or more accurately, obsession. From the first few notes, the mood is set with a sultry guitar riff and a minimalist beat that allows Usher’s emotional vocal delivery to shine. The lyrics speak directly to anyone who’s been so deep in love that they can’t eat, can’t sleep, and constantly think about that one person. Usher sings it with raw vulnerability, turning simple lines like “You got it bad when you’re out with someone but you keep on thinking ’bout somebody else” into a gut punch. The song hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and stayed there for weeks, solidifying Usher’s reputation as a master of emotional R&B. “U Got It Bad” isn’t just about romance—it’s about being completely consumed by your feelings, for better or worse. It’s the kind of song you play late at night when you’re missing someone, hoping they feel the same way too.
5. U Don’t Have to Call (2002)
“U Don’t Have to Call” marked a shift for Usher—from heartbreak to healing, from sorrow to swagger. Released in 2002 and produced by The Neptunes, the song is a breezy, upbeat track that celebrates independence and emotional recovery. It’s about realizing you don’t need to wait around for someone who’s not treating you right. With funky synths, tight drum patterns, and Pharrell Williams’ signature sonic touch, the production is full of energy and bounce. But it’s Usher’s voice—confident and effortlessly cool—that truly sells the message. Instead of wallowing, he’s moving on, going out, and living his life again. The lyrics, “Don’t leave your girl around me, true player for real,” give it a playful edge that made it a favorite on dance floors and radio playlists alike. The track earned Usher a Grammy for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance and remains one of his most empowering anthems. It’s not just a breakup song—it’s a celebration of freedom, fun, and self-worth. For anyone who’s ever decided to put themselves first after heartbreak, “U Don’t Have to Call” is the ultimate soundtrack.
6. Nice & Slow (1998)
“Nice & Slow” is the song that cemented Usher as a rising star in late ’90s R&B. Released in 1998 as the second single from his My Way album, this sensual slow jam was Usher’s first No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100—and for good reason. The song is a masterclass in building intimacy, both musically and lyrically. With its soft guitar strumming, steady tempo, and whispered vocals, “Nice & Slow” captures the essence of romantic tension and anticipation. Usher’s delivery is smooth and confident, guiding listeners through a story of seduction with lines like “It’s seven o’clock on the dot, I’m in my drop-top, cruising the streets.” The track helped define Usher’s image as a sensitive yet self-assured lover, and its success paved the way for his long career as an R&B heartthrob. “Nice & Slow” quickly became a favorite among fans and a go-to for date nights and slow dances. More than just a love song, it was a cultural moment—a defining piece of late-‘90s R&B that still holds up today with its irresistible blend of romance, rhythm, and charisma.
7. Confessions Part II (2004)
“Confessions Part II” is arguably one of Usher’s most personal and revealing songs, and it played a major role in making Confessions one of the best-selling R&B albums of all time. Released in 2004, the song dives into themes of betrayal, guilt, and the painful aftermath of infidelity. It’s essentially a musical confessional booth—Usher takes on the role of a man who has made serious mistakes and is now facing the consequences. The storytelling is vivid and raw, painting a picture of a man breaking the news to his partner that not only did he cheat, but the other woman is pregnant. The track’s moody production and somber tone enhance the feeling of emotional turmoil, and Usher’s performance is full of remorse and sincerity. Listeners were drawn to the honesty of the song, speculating whether it mirrored Usher’s real life, which only added to the intrigue. “Confessions Part II” hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and helped solidify Usher’s status as a risk-taker in R&B. It’s a song about facing up to your worst mistakes, and its emotional weight continues to resonate with fans years later.
8. OMG (2010)
When Usher released “OMG” in 2010, he wasn’t just keeping up with the times—he was leading the charge into the era of electro-pop-infused R&B. Produced by and featuring will.i.am, this high-energy track brought Usher’s smooth vocals into a world of pulsating synths, booming bass, and stadium-sized hooks. The result? A club-ready anthem that took over dance floors around the globe. With lyrics that describe the dizzying effect a woman has on him—“Honey got a booty like pow, pow, pow”—the song balances playful lust with pop polish. The chorus, simple but effective, practically begs to be shouted along with, and that “Oh my gosh” hook proved irresistible. “OMG” was a major commercial success, topping charts in multiple countries and introducing Usher to a younger, more pop-leaning audience. It also marked one of his most successful international releases. More than just a party song, “OMG” signaled Usher’s ability to evolve with the sound of the times without losing his core appeal. It was fresh, it was fun, and it showed that even after more than a decade in the game, Usher could still dominate the charts with style.
9. You Make Me Wanna… (1997)
“You Make Me Wanna…” was the song that put Usher on the map as a serious contender in R&B. Released in 1997 as the lead single from his second album My Way, the song tells a relatable and complicated story: being in a relationship but falling for someone else. With its sparse guitar riff, smooth production, and Usher’s silky voice, the track was a fresh take on the traditional love triangle narrative. It felt mature, even though Usher was just 19 at the time, and showcased his ability to deliver nuanced emotions in a restrained and classy way. The lyrics—“You make me wanna leave the one I’m with and start a new relationship with you”—are bold but honest, and they resonated deeply with audiences. The song peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned Usher his first Grammy nomination, launching his career into a new level. It remains one of his most iconic tracks, a perfect blend of storytelling, vocal finesse, and sleek 90s production. “You Make Me Wanna…” isn’t just a hit; it’s the moment the world realized Usher wasn’t just another R&B singer—he was a star.
10. DJ Got Us Fallin’ In Love (2010)
“DJ Got Us Fallin’ In Love” is the kind of song that makes you want to drop everything and hit the dance floor. Released in 2010 and featuring rapper Pitbull, this track was tailor-made for the club scene. With its pulsating beat, synth-driven melody, and catchy chorus, it combines the heart of R&B with the energy of dance-pop. The lyrics are simple but effective: it’s about finding love—maybe just for the night—under the flashing lights of a party. Usher’s vocals soar over the high-energy production, delivering lines like “So dance, dance like it’s the last, last night of your life” with urgency and charm. Pitbull’s verse adds a global flair and amps up the party vibe. The song became an international hit, charting in dozens of countries and cementing Usher’s ability to stay relevant in an evolving pop landscape. It was one of the highlights of his Versus EP and introduced a new generation of fans to his music. “DJ Got Us Fallin’ In Love” is more than a dance anthem—it’s a feel-good reminder that sometimes, all it takes is a song and a dance to make you believe in love again.
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.
