Special 'Coming Home' Celebration to Honor Usher with Key to Hometown
Usher, commemorating his legacy, will be present at a celebration in Chattanooga, Tennessee, his hometown, later this month to receive the city's keys. We discuss it here!
Usher at the 2014 MTV Video Music Awards at the Forum, Los Angeles, CA on August 24, 2014
Photo cred: Featureflash Photo Agency
By: Joshua Martin
R&B superstar Usher Raymond is set to receive a key to his hometown in a special ‘Coming Home’ celebration on Saturday, April 20th.
In partnership with UTC (the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga) and Chattanooga Business Elite (CBE), the city of Chattanooga and Hamilton County will host the special community-wide ‘Coming Home’ ceremony for their hometown hero.
In a statement, Usher thanked his childhood home for the continuous support and for providing the spark that ignited his music career.
“The city of Chattanooga provided a spark that ignited the fire in me to pursue my dreams as a singer and I’m thankful for the support I received from so many great family members, friends, and mentors so early in my journey. Thank you for the honor, I look forward to celebrating with you all.”
Prior to his iconic Super Bowl Halftime Show, Mr. Raymond received the key to the city of Las Vegas for his musical contributions to the city with his three year-residency. Prompting Chattanooga Mayor Tim Kelly to ecstatically praise the talented artist's many accomplishments.
“The pride in Chattanooga during Usher’s iconic Super Bowl halftime show was palpable. We know as a smaller city we punch way above our weight when it comes to the talent our city produces, and Usher is one of the finest examples of that talent. He’s going to feel the love when he comes home to McKenzie Arena on April 20th. I look forward to seeing y’all there.”
Hamilton County Mayor Weston Wamp also spoke highly of Usher.
“From his days at Orchard Knob and Dalewood to the pinnacle of the music industry, Usher is one the great talents who have come through our public school system. I hope other young boys and girls across Hamilton County see Usher’s rise to the world stage and know that they have the same potential.”
The free celebration will be held at the McKenzie Arena on the beautiful campus of The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. Tickets are required for entry however and are limited to only two per person. 3,500 tickets will be available online beginning Friday April 12th at 10 a.m. ET on a first come, first served basis.
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Usher Receives The Key To The City of Las Vegas
On October 17th, Las Vegas officially declared it Usher Raymond Day, presenting him with the key to the city as a testament to his unwavering dedication and talent. We discuss it here!
Usher receives the key to the city of Las Vegas.
Photo Credit: Yahoo!Entertainment
By: Gentel Sharrie
R&B icon Usher Raymond has once again etched his name into the books of history and the City of Las Vegas is at the heart of it all. On October 17th, Las Vegas officially declared it Usher Raymond Day, presenting him with the key to the city as a testament to his unwavering dedication and talent.
Usher's Las Vegas connection goes beyond the key to the city. Currently, he's rocking the entertainment capital with his My Way residency, delivering electrifying performances night after night, and fans can't get enough. The excitement doesn't stop there. The king of R&B will be taking center stage in Las Vegas for an unforgettable halftime show at the 2024 Super Bowl.
Overflowing with gratitude, Usher took to his social media to share his feelings.
Usher's journey in the music industry began in the late 1990s when his breakthrough album, My Way, sent shockwaves through the world of R&B. Hit singles like Nice & Slow and You Make Me Wanna catapulted him to superstardom, setting the stage for a career that would redefine modern music.
His music, a harmonious fusion of R&B, pop, and hip-hop, has won the hearts of millions. From chart-toppers like Yeah!, Burn, My Boo, to soulful ballads like U Got It Bad Usher's music is a sonic journey that transcends genres.
USHER Receives The Key To Las Vegas
Usher's star has continued to rise over the past two decades, earning him an impressive eight Grammy Awards. He's more than just a singer; he's an entertainer, captivating audiences with his angelic vocals and unforgettable live performances.
In the heart of Las Vegas, Usher Raymond stands as a symbol of talent, dedication, and an undying commitment to the world of music. Whether you've been a fan since My Way or just caught one of his unforgettable Vegas shows, one thing is certain: Usher's legacy continues to shine brighter than ever, and the mark he has made on the city is irrefutable.
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Usher Set to Headline Super Bowl LVIII Halftime Show in Las Vegas
The NFL has confirmed that grammy award winning artist, Usher, is confirmed as the headlining act for the Super Bowl Halftime Show in 2024, which will be presented by Apple Music. We discuss it here!
Usher was present at the Philips Arena in Atlanta, Georgia, for the V103 Winterfest Concert, held on December 10, 2016
Credit: Jamie Lamor Thompson/Shutterstock
By: Omar Cook
The NFL has confirmed that grammy award winning artist, Usher, is confirmed as the headlining act for the Super Bowl Halftime Show in 2024, which will be presented by Apple Music. This highly anticipated performance is scheduled for February 11, 2024, and will be held at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. This will be huge for the city of Las Vegas as this will be the first time the Super Bow has been held there.
“It’s an honor of a lifetime to finally check a Super Bowl performance off my bucket list. I can’t wait to bring the world a show unlike anything else they’ve seen from me before,” Usher stated. “Thank you to the fans and everyone who made this opportunity happen. I’ll see you real soon.”
With a career spanning several decades, he has achieved a multitude of chart-topping hits, including iconic songs like "Yeah!," "Burn," and "Confessions Part II." These songs not only dominated the charts but also became anthems of their time.
His remarkable success is evidenced by the numerous accolades he has garnered throughout his career. Usher boasts a collection of prestigious awards, including multiple Grammy Awards, Billboard Music Awards, and MTV Video Music Awards. His innovative music videos and electrifying live performances have consistently captivated audiences worldwide.
“Usher is an icon whose music has left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape throughout his career, we couldn’t be more excited to have him headline this year’s Apple Music Super Bowl Halftime Show,” stated Seth Dudowsky, the head of music for the NFL.
LAS VEGAS. APPLE MUSIC HALFTIME SHOW. #SBLVIII
— Usher Raymond IV (@Usher) September 24, 2023
———@nfl, @rocnation, @nfloncbs pic.twitter.com/kezBpyabAD
This will be the fifth year of a partnership between the NFL and Roc Nation to produce the Halftime Show. The two parties made a deal in 2019 which has culminated in some amazing performances year after year. The previous shows include performances from Shakira and Jennifer Lopez (2020), The Weeknd (2021), a legendary Hip-Hop hip-hop show featuring Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige and Kendrick Lamar (2022), and Rihanna (2023).
This is the second year of the Super Bowl’s partnership with Apple Music after a 10 year sponsorship from Pepsi. The show is set to be produced by DPS, including executive producers Roc Nation and Jesse Collins. It will be directed by Hamish Hamilton.
Usher's influence extends beyond his chart achievements and awards; he has played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of contemporary R&B and pop music. His enduring impact on the industry and his ability to reinvent his sound have solidified his status as one of the most successful and influential artists of his generation.
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Usher's Vegas Residency: Memorable Moments & New Music Video 'Boyfriend'
Usher's My Way residency highlights viral moments and new single ‘Boyfriend’ featuring Keke Palmer in Las Vegas. We discuss it here!
Usher performs during My Way Residency at Dolby Theater in Park MGM Las Vegas.
Usher’s My Way Residency at the Dolby Theater inside of the Park MGM in Las Vegas has been the talk of the town since it began in 2022. With countless viral moments from his serenading fans and celebrities with his sultry vocals and love songs, he has every woman wanting to be in the front row at this show. Some of the internet's favorite girls like Kim Kardashian, Issa Rae, Taraji P. Henson, Saweetie, Kimora Lee Simmons, and Winnie Harlow get the Usher treatment. But the most talked about moment of the residency so far has been with our good sis, Keke Palmer.
The “pop moment” as the Grammy Award-winning artist calls it, caused some controversy about boundaries in relationships online but he has not fallen into the trap of negativity. After weeks of silence Usher finally shared her perspective on what has been going down at his iconic shows in Las Vegas with People Magazine.
“Every night I’m thinking about how the world now is going to react to this moment that I’ll have with whoever I’m choosing to sing to… but it was a pop moment, and it was fun to have at least conversation going, and we just keep it light. I don’t see anything negative happening in Las Vegas.” -Usher
Keeping that momentum and positive energy flowing R&B superstar teased a new single called ‘Boyfriend’ yesterday on social media. Guess who the leading lady is? That's right, the one and only Keke Palmer. The trailer is only about 15 seconds showing glimpses of both artists in different spaces with no words or sound. Once you arrive at 0:10 seconds of the video, you hear Usher's memorizing voice say “I heard your boyfriend is looking for me”. It’s safe to say the internet wins again and we are getting some new music from the King of R&B out of it.
Keke Palmer and Usher
Check out the official video for ‘Boyfriend’ right here on 247 Live Culture Magazine.
Usher - Boyfriend (Official Music Video)
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Usher to Receive Honorary Doctorate from Berklee College of Music
Berklee College of Music will award an honorary doctorate to Usher for his contributions to the music industry at their 2023 commencement ceremony. We discuss it here!
BEVERLY HILLS, CA. March 12, 2023: Usher at the 2023 Vanity Fair Oscar Party at the Wallis Annenberg Center. Picture: Paul Smith-Featureflash
By: Adonis Armstrong
Berklee College of Music has announced that they will be awarding an honorary doctorate to Usher at their 2023 commencement ceremony. The award recognizes Usher's significant contributions to the music industry as a singer, songwriter, producer, and philanthropist. The recipients of honorary doctorates this year will be honored for their significant contributions to the fields of music and philanthropy. The ceremony will take place in Boston, Massachusetts on May 13th.
Berklee College of Music will present honorary Doctor of Music degrees to @Usher, @Roberta_Flack, and @SonaJobarteh at our 2023 commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 13 at @AgganisArena. #berkleegrad2023 https://t.co/58tWgMefkj
— Berklee College of Music (@BerkleeCollege) April 19, 2023
Usher has been a prominent figure in the music industry for over two decades. He has sold over 75 million records worldwide, won numerous awards, and has been recognized for his impact on the industry by being inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame. Joining him in this years class is Roberta Flack, who has won four Grammy Awards, and Sona Jorbarteh, one of the best Kora musicians in the world, will all be given honorary doctorates in music. Everyone will have the chance to speak to the graduating class of 2023.
Berklee College of Music is known for its rigorous music education programs and has produced many successful musicians, including Quincy Jones, Esperanza Spalding, and John Mayer. Other musicians to achieve this award from Berklee College are Duke Ellington, Aretha Franklin, Celine Dion, B.B. King, Joni Mitchell, Chaka Khan, Willie Nelson, Missy Elliott, Ringo Starr, Gloria Estefan, and John Legend. The college awards honorary doctorates to individuals who have made significant contributions to the music industry and have inspired others through their work.
The awarding of an honorary doctorate to Usher is a confirmation to his impact on the music industry and his dedication to using his platform to create none stop heat. It serves as inspiration to aspiring musicians the importance of anything can be achieved with dedication.
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Alternative R&B: A Love Letter To Black Culture
Alternative R&B, which is at times referred to as Indie R&B, is a style of music that originated in the late 2000s, drawing inspiration from its sister-genre of contemporary R&B and serves as an abstract painting of our resilience and ability to transform. We discuss the rise of Alternative R&B here!
By: Cory Utsey
The genre of rhythm of blues, also known as R&B, has remained a staple in the Black community since it first took roots in the 1940s.
As a culmination of blues-inspired music, fast-paced rhythm, jazz, and light-hearted lyrical content, these songs hold the power to take listeners through a euphoric ride full of love, life, and redemption.
The term “rhythm and blues” was coined by music journalist Gerald “Jerry” Wexler in an attempt to replace the then-popular phrase “race music”, which was labeled offensive, while also marketing this new sound that had become popular in Black circles.
As the genre began to be associated with Black adolescence and late-night club scenes in the 1950s, it started to be seen as low-quality in comparison to Jazz music, which was regarded as a more refined form of Black expression. However, as R&B began to incorporate funk and soul, along with relatable lyrics about love, it was seen as more of an umbrella term for contemporary Black expression.
Nowadays, R&B and each of its sub-genres are easily accessible and highly revered-- especially alternative R&B.
Alternative R&B, which is at times referred to as Indie R&B, is a style of music that originated in the late 2000s, and it draws inspiration from its sister-genre of contemporary R&B.
Contemporary R&B combines elements of traditional R&B with lush, disco-like production and a distinct rhythm that is reminiscent of early hip-hop. It is best represented by artists such as Beyonce, Michael and Janet Jackson, and Usher.
Alternative R&B, on the other hand, takes some of those same attributes that are found in contemporary and traditional R&B, and fuses them with more prominent bass and vocals that almost feel like an echo.
As a versatile style of music, no two artists sound the same.
The airy, angel-like voices of singers like Brent Faiyaz or SZA can reel you in as they talk about toxic love and heartbreak, while Leven Kali and Syd might make you feel like you are seated on a cloud, so long as you tell them what you like. Solange might facilitate Black pride while providing a haven for different aspects of the Black experience, while Xavier Omar and Lucky Daye might have you aching for that “Old School” love.
The Internet - Girl (Official Video) ft. KAYTRANADA
Lucky Daye - How Much Can A Heart Take (Lyric Video) ft. Yebba
The subject matter varies from love and sex, to spiritual anecdotes and commentary on what is going on in the world.
If music has been a canvas for the expression of our pain, our joy, and our love, then alternative R&B is an abstract painting of our resilience and ability to transform.
Alternative R&B is the sister, the cousin and the love-child of the many different genres in which Black people have made a mark, and it is undoubtedly one of the most dynamic genres to top the charts in today’s day and age. It is a love letter to Black creativity and Black culture.
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Some Guy Named Lee Drops New Project "My Happy Place"
New York rapper “Some Guy Named Lee” dropped his 1st full length project called My Happy Place, check it out here!
By: Omar Cook
New York rapper “Some Guy Named Lee” dropped his 1st full length project called My Happy Place. The project features 11 tracks and is a good mix between rap and R&B vibes. The project features one of his most popular songs called “Grind” which samples Usher’s “Nice and Slow”. The title is self explanatory; Lee talks about things that bring him into a happy space, which is good for anyone needing something positive or motivating. This is a great project for an artist putting out there first full project. Lee is a multitalented artist that can mix vocals and lyricism together and his talent is shown through all 11 tracks. Check out the project below!