R&B legacy: Usher's Super Bowl halftime show was one for the books

Published February 12th, 2024 - 07:34 GMT
Usher celebrated 30 years of R&B excellence at the 2024 Super Bowl halftime show. (Timothy A. Clary/ AFP)
Usher celebrated 30 years of R&B excellence at the 2024 Super Bowl halftime show. (Timothy A. Clary/ AFP)
Highlights
Usher's Super Bowl halftime show brought skates, abs, famous friends and a spectacular R&B legacy.

Usher delivered a dazzling performance at the 2024 Super Bowl halftime show, celebrating his 30-year career in music and bringing some of his famous friends along for the ride.

The R&B legend, who has sold over 80 million records worldwide and won eight Grammy awards, took the stage at the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, where he has been hosting a sold-out residency since 2022.

The 13-minute show kicked off with Usher descending from the ceiling on a throne, surrounded by a marching band and Vegas dancers. He then launched into a medley of his hits, including "Caught Up", "U Don't Have to Call", "Superstar", and "Love in This Club". He was joined by Alicia Keys, who played the piano and sang her song "If I Ain't Got You" before dueting with Usher on their 2004 collaboration "My Boo". Usher paid tribute to his mentor and friend, the late Michael Jackson, by wearing a single glove and performing some of his signature moves.

The show continued with more surprises, as Usher brought out H.E.R., who played the guitar and sang her song "Damage" before joining Usher on his 2010 smash "DJ Got Us Fallin' in Love". Next, Usher was joined by Jermaine Dupri, Lil Jon, and Ludacris, who helped him turn up the energy with their club anthems "Turn Down for What", "Yeah!", and "Lovers and Friends". Usher then showed off his roller skating skills, gliding across the stage while singing "OMG" with will.i.am, who also made a cameo appearance in 2011 when Usher performed with the Black Eyed Peas.

Usher closed the show with an emotional rendition of "Burn", one of his biggest hits from his classic album "Confessions", which turned 20 this year. He dedicated the song to his mother, who was his first manager and supported him throughout his career. He also thanked his mother and fans for their love and loyalty, saying "They said I wouldn't make it, but look at me now".

Usher's Super Bowl halftime show honored his influences, collaborators, and peers, creating a memorable musical experience for the millions of viewers who tuned in. Usher's Super Bowl halftime show was truly one for the books.

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