Discover lesser-known facts about Usher, from his early mentorship in New York to his impressive collection of over 300 awards. Get insights into his activism, philanthropy, and successful touring career.
Usher's Early Mentorship and Rise to Fame
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Usher's journey to stardom began at a young age when his mother moved to Atlanta, Georgia, in search of better opportunities for him. It was there that he caught the attention of a talent scout who introduced him to legendary producer Antonio 'L.A.' Reid. Impressed by Usher's talent, Reid signed him on the spot.
However, Usher faced a setback when his voice changed due to puberty after recording one of his first songs. Luckily, a young and up-and-coming producer named Sean 'Puffy' Combs recognized his potential and asked Reid to send Usher to New York for training. Usher moved in with Combs, witnessing the rockstar lifestyle firsthand and ultimately shaping his own unique style.
Usher's Journey in the Entertainment Industry
Usher's career extends beyond music, as he has also made a mark in the acting world. After releasing his second album, he made his acting debut on the American sitcom Moesha and joined the cast of the soap opera The Bold and the Beautiful. He went on to appear in several films, including Robert Rodriguez's The Faculty.
One of Usher's notable acting performances was in the sports biopic Hands of Stone, where he portrayed iconic boxer 'Sugar' Ray Leonard. Despite receiving mixed reviews, Usher showcased his acting chops and even received praise from Leonard himself. While Usher has mostly focused on his music career, his foray into acting added another dimension to his artistic repertoire.
Usher's Impressive Awards and Achievements
Usher's talent has been recognized and celebrated throughout his career, with over 300 awards under his belt. He has won eight Grammy Awards, 18 Billboard Music Awards, and 8 American Music Awards. In 2014, he was acknowledged as one of the most awarded recording artists of all time.
His accolades extend beyond music, as he has been inducted into the Georgia Music Hall of Fame and received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Usher's immense success and recognition in the industry are a testament to his dedication and undeniable talent.
Usher's Activism and Philanthropy
Usher has been actively involved in politics and activism, particularly in the mid-2000s. He launched the 'Change in the South' campaign in support of then-presidential hopeful Barack Obama in 2007. His commitment to various causes led to his selection as part of the Presidential Committee for Arts and Humanities of the United States to Cuba, where he aimed to strengthen cultural ties between the two countries.
In addition to his activism, Usher is also known for his philanthropic work. He founded the New Look Foundation, which focuses on empowering youth through education and leadership development. His extensive philanthropic efforts earned him the President's Volunteer Service Award in 2008 and the Freedom Award from the National Rights Museum for his advocacy for equality.
Usher's Remarkable Touring Career
Usher's live performances have captivated audiences around the world. He has headlined six major tours, starting with the Evolution 8701 Tour in 2002. Critics and fans alike have compared his stage presence to that of the King of Pop, Michael Jackson.
In recent years, Usher has also embarked on successful residencies, including one at the Colosseum at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. These residencies have allowed him to showcase his talent and connect with fans on a more intimate level. In 2023, he will be returning to Dolby Live to commemorate the 25th anniversary of his influential album My Way.
Usher's Highly Anticipated Super Bowl Halftime Show
Usher's upcoming headlining performance at the Super Bowl Halftime Show has generated significant excitement among fans. It is expected to be a retrospective of his illustrious career, spanning from his self-titled debut album to his album Hard II Love, released six years ago.
While Usher recently surprised fans with his new album Coming Home, it is unlikely that he will perform any of the new songs during the show. Nevertheless, his Halftime Show promises to be a memorable celebration of his contributions to the music industry.