Usher Raymond IV is one of the best-selling R&B artists of all time, with over 80 million records sold worldwide. Discovered as a teenager on Star Search, he signed with LaFace Records at just 14 and released his self-titled debut in 1994. It was his second album, My Way (1997), that made him a superstar, driven by the smash singles "You Make Me Wanna..." and "Nice & Slow." The album established his signature blend of smooth vocals, sharp choreography, and undeniable charisma.
The 2004 album Confessions cemented Usher's place in pop music history, selling over 20 million copies and producing four consecutive #1 singles, including the Lil Jon-produced "Yeah!" which became one of the decade's defining anthems. As a performer, Usher's live shows are legendary — combining athletic dance moves with vocal precision that few can match. His 2024 Super Bowl halftime performance and Las Vegas residency proved his enduring relevance across three decades of pop and R&B. He also played a pivotal role in launching Justin Bieber's career.
13 years old. Talent executive LA Reid discovered him after seeing him perform and signed him to LaFace Records. He released his self-titled debut album in 1994 at just 15.
The album produced four consecutive #1 singles in the US — the first album to achieve that since Michael Jackson's Thriller in 1983. Confessions went on to sell over 20 million copies worldwide.
Justin Bieber. Usher's manager spotted a 13-year-old Bieber's YouTube videos, introduced him to Usher and LA Reid, and helped sign him to RBMG Records in 2008. Usher has described mentoring Bieber as one of his proudest achievements.
His 13-minute performance at Super Bowl LVIII in Las Vegas featured one of the most star-studded guest lineups in halftime show history — including Alicia Keys, Lil Jon, Ludacris, H.E.R., and will.i.am — and became the most-streamed Super Bowl halftime show at the time of broadcast.