Top male R&B artist Usher (b. Usher Raymond IV, Chattanooga, TN) has grown from a teen pop sensation to a suave vocalist, becoming a veteran of the urban movement. Discovered at a talent show in Atlanta by LaFace Records, the 14 year old is signed to L.A. Reid’s label under his first name. A self-titled album is released in 1994, co-produced by Sean ‘Puffy’ Combs results in the first hit single ‘Think of You’. In 1995 he collaborates on various projects while doing promotional material for Coca Cola.
After finalising his education, Usher releases a second album ‘My Way’ where he is credited with part of the writing. Produced by Jermaine Dupri, Babyface and Sean Combs, the album displays a more mature R&B artist. The single ‘You Make Me Wanna’ becomes a transatlantic hit as does ‘Nice & Slow’. Raymond retires again to focus on an acting career while a live album is released. In 2001 his third studio album 8701 is released – the name a cue taken from its release date. The singles ‘Pop Ya Collar’ and ‘U Got It Bad’ proves the chartpower of Usher and his production team. He also contributes to Combs ‘I Need a Girl’ while further cinematic productions follow.
Tapping into the new Cruck & B fashion, Usher releases the single ‘Yeah!’ in early 2004 produced by Lil Jon. The album ‘Confessions’ displays a now mature R&B artist as composer, singer and producer. With further singles ‘Burn’ and Confessions Pt. II’ released Usher’s place a the high end of the R&B market seems guaranteed. A duet with Alicia Keys follows together with continuous success at the Grammy Awards.
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