The King of R&B, Usher is coming to the UK this month with his Past Present Future Tour. He’s sold over 100 million records worldwide, won 8 Grammy Awards and even has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He’s released 9 studio albums and brought us some of the biggest hits of the past 30 years. Ahead of Usher’s huge 10 night sold out residency at London’s O2 Arena, we’re turning our spotlight on some of his greatest live moments. 

2024 Super Bowl

Headlining the Super Bowl halftime show in Nevada last year, Usher delivered an extravaganza of a performance with hits spanning his illustrious career. It became the most-watched halftime in history after the first-ever show which featured Michael Jackson. Alongside his iconic dance moves, Usher brought out Alicia Keys, will.i.am, Lil Jon, Ludacris, and H.E.R. His set list included timeless hits such as Love in This Club, OMG and Yeah! Following his performance, Usher’s new album Coming Home shot to number 2 on the US Billboard 200 charts. 

Las Vegas Residency

Usher’s My Way Vegas residency ran from 2021 to 2023, beginning at the Colosseum at Caesars Palace before moving to Park MGM. The show was extended several times after it consistently sold out. Across the run, Usher brought out several guest performers including Ne-Yo, Big Sean and David Guetta. Alongside his hits, he mixed in new material from his forthcoming record, playing to a star-studded crowd that included guests like Zendaya and Jennifer Lopez. He even serenaded some celebs on the night – lucky special guests included Jessica Alba and Keke Palmer. Speaking about his stay in Vegas, he told reporters it was “magic times.” 

Tiny Desk

In June 2022, Usher helped US radio network NPR celebrate Black History Month by joining them for an iconic tiny desk concert. Performing six of his hits, including Confessions Pt II and My Way, he was joined by a full band and horn section, all dressed in black. Flanked by vocalists and fellow artists Vedo and Eric Bellinger he gave an epic, smooth and utterly captivating performance. Surely one of NPR’s slickest sessions, no office party will ever be the same again. “We’re celebrating Black Music Month, this is Black magic right here, baby,” said Usher. 

2010 American Music Awards

Award shows can sometimes feel a little stale and endless, but Usher brought the energy to the 2010 American Music Awards in Los Angeles. Joining Swedish House Mafia on stage, Usher delivered his hit single DJs Got Us Fallin’ In Love against a backdrop of flashing lights and pyrotechnics. A high octane performance, he unleashed his slick moves amidst a huge group of backing dancers and proved why he deserved to pick up that night’s award for Favorite Soul/R&B Male Artist.

2020 Grammy Awards

At the 2020 Grammys Awards in Los Angeles, eight-times winner Usher put his own music to the side to perform a tribute to Prince. He was joined on stage by artist and drummer Sheila E. who performed vocals and percussion, and FKA Twigs. Together, they covered three of Prince’s greatest hits; Little Red Corvette, When Doves Cry and Kiss. Usher has often expressed his admiration for the iconic and influential musician, and with similarly stylised moves and a perfect falsetto, it’s easy to see that love come to life in this joyful tribute.