On February 11, 2024, Usher Raymond became the latest American artist to perform at a NFL Super Bowl final match, a fantastic new milestone in his three-decade R&B music career run.
Fresh off his 100-show Las Vegas residency in December 2023, Usher got on the 2024 Super Bowl halftime stage and performed some of his biggest hit songs. And as the 45-year-old gave as good of a performance as we’d expect, we couldn’t help thinking about these particular moments.
A tribute to Michael Jackson?
Usher took off one of the white gloves he wore at the start of the show. Did he just salute the late King of POP?
His choice of special guests
Unlike Rihanna in 2023, Usher surprised the audience with a guitar performance by H.E.R, and appearances from Alicia Keys and Ludacris. Then Lil Jon did Turn Down for What? after a collab performance of Yeah!
But no Justin Bieber?
As of last week, rumours had spread like wildfire that Usher planned to bring his mentee, Justin Bieber, up on stage. So why were JB and his wife watching the performance from their VIP box instead?
And what was that dance with Alicia Keys?
What’s with Mr Raymond and getting physical with women in relationships? The way he and Alicia Keys rocked each other during their performance almost made us forget Ms. Keys is married to someone else.
Skating on stage?
Usher turned the stage into a skating rink. Forget walking so others can fly; did Rihanna suspend herself in the air last year so that Usher can skate his way to success this year?
Hold on! Have you seen our Valentine Special yet? We brought back three couples – one now with kids, one now married and the last, still best friends – to share how their relationships have evolved in the last five years. Watch the first episode below:
Decades of hit songs
Usher performed 11 songs across decades, flexing his multi-generational greatness. And it was a super nostalgic experience for us 90s kids.
Let’s talk about the Pastor Usher moment
When Usher told the audience, “God answers prayers,” we couldn’t help wondering just how long he’s been fasting and praying to perform at the Super Bowl.
