Usher performs at the 2022 Something In The Water Music Festival Source: Paul Morigi / Getty
Black Music Month closed out with a bang. Iconic R&B superstar Usher visited NPR’s office studio and performed a six-song, 25-minute set to close out their Black Music Month series.
Accompanied by his band and singers Eric Bellinger and Vedo, the Chattanooga/Atlanta crooner performed hits like ‘You Make Me Wanna,’ ‘Confessions Pt. II,’ ‘Superstar,’ and more. Usher’s ‘Tiny Desk Concert’ is among the first few performances to be held at the physical tiny desk since the series went on pause in June 2020 due to global pandemic.
The performance was very special for Usher. He released his first major hit, ‘My Way,’ 25 years ago. It was the lead single and also the title track of his sophomore LP. He performed the track to close out his set after performing ‘Nice & Slow.’
The latter track is from the same album but was later released as a standalone single and earned him his first placement atop the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Fans couldn’t help but to acknowledge how good Usher sounded and how he would basically crush anyone in a Verzuz battle.
Usher said his microphone is ON.
never ever compare this man to these other r&b male singers — he is in a class of his own.
pic.twitter.com/2f7EMmgQiM— me season!
(@evelynvwoodsen) June 30, 2022
You gotta be INSANE to willingly do a #Verzuz against Usher cause ain’t nobody out singing him. pic.twitter.com/lYYlZTrij4
— MBali
(@TheJessieWoo) June 30, 2022
Usher saw these new male singers struggling and decided to embarrass them even more
— Zito (@_Zeets) June 30, 2022
Usher’s “Superstar” just has everything it takes to be a perfect song. Imagery. Adoration. A well-Used sample. A CONSTRUCTED bridge. Not too slow and not too fast. Everything
— AGD, MSEd (@TheLexGabrielle) June 30, 2022
Do yourself a favor and watch Usher’s TinyDesk performance, he showed why he has nothing to prove when it comes to this R&B shit.
— Ahmed
/Depressed Lakers Fan (@big_business_) June 30, 2022
In 1979, President Jimmy Carter decreed that the month of June would be Black Music Month. The month is dedicated to celebrating African American music and musicians that have helped the country to dance, express their faith through song, march against injustice, and defend the country’s enduring promise of freedom and opportunity for all.
Usher wrapped up NPR’s celebration of Black Music Month in an electric fashion. Denzel Curry (whose concert aired June 29), Ravyn Lenae, and Maverick City Music also graced the office this month. In addition, NPR also broadcasted remote performances from FKA Twigs, Larry June, J’Nai Bridges, Monica, Naira Marley, James Francies, and Adekunle Gold to celebrate.
Did you enjoy Usher’s Tiny Desk Concert as much as we did? What was your favorite song that he performed? Let us know in the comments!
SEE ALSO:
The Best Moments From The 2022 BET Awards [VIDEO]
Jennifer Hudson Becomes Second Black Woman To Reach Elite EGOT Status With 2022 Tony Award
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