Usher, one of the most influential artists of his generation, delivered a stunning performance at the Super Bowl LVIII halftime show on Sunday, February 11, 2024. The R&B star, who has sold over 80 million records worldwide and won eight Grammy Awards, showcased his impressive vocals, dancing skills, and hit songs in a 13-minute show that left the audience at the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas and millions of viewers at home mesmerized.
The show, which was produced by Roc Nation and Apple Music, featured special guests Alicia Keys, will.i.am, Ludacris, and Jermaine Dupri, as well as a large ensemble of dancers, acrobats, and musicians. Usher opened the show with his 2004 song “Caught Up”, wearing a white suit and surrounded by dancers in colorful outfits. He then transitioned to his 2008 club anthem “Love in This Club”, where he was joined by will.i.am, who rapped his verse from the remix version.
The next segment of the show was a tribute to Usher’s ballads, starting with his 2001 hit “U Got It Bad”, which he sang while sitting on a couch and playing the guitar. He then invited Alicia Keys to the stage, who performed her 2003 song “If I Ain’t Got You” on a red piano. The two then duetted on their 2004 collaboration “My Boo”, recreating the chemistry and nostalgia of their original music video.
Usher then switched gears to his more upbeat songs, starting with his 2004 confessional “Burn”, which he sang while walking through a ring of fire. He then brought out Ludacris and Jermaine Dupri for their 2004 smash “Yeah!”, which had the crowd dancing and singing along. Usher then closed the show with his 2010 hit “OMG”, which featured a dazzling display of pyrotechnics, lasers, and fireworks.
Usher’s halftime show was widely praised by critics and fans alike, who hailed it as one of the best in Super Bowl history. Rolling Stone called it “a spectacular display of music and dance that showcased Usher’s versatility, charisma, and legacy”. Billboard described it as “a masterclass in pop performance that proved why Usher is one of the greatest entertainers of all time”. The Guardian said it was “a flawless and thrilling show that celebrated Usher’s career and influence”.
Usher, who is currently on his Las Vegas residency at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace, thanked his fans and collaborators on social media after the show. He wrote: “Thank you to everyone who made this dream come true. It was an honor and a privilege to perform at the Super Bowl halftime show. I hope you enjoyed it as much as I did. Love you all.”