In an exclusive interview with USA TODAY in Atlanta, Usher discussed the nuances of fatherhood, his efforts to discover fresh talent, and the burgeoning influence of K-pop, all while preparing to embark on his much-anticipated tour.

Usher Raymond is set to embark on his first major tour since 2015, following a phenomenal year that kicked off with an unparalleled performance at the Super Bowl 2024 Halftime Show held at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. This electrifying event celebrated his remarkable three-decade career in the entertainment industry, showcasing his extensive repertoire and star power.

During his show at the Footprint Center in downtown Phoenix on Sunday, Nov. 24, Usher delivered an exhilarating performance that rivaled the frenetic energy of his Super Bowl show, cramming nearly 40 songs into a thrilling two-hour set that left audiences buzzing with excitement.

Usher played 2 concerts at Footprint Center in Phoenix

This particular evening marked Usher’s second consecutive night captivating fans in Phoenix with an elaborate stage production, characterized by smooth choreography reminiscent of iconic Michael Jackson music videos. The performance featured mesmerizing roller skating sequences coupled with Usher’s magnetic charisma, transforming the concert into a dazzling spectacle that included numerous costume changes.

At one remarkable moment in the set, Usher captivated the audience by locking eyes with the camera for over three minutes, his infectious grin igniting a deafening roar from the crowd.

He then playfully announced, “Now if y’all don’t mind, I’d like to turn this thing up a little bit because I don’t know if you heard but I am the party.”

As he transitioned from “I Am the Party” into the romantic grooves of “There Goes My Baby” and “Can U Handle It?”, Usher sauntered through the audience, jovially encouraging female fans to pluck cherries from a glass he was holding, setting the stage for an exhilarating moment when two pole dancers joined him on the satellite platform.

Past Present Future Tour production is state of the art

The concert’s production quality was nothing short of exceptional, featuring an enormous LED cube that dominated the main stage. This innovative setup allowed for dynamic live action on dual levels, showcasing everything from a strip club scene to a cozy bedroom setup.

Staying true to the Past Present Future theme, the LED screens displayed a digitally rendered younger version of Usher, performing a medley of his early hits, including “Call Me a Mack,” “Can You Get Wit It,” and “Think of You.”

Further enhancing the futuristic aspect of the show, a segment featuring Usher in 2044 provided an amusing glimpse into his thoughts on retirement.

It was an artistically ambitious concept that was executed with flair and precision.

The most impressive thing about the Usher tour is the dancing

The most awe-inspiring feature of the concert was undoubtedly the dancing, particularly Usher’s own choreography. Even at 46 years old, his movements remain fluid, graceful, and captivating.

It was only a matter of time before Usher discarded his shirt yet again, as he did in his Super Bowl performance, delivering an emotionally charged display that perfectly underscored the sultry essence of his most intimate ballads.

The setlist brilliantly highlighted tracks from his latest album, “Coming Home,” while simultaneously reflecting on his illustrious musical journey, including chart-topping classics like “You Make Me Wanna…,” “Nice & Slow,” “U Got It Bad,” “Burn,” “Confessions Part II,” “My Boo,” “Love in This Club,” “OMG,” “DJ’s Got Us Falling in Love,” and “Climax.”

The evening reached an exhilarating climax with the rousing finale, a double punch of the iconic hits “Yeah!” and “Without You,” following the resurgence of the standout track from “Coming Home,” “Good God.”

This performance was a quintessential display of Usher’s artistry, proving him to be a cherished entertainer who continues to dominate the stage with unparalleled skill and charisma.

Usher tour setlist: All the songs he played in 1st of 2 Phoenix concerts

Here’s every song that made the setlist when the Past Present Future Tour played Footprint Center on Sunday, Nov. 24.

• “Coming Home”
• “Hey Daddy (Daddy’s Home)”
• “BIG”
• “Call Me A Mack” / “Think of You” / “Can U Get Wit It” (Medley Mix)
• “My Way”
• “U Make Me Wanna”
• “8701 Interlude”
• “U Remind Me”
• “Caught Up”
• “Yeah (Snippet)”
• “Don’t Waste My Time”
• “ATL Roller Skate Medley”
• “Love in This Club”
• “Tell Me”
• “New Flame”
• “Margiela”
• “Party”
• “Lil Freak”
• “Lovers and Friends”
• “Nice & Slow”
• “U Got It Bad”
• “Climax”
• “Burn”
• “Confessions”
• “Confessions Part II”
• “OMG”
• “DJ Got Us Fallin’ in Love”
• “Superstar”
• “I Am the Party”
• “There Goes My Baby”
• “Can U Handle It?”
• “ATL Stripper Medley”
• “My Boo”
• “Bad Girl”
• “Good Kisser”
• “Seduction”
• “Good Good”
• “Yeah!”
• “Without You”

Ed Masley has been covering pop music for The Republic since 2007, where he reviews festivals and concerts, interviews music legends, and reports on the local scene. With over a decade of experience in Pittsburgh, he continues to share his insights through social media platforms, including X and Instagram @edmasley, as well as Facebook. You can reach him via email at [email protected].

How ‍has fatherhood influenced Usher’s approach to his ⁤music and career choices?

**Exclusive ‍Interview with Usher Raymond: ⁤The Father, The Performer, ‍and The Influencer**

**Interviewer:** Usher, thank you⁣ for joining us. You recently mentioned the nuances of fatherhood in your discussions. How has being ‍a father ⁢influenced your music and career?

**Usher:** Thank you for having me. Fatherhood has changed my perspective immensely. It’s made me more ‌introspective and aware of the kind of legacy I want⁣ to ‍leave behind. My kids inspire me ⁣every day, whether‍ it’s the music ⁢I create‍ or⁤ the way I approach life. I‌ want them to see that hard work and ⁣passion⁢ can lead to something beautiful.

**Interviewer:** Speaking of passion, ⁢you’re gearing up‌ for⁤ your highly anticipated tour.⁣ Can you tell us‍ what fans can expect from the‍ “Past Present Future” tour?

**Usher:** Absolutely! This tour is a celebration of my 30-year career. We’re pulling out⁣ all the⁤ stops with a production that features incredible choreography, stunning visuals—including an ⁢enormous LED cube that enhances the experience—and a‌ setlist ⁣that ‍spans ​my entire catalog.​ We’re aiming to give fans an unforgettable night that transports them through time.

**Interviewer:**⁣ Your Super Bowl ⁣Halftime Show created a lot of buzz. Can you compare the energy⁤ of that performance with ​what we can expect⁢ in Phoenix?

**Usher:**⁣ The​ energy is going to be electric! The Super Bowl was a phenomenal experience—truly⁢ a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. However, performing at the Footprint Center is‍ different;⁣ it’s intimate yet exhilarating. The connection with the audience, ⁣the choreography, and the music will be elevated. There’s something about the live concert atmosphere that’s ‍just⁢ unmatched.

**Interviewer:** You also talked about⁢ searching for fresh talent. How ‍do you approach that process, especially in today’s diverse musical landscape?

**Usher:** It’s⁢ all about being open and authentic. I’m​ always on the lookout for‍ unique voices and perspectives that can add something new to the industry. ​I ⁢love working with young ⁢artists,‍ nurturing their talent while learning from ⁢them as well. It’s about collaboration,‍ blending​ styles, ⁢and embracing ‍the new‌ soundscape, which, as I’ve noticed, is​ heavily influenced by K-pop.

**Interviewer:** K-pop has indeed been making waves globally. What are your thoughts on‌ its influence ‌in the music industry today?

**Usher:** K-pop has revolutionized​ the ‍way music is‍ experienced and marketed. The ‍artistry, choreography, and fan ⁣engagement are next level. It has an infectious energy that resonates ‍with‍ audiences worldwide. As artists, ⁢we can learn a lot from their​ approach,⁣ especially in terms of performance and connecting with‍ fans.

**Interviewer:** You’ve mentioned the⁢ importance of showmanship ‌in your performances. ⁢How ‌has your style evolved over the years?

**Usher:** My style has⁢ definitely evolved. I ⁣strive to ​maintain that‌ fluidity and charisma that my fans love while also⁢ experimenting with new elements. Dance has always ⁣been a huge part of my identity, and as I grow, I incorporate different styles and influences that reflect ‍who I am at this stage in my life.

**Interviewer:** what do ​you hope your fans⁣ take away from your performances on this tour?

**Usher:** I want ⁣them to feel ​a range of ⁤emotions—joy, ⁢nostalgia, and connection. I hope they leave with a sense of‍ empowerment and understanding of my journey through music. Most importantly, I want them to ⁣know that‌ with every performance, I give my all, because they matter to me.

**Interviewer:** ‍Thank you,‌ Usher. We can’t wait to see⁢ you​ live in action!

**Usher:**⁤ Thank you! ​Looking forward to hitting the stage ⁢and bringing the party!