Ever since he entered the music scene, Usher Raymond has had huge success as an R&B artist. The 45-year-old superstar, who first burst onto the scene 30 years ago, recently headlined the 2024 Super Bowl halftime show, delivering a performance that left fans and critics alike talking.
Usher’s journey to this point in his career has been anything but easy. Despite the success he has experienced in his career, there was a time when he contemplated leaving the music industry. The thought of pivoting to acting crossed his mind, but his love for music prevailed.
He said, “No, I want to do what I really love.” Since then he dedicated himself to creating music and delivering electrifying performances and launched a residency in Las Vegas, which turned out to be a resounding success.
Usher’s decision to continue making music was driven by his belief in quality and performance. He didn’t let comparisons to his previous albums deter him. Instead, he chose to spread his wings in Las Vegas, where he could be creative on his own terms.
This belief in himself led to the pinnacle of his career – the Super Bowl. He was determined to spread his wings in Las Vegas, where he could express his creativity freely, rather than waiting for a successful album to tour the world.
The pinnacle of this journey was his 2024 performance at the Super Bowl. This wasn’t Usher’s first time on the Super Bowl stage. Thirteen years ago, he shared the stage with The Black-Eyed Peas where he performed his hit song “OMG” during the Super Bowl XLV halftime show in Arlington, Texas.
His previous performance, which involved a two-minute routine ending with a daring leap over will.i.am’s head and landing in a split left a lasting impression on Usher. He vividly remembers a near mishap during his dramatic entrance when his hand got entangled in the wire suspending him 30 feet above the ground, almost causing him to miss his mark.
Equally memorable was the exhilarating feeling of being on that stage, a sensation so profound that it kindled in him a desire to return to the Super Bowl stage. On February 11, 2024, Usher did indeed return to that stage, delivering a stellar performance, but he didn’t collect any profit for his gig.
The online community voiced diverse opinions on the unpaid Super Bowl performance. One user expressed nonchalance, confidently stating, “It’s ok, I’m sure that his bank account is loaded. He’s not hurting.” This sentiment was echoed by another user who simply replied, “Amen.”
Other users compared him to musical legends such as Prince and Michael Jackson, implying that Usher’s performance did not warrant payment. One commented, “I wouldn’t pay for it either. He is no Prince!” while another chimed in, “MJ wasn’t paid either,” referencing Michael Jackson’s iconic Super Bowl performance.
Another user bluntly stated, “He shouldn’t be paid for that performance.” While the exact amount Usher invested in his performance remains undisclosed, it’s worth noting that artists have been known to invest heavily in their Super Bowl halftime shows.
Usher shared his strategy for the performance, expressing a desire to revisit his musical journey as far back as his first album, all within the tight 13-minute timeframe. As for whether he would be performing solo or alongside friends, Usher chose to keep the details under wraps, promising only that “it’s gonna be a great show.”
In the lead-up to the Super Bowl, Usher expressed his belief in his ability to make a significant impact in the city and beyond. He revealed plans for his tour, and his intention to share the energy he created with the rest of the world. He also announced the release of a new album featuring various artists from Atlanta, set to launch after his halftime show performance.
Some internet users who agree with Usher’s decision to perform for free shared their thoughts. One user speculated, “Because his album is coming out soon. No one that performs gets paid because this event is the best way to get their name out there again.”
Another user chimed in, stating, “Because nobody gets paid for the Super Bowl performances. I also think it’s an honor for them to be asked to do it.” A third user echoed these sentiments, “Artists don’t get paid for performing at the Super Bowl. It’s a free way to market themselves.”
These comments reflect a common understanding among users about the nature of Super Bowl performances and the benefits they offer to artists. This sentiment aligns with the longstanding custom of not paying halftime headliners.
While the NFL and Apple Music cover the production costs, which can exceed $10 million, artists often see the performance as a marketing opportunity. With last year’s game attracting 115 million viewers, the potential marketing value is immense.Usher is leveraging his Super Bowl performance to kickstart an ambitious 2024 plan. This includes the release of his ninth studio album, “Coming Home,” his first since 2016. He also has licensing agreements for a fragrance line and a cognac brand, Rémy Martin, both of which could see a boost in sales following the game.
Usher’s meticulous preparation for the performance extended to his wardrobe. He chose a white Dolce & Gabbana overcoat and suit, adorned with crystal-covered white gloves and a large crystal brooch.
As his performance progressed, he gradually shed layers to reveal a sparkling silver sleeveless shirt, a simple tank top, and his diamond “U” pendant, before finally going shirtless. He later switched to a black and blue moto-inspired outfit, showcasing his style.
Usher’s Super Bowl performance was a spectacle that paid homage to the legendary Michael Jackson. He donned a single glove, a signature accessory of the King of Pop, and showcased intricate footwork reminiscent of Jackson’s style.
His set even included a nod to the Jackson 5 song “Can You Feel It.” Usher openly acknowledged the influence of Jackson’s iconic 1993 Super Bowl halftime show on his own performance, stating that it had revolutionized the halftime show experience.
In addition to his performance, the eight-time Grammy winner made headlines with rumors of his personal life. Speculation arose that he and his longtime girlfriend, Jennifer Goicoechea, had obtained a marriage license in Clark County, Nevada just days before his performance. The couple, who have been linked since June 2019 and share two children, have yet to confirm these rumors.