The Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas erupted with excitement as Usher, the R&B icon who has been dominating the music scene for over three decades, took center stage at the Super Bowl LVIII halftime show. Regally commencing the performance atop a throne, he was flanked by a procession of marching band members and an assortment of Vegas’s finest entertainers, all while maintaining the undeniable focus of the spectacle.
From the moment Usher appeared, the audience was treated to an unequivocal assertion of his suitability for the Super Bowl halftime legacy—a legacy characterized by entertainers with an arsenal of memorable tunes, captivating dance moves, and a rapport with fans that stands the test of time. Usher checked every one of these boxes.
He dove right into the rhythm with his banger “Caught Up” and flawlessly transitioned into a string of his hits including “U Don’t Have to Call,” “Superstar,” and “Love in the Club.” The performance was a nostalgic journey through Usher’s impressive repertoire, luring the crowd into a collective groove.
A striking moment unfolded as Alicia Keys made her entrance, seated before a brightly-hued red piano to perform “If I Ain’t Got You.” As Usher slipped off one glove in a moment reminiscent of Michael Jackson—a significant nod during Black History Month—the melody transitioned into the duet “My Boo.”
Photojournalist Kirby Lee captured the essence of Usher and Alicia Keys’s collaboration during this historic performance, symbolizing the convergence of two powerful musical forces for an unforgettable halftime experience.
Amidst a celebratory atmosphere, Usher addressed the electrified spectators, attributing his success to the unwavering support of his mother. This intimate dedication lent a personal touch to an already electric show.
The 13-minute extravaganza, backed by Apple Music, featured a constellation of guest appearances. Stars such as H.E.R., Jermaine Dupri, Lil Jon raised the energy of the stadium for “Turn Down for What,” which seamlessly segued into an explosive rendition of “Yeah!” with a surprise feature by Ludacris.
Usher, throughout his career, has not been one to shy away from innovation or showmanship. This was evidenced by his smooth transition to roller skates for a kinetic performance of “OMG.” At one point, he even glided between the legs of will.i.am, much to the delight of the crowd. His album “Confessions”—having turned 20 and established as one of the best-selling music projects of all time—saw “Burn” emerge as a high point in his dynamic set.
Gracing the Las Vegas Strip over the past two years, Usher’s sold-out “Usher: My Way” residency at Dolby Live at Park MGM cemented his reputation as an electrifying live performer, further solidifying his selection as the perfect choice for the high-profile Super Bowl halftime show.
Ezra Shaw captured moments of the performance, showcasing Usher alongside Ludacris and Lil Jon in full flow, a scene symbolic of the powerful impact that these artists have had on music and culture.
An eight-time Grammy award winner, Usher is by no means unfamiliar with the pressure and the prestige of the Super Bowl. He reminisced about his guest spot with Black Eyed Peas frontman will.i.am in 2011, which offered a glimpse into the world of Super Bowl entertainment.
Reflecting on his headline performance, Usher stressed the importance of treasuring the brief, yet monumental thirteen minutes provided to performers. He was confronted with the herculean task of compressing a vast and beloved discography into a concise, energetic medley. But as fans and spectators witnessed, he not only rose to the challenge—he triumphed.
As the fireworks faded and the crowd’s cheers turned into echoes, it was evident that Usher’s halftime performance at Super Bowl LVIII was one for the ages—a celebration of musical prowess, an homage to his influences, and a testament to his enduring presence in the industry.
