Under the dazzling lights of the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles on June 30, Usher Raymond IV, affectionately known as Usher (or Ur-Shur, if you like), received the night's highest honor: the 2024 BET Lifetime Achievement Award.
Usher, a name synonymous with R&B and pop, continues to redefine the musical landscape with his smooth vocals, dynamic stage presence and innovative artistry. From his late 1990s hits like “My Way” and “You Make Me Wanna…” to his chart-topping hits “Confessions” and “Yeah!”, Usher has consistently delivered anthems that reverberate through many generations. His influence extends beyond music, influencing dance, fashion and culture, including a long-standing relationship with Rémy Martin.
In a partnership that epitomizes luxury and excellence, together they have created a synergy that combines music and sophisticated lifestyle, producing exceptional cognacs and unforgettable cultural moments. Their collaboration began with OMG World tour a decade ago and includes exclusive celebrations and integrations into Usher's works, as well as the 'Life Is a Melody' and 'Team Up For Excellence – The Film' campaigns over the past three years, signaling a mutual appreciation for excellence, and continuing to elevate entertainment, music and spirits, celebrating the past and inspiring the future. Usher's influence is as profound as his talent is unmatched.
From topping the charts with iconic hits like “Yeah!” for mentoring the next generation of artists The voiceand his recurring role on the 90s sitcom Moesa, Usher's multifaceted career exemplifies versatility and appeal. His recent triumph of reclaiming a top 20 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 following an impressive halftime performance further cements his enduring relevance.
Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis took the stage and shared heartfelt words about the King of R&B, and the room roared in agreement, praising the act for more to come.
The award ceremony was preceded by a medley of Usher's greatest hits, performed by music's hottest acts, including opening act Childish Gambino and cameos from Keke Palmer, Victoria Monét, Teyana Taylor, Tinashe, Summer Walker and Chlöe Bailey, before closing the sixteen-minute set with Latto's infectious Atlanta energy rapping “Yeah!” Dressed in a soft white top and black shades, a proud Usher stood almost the whole time in the front row of the theater cheering on the acts on stage and singing his hits.
With a career spanning over three decades, Usher's bandmates' electrifying performances, soulful vocals and undeniable stage presence ensured all eyes were glued to the screen. It was clear that this Lifetime Achievement Award was not just celebrating past achievements but a lasting legacy. Usher's contributions to music, culture and the arts continue to inspire and influence, making him a true legend.
Babyface and LA Reid and others then joined Jam and Lewis on stage as Usher walked up to accept the honor. Usher then delivered a heartfelt speech without the cufflinks, a decision he said was rooted in being present in the moment rather than preparing a monologue beforehand. Last night's honor saw a humble artist reflect on his journey from a young artist with dreams to a global superstar. He expressed his deep gratitude to his fans, family and mentors who fueled his rise to fame.
“You have to express your goals outwardly, regardless of what people see, regardless of what they feel … because that's the only way it will become a reality – you have to first see it and then move and decide that this is I will do, this is that I'm committed to… as long as you stay connected to what you feel and love, something important will happen,” reflects a proud Usher as he takes audiences, both in the theater and at home, through his 30-year career culminating in this prestigious award tonight .
As he stood to thunderous applause, the room filled with ad-libs and head nods in agreement with every word he said (no matter how impassioned or profound the delivery) and the crowd at home celebrated not just a performer, but a legend whose legacy continues to shape the sounds of today and tomorrow.
from our partners at https://www.billboard.com/music/rb-hip-hop/usher-honored-with-2024-bet-lifetime-achievement-award-1235721883/