In a dazzling trip down memory lane, Usher transported Super Bowl LVIII viewers back to the 2000s with a show-stopping halftime performance that left the audience in awe. The multi-talented singer-songwriter delivered a memorable set, featuring his greatest hits, iconic dance moves, and even a roller skating number.
Usher kicked off the show with a bang, dancing on the field alongside acrobatic performers while crooning his 2004 hit, “Caught Up.” The energy soared as he seamlessly transitioned into “U Don’t Have to Call” before moving to the stage for an electrifying rendition of “Superstar” and a moonwalk-infused performance of “Love in This Club.” A highlight of the night was his duet with Alicia Keys on “My Boo,” followed by a heartfelt ballad section featuring classics like “Confessions,” “Burn,” and “U Got It Bad.”
The performance took an unexpected turn with guest appearances, showcasing Usher’s extensive collaborations. Alicia Keys graced the stage in a dazzling red ensemble, performing “If I Ain’t Got You” before joining Usher for a romantic rendition of “My Boo.” Other notable cameos included Jermaine Dupri, H.E.R., and will.i.am, each adding their unique flair to the spectacular show. Usher closed out the night with a triumphant performance of “Yeah!” alongside Ludacris and Lil Jon, fellow Atlanta legends.
Known for his showmanship, Usher underwent a wardrobe transformation during the performance. Starting in a white bejewelled suit by Dolce & Gabbana, he gradually shed layers until he performed “U Got It Bad” shirtless, much to the delight of the crowd. His second outfit, a glittery black and royal blue Off-White motocross ensemble adorned with 340,000 crystals, paired perfectly with his roller skating routine. Usher completed the look with custom chrome Air Jordan 4s by the Shoe Surgeon.
Anticipating the challenge of condensing his extensive career into a 13-minute show, Usher expressed his approach in an Apple Music press conference before the event. “I was very mindful of my past, celebrating my present here in Las Vegas, and thinking about where we are headed in the future,” he said. “What songs do people know me for? What songs have been a celebration of [my career]? That was the idea.”
Usher’s Super Bowl halftime performance left an indelible mark, reminding fans of the magic of the 2000s and showcasing the enduring talent of one of music’s biggest stars.
