Usher Is A Multigenerational Once-In-A-Generation Talent

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USHER: Past Present Future Tour - Los Angeles
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The word “legend” gets thrown around too loosely these days — as do the epithets “G.O.A.T.” (“greatest of all time”), “icon,” and “generational talent.” All too often, they get applied to artists or athletes in the midst of a great, maybe even mind-blowing run. But they are also applied too quickly, before the true test of iconic status can really be weathered or overcome: Time. Runs end; even some of the most paradigm-shifting talents can come and go in the matter of months or just years. Perhaps they set the foundation for true greatness to stand on after them, and that should be noted, but they probably shouldn’t be remembered as pillars or exemplars of their craft.

Wednesday night at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, Usher Raymond earned — or rather, proved that he long ago already earned — all-time status with the Los Angeles stop of his aptly-titled Past Present Future Tour.

Here’s a thought exercise: Think of Usher’s contemporaries in R&B or pop music — the Justin Timberlakes, the Tevin Campbells, the myriad of quartets, trios, and boy bands to have come and gone since Usher’s debut in 1994 with his self-titled album. Stars have fallen; controversies, both fabricated and substantiated, have stalled ascensions; many have reached dizzying heights but become untethered from the craftsmanship that made them. Even beyond just smooth vocalists, Usher stands more or less alone.

Sure, Snoop Dogg has become a titan of pop culture, but his last RIAA-certified album was 2008’s Ego Trippin’. He’s better known for sports commentary than music at this point. Jay-Z? Hasn’t made a new album since 2017’s 4:44 (critically hailed though it was). And a handful of Usher’s contemporaries are so much worse off at this point — especially this year — that it’s better not to mention them at all.

But Usher, who garnered his first Hot 100 No. 1 in 1997 with “Nice & Slow,” and whose string of Hot 100 hits continues to this day with his independent album Coming Home and its lead single “Good Good,” has nearly outlasted them all. He’s retained his radio relevance while becoming the sort of towering titan of pop culture capable of headlining the Super Bowl Halftime Show, which he did this year to tremendous acclaim, reminding doubters that he’s got almost 30 years worth of hits to draw from. He did just that at BET Awards in June as he was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award.

And he does it again on the Remy Martin-backed Past Present Future Tour, with a setlist reaching all the way back to his fresh-faced debut and running through R&B touchstones like “Burn,” “Lovers And Friends,” “My Way,” “Superstar,” “U Remind Me,” and “You Make Me Wanna…”; club classics like ““DJ Got Us Fallin’ In Love” and “Yeah!”; and the sports stadium staple “OMG.”

Wednesday night, Usher also showcased the depth of his Rolodex, employing comedic chops alongside a bare-chested Kevin Hart, who teased the audience with his own rendition of “Nice & Slow” before being given the tongue-in-cheek boot by his host. Breakout star Tommy Richman put in an appearance to chirp his way through his smash “Million Dollar Baby” before Usher’s spiritual ancestor Stevie Wonder took to his piano at center stage, with the star of the evening doing duets to “Ribbon In The Sky” and more. Who else has that kind of pull, plus the generosity to cede the spotlight to his inspirations?

What impressed me the most is that I saw Usher do nearly the same setlist — albeit with a shuffled song order — at his Las Vegas residency not a full year ago. His stage at Intuit Dome struck me as being far less elaborate than the stage at Dolby Live at Park MGM — it certainly never transformed into a scale replica of his hometown’s Magic City, opting for a more (ahem) stripped-down approach — yet his performance was no less engaging. I didn’t think he’d have the room to pull off his roller skating tricks, and yet, he did. The crowd was inarguably larger than the capacity at his theater show, yet even the rafters were rollicking to “There Goes My Baby” and “Climax.”

The new venue undoubtedly helped; at some point during the show, I texted my editor to request that I only cover concerts at Intuit Dome for the rest of my tenure at Uproxx. Yes, there’s a little homerism from a lifelong Clippers fan, but the building’s design, intended to highlight the partisanship of a basketball home game, also lends itself toward amazing acoustics that complement its state-of-the-art, brand-new sound system, and terrific sight lines, as even sitting at a right angle to the stage, budged up against The Wall (inspired by college arenas), allowed a fantastic view of the stage and its recesses.

But, honestly, Usher doesn’t really need the help. Even without the massive, cutting-edge production on display, without the fleet of rigorously conditioned dancers, without the laser lights, and without the double-digit costume changes he effected throughout the night, Usher would be the consummate performer. He’s not just a once-in-a-generation talent, he’s a multigenerational one. He’s got a massive past catalog to draw from, but he’s also a modern hitmaker and superstar — and like his hero Stevie, he’s likely to remain one for generations to come.



source https://uproxx.com/music/usher-past-present-future-tour-review/

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Hip Hop and Music: A Cultural Evolution

Hip Hop and Music: A Cultural Evolution and What Listeners Look For Hip hop is more than just a genre of music; it is a cultural movement that has deeply influenced the world for over four decades. Originating in the South Bronx during the 1970s, hip hop was birthed from the creative expression of marginalized communities. What started as a fusion of DJing, breakdancing, graffiti art and MCing (rapping) quickly became a global phenomenon. Over the years, hip hop has expanded its reach, influencing various aspects of society, from fashion and language to politics and social movements. But what exactly do listeners seek when they tune in to their favorite hip hop tracks? Let’s explore.

The Evolution of Hip Hop Music

The Evolution of Hip Hop Music At its core, hip hop music is built on rhythm and lyricism. Early pioneers like DJ Kool Herc, Grandmaster Flash, and Run-D.M.C. laid the foundation for what we now recognize as hip hop. They mixed disco, funk, and soul beats with rhythmic rapping to create a unique sound. Through the 1980s and 1990s, iconic artists such as Tupac, The Notorious B.I.G., Nas, and Jay-Z further shaped the genre, adding deeper narratives that explored social issues, struggles, and triumphs.
In the 2000s, hip hop saw its golden age evolve into new sub-genres, from Southern hip hop (e.g., OutKast and Lil Wayne) to the rise of trap music (led by artists like Future, Gucci Mane, and Migos). Today, artists continue to experiment with hybrid sounds, blending trap with pop, rock, and electronic music, creating a more diverse landscape for the genre.

What Listeners Look for in Hip Hop Music

What Listeners Look for in Hip Hop Music While the genre has evolved, the heart of hip hop music still beats with certain core elements that listeners continue to seek. Here’s what attracts audiences to hip hop music:

1. Authenticity

One of the most important qualities of hip hop is its authenticity. Listeners are drawn to artists who stay true to themselves, their roots, and their experiences. Whether an artist is rapping about overcoming hardship, life in the streets, or personal triumphs, their genuineness resonates with fans. Authenticity gives hip hop its raw edge, connecting the artist's voice with listeners on a deeply personal level.

2. Lyricism and Wordplay

Hip hop has always been a platform for storytelling, and the craft of lyricism is highly valued. Fans look for clever wordplay, metaphors, punchlines, and deep storytelling in their favorite tracks. Rappers like Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, and Nas are revered for their intricate lyricism and ability to convey powerful messages through their words. A song with sharp bars, vivid imagery, and emotional depth can elevate a listener’s connection to the music.

3. Beat and Production Quality

The beat is often the first thing people notice in a hip hop song. A catchy, hard-hitting beat can make or break a track, and producers play an integral role in shaping the sound of hip hop music. Producers like Dr. Dre, Kanye West, and Metro Boomin have become household names for their distinctive production styles. From boom-bap beats to trap drums, the instrumental elements are essential in drawing listeners into the rhythm and groove of the song.

4. Innovation and Evolution

Hip hop is known for its constant evolution. Fans of the genre are often on the lookout for artists who push boundaries and experiment with new sounds. This spirit of innovation keeps the genre fresh and exciting. From the rise of auto-tune with artists like T-Pain to the blend of electronic and rap seen with artists like Travis Scott, listeners are eager for new music that challenges the traditional limits of hip hop.

5. Vibe and Energy

Hip hop isn’t just about the lyrics or the beat—it’s also about the energy the music brings. Whether it’s a party anthem, an introspective track, or a political statement, the vibe and energy of a song play a crucial role in how it resonates with fans. Artists like Drake, Cardi B, and Lil Uzi Vert have mastered the art of creating tracks that make listeners feel a certain way, whether it’s hyped up, laid back, or reflective.

6. Relatability and Emotional Connection

Hip hop has always been an outlet for self-expression and commentary on life experiences. Because of this, listeners often gravitate toward songs that reflect their own lives, struggles, and aspirations. Whether it’s a song about the challenges of growing up in a tough environment, the celebration of personal success, or the experience of love and heartbreak, hip hop has the unique ability to connect emotionally with audiences. Fans often seek songs that speak to their individual journeys and provide comfort, validation, or empowerment.

The Global Reach of Hip Hop

What was once confined to the streets of New York City has now become a global cultural force. From Tokyo to Paris, hip hop has spread across continents, influencing artists and listeners worldwide. In recent years, artists from outside the U.S. have brought their own cultural influences to the genre, blending hip hop with local sounds, languages, and traditions. The genre’s global reach is a testament to its universal themes of struggle, self-expression, and empowerment.

Conclusion

Hip hop music is an ever-evolving cultural powerhouse that has grown from a localized subculture into a global sensation. The authenticity, lyricism, production quality, innovation, energy, and emotional depth are the main ingredients that attract listeners to hip hop. While the genre continues to change, its core values remain consistent—offering a space for self-expression, storytelling, and connection. As hip hop continues to evolve, it will undoubtedly remain a major force in shaping the future of music. Whether you’re a fan of classic boom-bap or modern trap, hip hop’s diverse range offers something for everyone, proving that its cultural impact is here to stay.