Stage Name: Usher
Real Name: Usher Raymond
Birthdate: October 14, 1978
Sign: Libra
Hometown: Atlanta, Georgia, USA
Usher's Early Years
Usher was born in Chattanooga, Tennessee and moved to Atlanta with his family when he was 12. Usher started singing in the church choir (led by his mom Jonetta Patton) when he was six years old. When Usher was 14 he was spotted at a talent show by a record exec. from LaFace Records. Eventually the company signed the young singer while he was still in high school.
Usher Hits It Big
In 1994 Usher released his first album, Usher, which was executive produced by P. Diddy. It wasn't long until Coca-Cola came knocking a year later and snagged him to do a jingle for the holidays. Usher also teamed up with R&B singer Monica on her album for a remake of Let's Straighten It Out. After graduating high school in 1997, Usher released his second album titled My Way. In 1998 Janet Jackson grabbed him as an opening act for her Velvet Rope Tour. In August 2001, Usher released the album 8701. This album has more of a hip-hop feel and the R&B's a little edgier. Usher has a new album out, Confessions, and this one is set to be the best one of his career with songs like ''confessions part 2'' talking about his life today.
Usher the Actor
Usher's only interest isn't singing. He's also tried his hand at acting with some pretty neat flicks. Usher has appeared in The Faculty and Light It Up, as well as the cowboy movie Texas Rangers with Ashton Kutcher.
Usher - Did U Know?
Usher stars in Unchain My Heart: The Ray Charles Story , due out in 2004.
Usher has an on-again, off-again relationship with Chilli from TLC.
Usher's real name is Usher Raymond IV.
Usher Says...
"I've been working so hard, I'm about to have a Mariah Carey."
