Usher's London takeover is in full swing, following a kickoff of sold-out shows at the O2 Arena that have left fans buzzing with excitement. The R&B icon, known for his smooth vocals and electrifying performances, joined forces with Spotify on March 30, 2025, for a special event dubbed "Black Box" at The Box in Soho. This variety show celebrated Black excellence and paid homage to the "Chitlin’ Circuit" revues of the 1950s and ’60s, featuring an eclectic mix of performances and special guests.
During the event, Usher treated the audience to a selection of his classic hits, including “Good Kisser,” “I Don’t Mind,” and “U Don’t Have to Call.” In a playful twist, the artist tossed stacks of “USH POUNDS” across the room, much to the delight of the crowd. Among the attendees were notable figures such as U.K. rap stars Headie One and Ghetts, football icon Rio Ferdinand and his wife Kate, and actor Sir Ian McKellen, all of whom added to the star-studded atmosphere.
The evening was further enlivened by performances from a magician, tap dancers, and an aerialist, alongside an impressive 11-piece collective from the London Gospel Choir. Guests enjoyed cocktails inspired by Usher's iconic tracks, such as “Yeah!” and “U Remind Me,” creating a festive ambiance that resonated with the themes of the show.
Usher's London residency marks the start of the European leg of his "Past Present Future" tour, which launched in the U.S. last year to coincide with the 30th anniversary of his debut album. Following his London shows, the tour will continue in Paris, Amsterdam, and Berlin before returning to London in May for two final nights at the O2 Arena.
In a surprising twist, supermodel Naomi Campbell made a special guest appearance at Usher's concert on April 1, 2025. The 54-year-old model strutted on stage in a racy mini dress, captivating the audience as Usher performed. Despite a brief romance between the two in 2004, Usher has previously denied dating Campbell, stating, “We were never a couple. We never dated.” Nevertheless, their shared history added an intriguing layer to the evening.
Usher, whose full name is Usher Terry Raymond IV, landed in London earlier that week to prepare for his back-to-back shows, with a total of 10 performances planned. He kicked off the concert series on March 29, 2025, and performed in front of a crowd of around 200,000 people. His fans have been eager to witness his return to the stage, especially after his memorable performance at Super Bowl LVIII in February 2024 and a successful Las Vegas residency.
As the first night of his London shows unfolded, Usher demonstrated that his talent and stamina remain unmatched even after two decades in the industry. The concert, part of his 78-date "Past Present Future" tour, is in support of his ninth studio album, "Coming Home," which features collaborations with artists like 21 Savage, Summer Walker, and Latto.
Throughout the concert, Usher showcased his impressive vocal range and dance skills, proving that he still has what it takes to captivate audiences. He opened the show with a 2001: Space Odyssey-esque theme, setting the stage for a night of nostalgia and high-energy performances. The setlist included late 90s hits like “U Make Me Wanna” and “U Remind Me,” as well as a medley of regional classics that showcased his Atlanta roots.
Fans were treated to a visually stunning display, complete with computer graphics and choreography that highlighted Usher's iconic dance moves. At one point, he even glided onto the stage on roller skates, flanked by dancers and decked out in costumes designed by Mowalola Ogunlesi, adding an element of flair to the performance.
Usher's ability to engage with the crowd was evident as he chatted with guests and took selfies, creating an intimate atmosphere that resonated with his fans. His charisma and stage presence shone through as he seamlessly transitioned between songs, keeping the energy high throughout the night.
However, the concert was not without its quirks. Some moments felt slightly disjointed, perhaps due to the extensive nature of his catalogue. Despite this, Usher expertly pulled the audience back into the experience with soulful renditions of classics like “There Goes My Baby” and playful interactions that had fans laughing and cheering.
As the night came to a close, Usher performed his hit “Without You,” a collaboration with David Guetta, leaving the audience wanting more. His ability to blend nostalgia with contemporary flair solidified his status as the King of R&B, proving that even after 30 years in the industry, he remains a force to be reckoned with.
Usher's London residency not only marks a significant moment in his career but also highlights the enduring appeal of his music across generations. With each performance, he continues to captivate audiences, reminding them of the power of live music and the magic of unforgettable moments.
