Usher’s on a roll. Not only is he performing the Super Bowl LVIII Halftime Show and releasing his new album Coming Home, but the festival named after one of his biggest hits is returning this spring with another nostalgic lineup. Usher will headline the 2024 Lovers & Friends Festival alongside ’90s/2000s pop icons Janet Jackson and Backstreet Boys.
The festival is billed to return to Las Vegas on Saturday, May 4, at the Las Vegas Festival Grounds. The tickets presale starts this Friday, January 26 at 10 a.m. PT. You can find more information at LoversandFriendsFest.com. See below for more details, including the full lineup.
The Full Lovers & Friends Festival 2024 Lineup
Usher (performing Confessions)
Janet Jackson
Backstreet Boys
Snoop Dogg
Lil Wayne (performing Tha Carter III)
Alicia Keys
Gwen Stefani
Nas
Mary J. Blige
Nelly Furtado
Ludacris
Ja Rule & Ashanti
Ciara
Nelly
T-Pain
TLC
Akon
Ne-Yo
M.I.A.
Timbaland
Keyshia Cole
Brandy
Monica
Eve
Kelly Rowland
Craig David
Sean Paul
6lack
Jodeci
Jason Derulo
Robin Thicke
98 Degrees
Tyrese
Majid Jordan
Method Man & Redman
Rick Ross
Jeezy
Fat Joe
T.I.
Mase
E-40
SWV
Xscape
Tank
Jeremih
The-Dream
Pretty Ricky
Ginuwine
Mario
Jojo
Mya
Kelis
Lloyd
Dru Hill
Keri Hilson
Lupe Fiasco
Too Short
Cam’ron
Twista
Juvenile
Paul Wall
Trina
Ying Yang Twins
David Banner
Lil Flip
Plies
Mims
Tweet
Next
Lumidee
Nina Sky
Total
Blaque
702
Amerie
Paula Deanda
Jon B
112
J Holiday
J-Kwon
Iyaz
Some artists covered here are Warner Music artists. Uproxx is an independent subsidiary of Warner Music Group.
February 11 is a day both sports and music fans have marked on their calendars, as that’s when Super Bowl LVIII is set to go down. There are still a couple NFL playoff match-ups left to determine who will make it to the big game, but what we do know right now is what musical artists are involved in the proceedings.
Aside from the Halftime Show, there are also a handful of pre-game performances, so let’s take a look at who’s doing what.
Who Is Performing The 2024 Super Bowl Halftime Show?
This is the question with probably the most obvious answer, as we’ve known for months now that Usher will have the honor of doing the Halftime Show at this year’s Super Bowl. As many probably expected, it appears Usher’s performance will be one that looks back at his storied career, as he indicated in a recent teaser video.
Who Is Performing The 2024 Super Bowl National Anthem?
Before the players take the field, there will be three pre-game performances, it was announced on January 18. As for “The Star-Spangled Banner,” that’ll be sung by Reba McEntire.
Who Is Performing “America The Beautiful” At The 2024 Super Bowl?
Post Malone has been tapped to deliver a rendition of “America The Beautiful.”
Who Is Performing “Lift Every Voice And Sing” At The 2024 Super Bowl?
Actor/singer Andra Day will have the honor of singing “Lift Every Voice And Sing” at this year’s Super Bowl.
Usher will be performing at the Super Bowl LVIII Halftime Show on February 11, 2024 at Allegiant Stadium in Paradise, Nevada. The event will take place close to where the legendary singer held his Las Vegas residency from 2021 to late last year. So far, there have been no reports regarding any special guests joining Usher on stage. However, he did tell Good Morning America that “it’s gonna be a great show” when asked about the possibility of surprise performers.
Usher’s headlining performance coincides with the release of his ninth studio album, Coming Home, which arrives just two days before he takes the Super Bowl stage. It has been a long time since he last performed at a halftime show. The R&B and pop icon previously performed at the Super Bowl XLV Halftime Show in 2011 as a guest of The Black Eyed Peas. That’s not to say that he hasn’t been actively performing throughout the past few years. In addition to a successful residency at Las Vegas’s Colosseum at Caesars Palace, he has played major festivals like Lovers and Friends and Roots Picnic.
The Super Bowl Halftime Show has always been reserved for “legacy artists” with sizable catalogs filled and classic hits. It is a spectacle that often sees musical giants creating an epic show out of their timeless discographies. Usher certainly fits that bill with plenty of multi-platinum and number-one hit singles. Many Super Bowl performances have managed to cram plenty of hits into a 13-minute performance, but there are certain songs that fans are expecting to see live. Here are seven hit songs that we need to see Usher perform at his Super Bowl halftime show. Listed in no particular order, take a look at the selections below.
One might not picture the Super Bowl when they hear a downbeat R&B song like “U Got It Bad,” but its iconic status makes sense for a performance meant for hit singles. Many of the best Super Bowl halftime shows balance both energetic moments of excitement with slow and intimate songs. “U Got It Bad” is a massive number-one single and fan favorite, and would fit nicely within Usher’s set of R&B classics. As an early hit and the biggest single from 8701, “U Got It Bad” helps capture the span of Usher’s illustrious career, not to mention the fans love it.
One can confidentially assume that Usher will perform “Yeah!” at the Super Bowl. The chart-topping throwback is significant in the singer’s discography, with its notoriety and upbeat nostalgia perfectly fit for the halftime show setting. As arguably Usher’s most recognizable hit, fans can expect to see him perform “Yeah!” with his famous dancing skills. Additionally, it creates the right opportunity for Lil Jon and Ludacris to possibly make a surprise appearance. “Yeah!” is an essential hit that we need to hear at this year’s Super Bowl.
“Confessions Part II” (2004)
Easily Usher’s biggest album is his diamond-certified third album, Confessions. As his best-selling work, one can expect the R&B legend to perform many songs from the album, including “Confessions Part II.” Rolling Stone recently ranked it as the greatest R&B song of the 21st century, not to mention that Usher’s performance of the record during his NPR Tiny Desk sparked the viral “Watch This” meme. With these recent celebrations of the song, fans can anticipate “Confessions Part II” to be included in Usher’s set. It is one of the most upbeat and catchy songs on his biggest album, and would certainly make for a thrilling halftime show moment.
Also on Confessions is “My Boo,” which is Usher’s highest-selling single to date. The song is an integral part of Usher’s discography. With its slow groove and catchy lyrics, it warrants a spot in his 13-minute performance. “My Boo” lends itself to a crowd sing-along, which one can picture when considering its position in Usher’s performance. Additionally, Alicia Keys’ contributions to the song opens the possibility of a live duet between the two.
“Love In This Club” Ft. Jeezy (2008)
Out of all the songs in Usher’s catalog, few are as right for the Super Bowl Halftime Show as “Love In This Club.” It contains the right characteristics for the big-budget performance spectacle. The upbeat and catchy song allows Usher to showcase his vocal range and his dance moves. Additionally, its irresistible chorus can create engagement with the audience. A staple in most of Usher’s live performances, we need to hear “Love In This Club” at the Super Bowl.
“OMG” Ft. will.i.am (2010)
Usher’s last performance at the halftime show took place over a decade ago as he joined The Black Eyed Peas to perform “OMG.” It was the biggest single from his Raymond V. Raymond album and is his last song to top the Billboard Hot 100. Performing “OMG” at the Super Bowl Halftime Show would restore the feeling of the early 2010’s era. It would also be a full circle moment in Usher’s headlining halftime show after performing the song as a guest 13 years ago. “OMG” is one of Usher’s most lively singles that fans need to hear at his upcoming performance.
Usher may be known as an R&B icon, but he made numerous classic EDM bangers during the early 2010’s. The biggest of these club-ready hits is “DJ Got Us Fallin’ in Love.” Not many Usher songs encourage people to dance quite like this one. It is practically made for the stadium setting with its bouncy pop beat and dynamic vocals. Many fans may favor Usher’s older R&B ballads, but he captured young audiences with contemporary dance records that appeal almost universally. The fun spirit of “DJ Got Us Fallin’ in Love” is certainly necessary for Usher’s Super Bowl Halftime Show performance.
Just as sports fans are gearing up to see the two best NFL teams play in the Super Bowl next month. But music fans are arguably just excited. The Super Bowl Halftime Show is one of the biggest stages any music artist can get and this year R&B legend Usher is due to take the stage. He’s already been dropping teasers for his upcoming performance. The “Yeah!” singer is promising big things after claiming in a recent interview that he wants it to be perfect.
But the performance isn’t the only reason for Usher fans to be excited. He’s also releasing his highly-anticipated 9th studio album the same night. His last official solo album Hard II Love dropped back in 2016. He followed it up with A a collaborative project with Zaytoven two years later. The project is already off to a strong start with “Good Good” featuring 21 Savage and Summer Walker. The single has been Usher’s biggest hit in years and is still hovering on the Hot 100 months after its release. The singer recently took to social media to announce yet another artist who will be appearing on his new album. Check out who it is below.
Latto has a pretty busy 2023 highlighted by her song “Put It On Da Floor.” The song got off to a decent start out of the gate but because a huge hit once Cardi B joined in for a collaboration. Together they delivered “Put It On Da Floor Again” which shot up to the top 20 of the Hot 100. The song stuck around for much of the year as well landing in the Year End Hot 100.
She also made an appearance on one of the biggest hit pop songs of the year. Latto lent a guest verse to K-pop star Jung Kook’s single “Seven.” The track debuted at number one on the Hot 100 which made her the first rapper to appear on the top spot in 2023. What do you think of Latto appearing on the upcoming new Usher album? Let us know in the comment section below.
As anticipation builds for Super Bowl LVIII, singer Usher is gearing up to headline the Apple Music Halftime Show, promising a performance that transcends entertainment to become a healing experience. The R&B icon shared his aspirations for the show and reflected on his remarkable musical journey.
In a recent chat with Vogue, Usher, who was announced as the headliner last September, expressed his desire for viewers to walk away from the halftime performance with a sense of healing and hope. “I’m hoping they walk away with something that’s healing them, something that makes them feel hopeful,” he stated. The Grammy winner aims to inspire not just a reflection on the past but also a sense of optimism for the future.
The choice of Usher as the headliner for this year’s Super Bowl Halftime Show is particularly fitting as the game will be held in Las Vegas, where Usher had an extended residency at the MGM from July 2022 to December 2023.
As he prepares for this monumental performance, Usher acknowledges the challenges and the significance of the moment. Reflecting on his journey, he shared a moment before taking the stage, where he looks out and remembers the times when the venue was empty and the road seemed tough. “I see them having a great time, and I’m like, ‘Here it is — honor that moment. Now go have a good time,’” he revealed.
Building on the success of Rihanna’s groundbreaking performance while pregnant in 2023, Usher is set to join the ranks of elite performers who have graced the Super Bowl Halftime Show stage. He emphasizes that his 13 minutes onstage must be perfect, marking three decades in the industry.
The “Yeah” singer teased elements of his performance, promising fans the signature killer choreography they’ve come to expect along with skating and musical surprises. Usher envisions the night as a celebration of R&B, not just in terms of music but also in performance, connection, and spirit.
Acknowledging his inspirations, Usher draws on the legacy of legendary Vegas showmen like Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley. However, he also pays homage to trailblazers who paved the way for Black performers like him, such as Michael Jackson and Prince. Reflecting on their sacrifices, he expresses his joy and the responsibility he feels to bring energy, love, and connection to the world.
Carolyn Murphy’s career in the fashion industry is a compelling narrative of grace, resilience, and strategic insight. As of 2024, her enduring presence as a top model and her forays into business have collectively built a net worth of $35 million, as reported by LuxLux. Murphy’s story transcends the typical model biography. It’s a journey marked by iconic fashion moments, savvy brand partnerships, and a keen sense of personal branding.
Strutting To Success: Murphy’s Modeling Milestones
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – APRIL 08: Carolyn Murphy walks along 46th. Street during the Michael Kors Fashion Show in Times Square on April 08, 2021 in New York City. (Photo by James Devaney/GC Images)
Murphy’s ascent in the modeling world began in the 1990s. She quickly rose to prominence, becoming one of the most sought-after faces in the industry. Her ability to embody classic beauty and contemporary edge made her a favorite among top designers and luxury brands. Known for her appearances in major fashion campaigns, covers of prestigious magazines, and walks on high-profile runways, Murphy has established herself as a fashion icon. Her longevity in the industry is rare and speaks to her adaptability, professionalism, and the timeless appeal of her look.
Beyond The Camera Lens: Murphy’s Personal Pursuits & Advocacy
NEW YORK, NY – JUNE 11: Carolyn Murphy attends the 2017 Tony Awards at. Radio City Music Hall on June 11, 2017 in New York City. (Photo by Jemal Countess/Getty Images for Tony Awards Productions)
Outside of her modeling achievements, Carolyn Murphy is known for her commitment to environmental advocacy and her passion for sustainable living. Her efforts to promote eco-conscious fashion and lifestyle choices have made her a respected figure in fashion and environmental activism. This aspect of her life adds a significant layer to her public persona. It shows her as more than a model but a conscientious individual actively engaged in making a positive impact.
Carolyn Murphy: Weaving A Legacy Beyond Net Worth
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – MAY 22: Carolyn Murphy speaks onstage during the Animal Haven Gala 2019 at Tribeca 360 on May 22, 2019 in New York City. (Photo by Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images for Animal Haven Gala 2019 )
In reflecting on Carolyn Murphy’s journey to a net worth of $35 million in 2024, it is evident that her true value lies in her contributions to the fashion industry and her efforts to promote sustainability. Her legacy is one of enduring beauty, professionalism, and a commitment to causes beyond the glitz of the modeling world. Murphy’s story in the fashion industry is not just one of financial success; it’s a narrative of evolving beauty standards, personal growth, and a commitment to making a difference.
Usher is currently preparing for one of the biggest performances of his storied career: the upcoming Super Bowl Halftime Show. (It looks like he’s even cut sugar and alcohol from his diet to make sure his body is as ready as possible for the big day.) The Super Bowl is now just under a month away, as kickoff is set for February 11. Ahead of then, Usher has hyped up his performance with a new teaser video.
The video starts with a gospel choir singing, “Peace up, A-Town down,” before the rest of the clip is soundtracked by Usher, Ludacris, and Lil Jon’s 2004 hit “Yeah!.” From there, we’re treated to various clips from throughout the years, of either Usher or other people enjoying him and/or “Yeah!.” The video ends with the tagline, “One performance. 30 years in the making.”
Pay attention and you’ll spot appearances from LeBron James, J Balvin, and Jung Kook. Usher worked with Balvin last year, teaming up with him and DJ Khaled on “Dientes.” A couple months later, he linked up with Jung Kook for a “Standing Next To You” remix. LeBron, meanwhile, was pumped last year when he heard that Usher had landed the coveted halftime gig.
Usher has partnered with Apple Music to release the official trailer for the highly anticipated Apple Music Super Bowl LVIII Halftime Show. A monumental performance 30 years in the making, the trailer seamlessly weaves together footage over three decades, featuring Usher and an array of famous faces, including LeBron James, J Balvin, and Jung Kook.
As anticipation for the big game builds, the trailer promises an electrifying showcase of one of Usher’s biggest hits, leaving fans worldwide screaming, “Yeah!”
To prepare for the upcoming Halftime Show, fans can pre-add Usher’s ninth studio album, Coming Home, set to release on Feb. 9th, on Apple Music. Additionally, they can delve into three decades of USHER’s hits across various genres with the curated playlist “Usher Essentials” on Apple Music.
For interactive engagement, Apple Music Sing allows fans to sing along to their favorite USHER songs, adjusting vocals and enjoying real-time lyrics for a dynamic and immersive experience.
Building on the success of last year’s record-breaking Apple Music Super Bowl LVII Halftime Show starring Rihanna, the ongoing partnership between the NFL, Roc Nation, and Apple Music continues to unite the Super Bowl Halftime Show with the world-class music experience offered by Apple Music. With a catalog exceeding 100 million songs and cutting-edge features like Spatial Audio, Apple Music remains at the forefront of delivering unparalleled musical experiences to fans worldwide.
We are just weeks away from Super Bowl LVIII, during which Usher is set to perform the Apple Music Halftime Show. With over three decades worth of hits to his credit, Usher‘s halftime performance is sure to be iconic. And, we hear that the “Good Good” hitmaker is kicking it into high gear ahead of the show.
According to the Sunday Mirror, Usher is currently hard at work in rehearsals as the Halftime show is imminent. He is also reportedly on a very strict dining regimen.
“The Super Bowl has always been on Usher’s bucket list and he wants to be in the best shape to give the performance of his life to the 100 million-plus people watching. He has quit all sugar and alcohol and is rehearsing endlessly,” said a source to Sunday Mirror.
Upon the initial reports, fans noted similarities between Usher’s pre-performance diet and that of Beyoncé’s ahead of her 2018 performance at Coachella.
One fan on Twitter even noted “He on that Beyoncé Homecoming diet. We’re in for a treat.”
However, some may consider Bey’s a little more extreme, as she gave up alcohol, sugar, caffeine, meat, dairy, and bread, as revealed in her 2019 Netflix documentary, Homecoming.
Super Bowl LVIII broadcasts live on Sunday, February 11 at 6:30 p.m. EST on CBS.
R&B icon and megastar Usher has been a heartthrob for decades. Evidently, this has also proven true in his love life, as he’s had many high-profile relationships over the years. Not only has he captivated the world with his musical talents, but he’s also stirred up significant media attention for his romances. Usher’s dating history has been up for public discussion since the late ’90s. Let’s take a closer look at some key relationships in the life of the musical luminary, from his memorable love story with TLC’s Chilli to his more discreet love stories.
LOS ANGELES, CA – NOVEMBER 18: (L-R) Singers Brandy and Usher pose in the audience at the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Christopher Polk/AMA2012/Getty Images for AMA)
In the late ’90s, Brandy found herself amidst swirling dating rumors with Usher. Sparked by their connection within the music industry, dating speculations arose among fans. Their romance reportedly spanned a few months and remained a topic of intrigue for a few more. Despite being seen frequently together during that period, neither Usher nor Brandy chose to neither confirm nor deny the rumors surrounding their potential romantic entanglement.
Rozonda “Chilli” Thomas
Chilli and Usher (Photo by Johnny Nunez/WireImage)
Usher and Chilli’s longtime relationship remains the most high-profile one for both stars. The two R&B hitmakers began dating in 2001 and quickly became one of the industry’s power couples. Their high-profile romance was the talk of the town, and they were inseparable. However, like many celebrity relationships, theirs faced its share of challenges, leading to a breakup in 2004. Despite parting ways, Usher and Chilli have maintained a friendship over the years. Furthermore, they always speak fondly of each other in interviews.
Melinda Santiago
L.A. Reid, Melinda Santiago and Usher during Usher Celebrates Multi-Platinum Album “8701” which has Sold 5 Million Copies Worldwide at Pier 59 Studios in New York City, New York, United States. (Photo by KMazur/WireImage)
The R&B sensation first met this American businesswoman and model in 2002. This was during the rapid rise of his career in the music industry. While they chose to keep their relationship discreet, glimpses of the couple were occasionally caught at events and gatherings. Despite the initial connection, their romance gradually lost its spark. By 2003, the couple went their separate ways.
Joy Bryant
Joy Bryant during 13th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards – Arrivals at Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, California, United States. (Photo by Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic)
In 2004, Usher entered a romantic relationship with actress and former fashion model Joy Bryant. Their connection blossomed on the set of In The Mix, a crime-comedic romance film that served as the start of their relationship. Usher even featured her in his 20-minute musical mini-movie, Caught Up. Despite a promising beginning, their journey proved to be ephemeral, and after a few months of dating, they chose different paths.
Naomi Campbell
Usher and Naomi Campbell during Usher’s 26th Birthday Party at Rainbow Room in New York City, New York, United States. (Photo by Carley Margolis/FilmMagic)
Naomi Campbell and Usher crossed paths in 2004. Subsequently, their whirlwind romance quickly became a beloved feature in Hollywood tabloids. Beyond their success as a British supermodel and a renowned musical artist, Naomi and Usher showcased a personal chemistry that resonated both on and off the red carpet. Regrettably, their relationship was fleeting, lasting for about a few months before the duo decided to part ways.
Karrine Steffans
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – JUNE 26: Karrine Steffans attends Atlantic records BET Awards 2022 After Party on June 26, 2022 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Prince Williams/Getty Images)
Usher’s romantic relationship with Karrine Stefans, the former video vixen and author, became a focal point of media attention. They initially met in 2000 and had a brief encounter, but their relationship did not last long. This was as a result of Usher subsequently falling in love with Chilli. Steffans released her book Confessions of a Video Vixen, detailing her relationship with the R&B singer.
Tameka Foster
Usher (right) with Tameka Foster (Photo by Moses Robinson/WireImage)
Usher’s relationship with stylist and wardrobe consultant Tameka Foster stirred significant controversy. The couple’s romance led to an engagement in 2007 and a private wedding ceremony later that year. However, the union faced intense scrutiny from the media and fans. Despite the challenges, Usher and Tameka birthed two sons: Usher “Cinco” Raymond V and Naviyd Ely. The relationship ultimately ended in a highly publicized divorce in 2009.
PARIS, FRANCE – JANUARY 18: Singer Usher and his wife Grace Miguel attend the Haider Ackermann Menswear Fall/Winter 2017-2018 show as part of Paris Fashion Week. Held at Galerie de la Mineralogie on January 18, 2017 in Paris, France. (Photo by Bertrand Rindoff Petroff/Getty Images)
Usher and Grace Miguel, a well-respected music executive, first met in 2009 when he was still undergoing his separation from Tameka. The couple kept their friendship-turned-relationship relatively private until they got engaged and married in 2015. While they were together, Grace became Usher’s manager. In 2018, Usher and Grace announced their separation, with Usher later filing for divorce. The two remained discreet about the reasons behind their split, choosing to separate amicably.
Jenn Goicoechea
PARIS, FRANCE – FEBRUARY 28: (EDITORIAL USE ONLY) Jenn Goicoechea and Usher attend the Balmain show as part of the Paris Fashion Week Womenswear Fall/Winter 2020/2021 on February 28, 2020 in Paris, France. (Photo by Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images)
In 2019, Usher fell in love with Jenn Goicoechea, a music executive. Before publicly acknowledging their relationship, the couple had been seen together at numerous events and festivals. Their love flourished, culminating in the arrival of their daughter, Sovereign Bo Raymond, in September 2020. The couple also welcomed another boy, Sire Castrello Raymond, in 2021.
