If anyone’s still entertaining the previous “R&B is dead” debate, Usher is doing his part to remind them that the genre is alive and well. After a lengthy hiatus from releasing new music of his own, the Texas-born performer returned this Friday (March 17) with “GLU,” a song that he’s been teasing on social media for some time now. Prior to the single’s release, he also hinted at a Lori Harvey-featured visual, though that has yet to land on YouTube at the time of publication.
Usher’s latest arrival finds him hitting plenty of high notes over production by the Avila Brothers, Lil Jon, and Sean Garrett. “I just love that glue, ooh / That slides down you whenever we start touchin’,” he croons on the sensual chorus. ” It gets all on you, all on me from f*ckin’ / That’s when that glue done got you.”
Usher Makes His Highly-Anticipated Return with “GLU”
Back in 2020, the “OMG” hitmaker had a few big hits, such as “Bad Habits” and “I Cry.” Earlier this year, he also teamed up with Tyga for “California” from Songland, and connected with Lil Jon and Ludacris for “SexBeat.” His last project came in 2018, alongside Zaytover. Called “A”, it boasts popular tracks like “ATA” and “Peace Sign,” as well as “Stay At Home” featuring Future.
It remains unclear if Usher has plans to release an album anytime soon, though he has been hard at work on other ventures. Just last month, the 44-year-old proudly announced 15 more dates for his Las Vegas residency, which has attracted plenty of celebrity attendees so far. Elsewhere, he’s been collaborating with L.A. Reid on a new label partnership he seems particularly excited about.
“It’s gonna be [a record label] and then some,” the artist told Angie Martinez late last year. To be able to be back in each other’s lives [is great]. I feel he has been a viable commodity to so many people in so many industries. And so many incredible entities. But now to be able to come together and have ownership in what we’re building for our future [is awesome].”
Stream Usher’s “GLU” on YouTube above. Afterward, tell us your thoughts and if you’re excited about the icon’s impending comeback in the comments. Make sure to check back on Sunday (March 19) for more release recommendations on our weekly R&B Season playlist.
Quotable Lyrics:
You done made it messy
I guess that means you qualified
How the f*ck you choke then don’t choke
Then do it both from the side? Hey
[Via]