Usher delivered a Masterclass in Entertainment at the O2 London
The air was electric at The O2 Arena last Saturday night (March 29) as USHER delivered what many fans call the performance of a lifetime. As the first of ten London shows on his “USHER: Past Present Future Tour,” the evening set an extraordinary standard that left 20,000 attendees breathless and craving more.
From the moment USHER ascended to the stage, the crowd erupted. Fans who had waited years to see the R&B icon live watched in awe as he commanded the arena, presenting his impressive catalog through ten meticulously crafted acts. Throughout the venue, people could hear him remarking on his seemingly effortless ability to blend smooth vocals with precisely executed choreography – the 15-minute skate routine, in particular, drawing gasps of amazement from the audience.
The setlist transported the crowd through three decades of music history. Longtime fans cheered as he revisited early works like “Call Me A Mack,” while everyone in attendance found themselves moving to global smash hits including “Yeah!”, “U Got It Bad” and “Love In This Club.” When the emotional high notes of “Climax” filled the arena, phones lit up the darkness as people rushed to capture the moment.
The connection between artist and audience reached its peak when USHER made his way through the crowd during “My Boo.” Fans lucky enough to be in his path received USH POUNDS and shots poured by the man himself. When he quipped, “I will take a pint as we’re here in London!” the arena erupted with appreciative laughter and cheers – a perfect moment of rapport between the global superstar and his British fans.
Perhaps the most touching moment for many came during the final act when a creative Zoom call to USHER’s younger self appeared on screen. Around the arena, expressions of reflection could be seen as fans contemplated their journeys with his music over the years. This thoughtful interlude provided the perfect context before the show closed with “Without You,” sending waves of euphoria through the crowd as everyone danced and sang along.
Fashion enthusiasts in attendance were treated to a visual feast as USHER showcased multiple stunning outfits throughout the night. His bespoke Union Jack jacket and trousers by Mowalola drew particular appreciation from the London crowd – a thoughtful nod to his host city that didn’t go unnoticed.
As fans streamed out of The O2 after the show, the buzz was palpable. Many were already discussing how to secure tickets to another of his remaining London performances, unwilling to accept that they’d witnessed this spectacular show just once. With his ninth studio album “COMING HOME” coinciding with his 30th anniversary as an entertainer, USHER proved to London that night that he’s not just revisiting past glories – he’s actively shaping the future of R&B while bringing his audience along for the extraordinary ride.
