ATLANTA – It’s pouring on Usher.

This isn’t the “making it rain” vibe typical of clubs or in his songs – actual water is dripping down from the ceiling onto Usher’s lap.

As we discuss his career sacrifices, he suddenly jumps up from his couch in his dressing room at State Farm Arena, realizing the sprinklers above him are malfunctioning.

“First time for that,” he exclaims, rushing to find a towel while I scramble to catch the dripping water with several cups from the table.

When it rains, it pours, and the 45-year-old singer knows how to turn challenges into opportunities.

Over the last two years, characterized by fans as the “Usherssance,” Usher has enjoyed a resurgence in his nearly three-decade career. There were viral highlights from his Las Vegas residency that brought him back into the spotlight after the pandemic. His NPR Tiny Desk performance rekindled fans’ love for his music, and he captivated viewers during the Super Bowl halftime show with impressive skates and special guests. He also married in a Vegas chapel, released his ninth album, turned heads at the Met Gala, received accolades at the BET Awards, and announced a concert film filmed last fall in Paris.

Now, Usher is gearing up for his Past Present Future tour, which includes 58 shows and was set to launch in his hometown of Atlanta.

However, the leaking sprinkler is not the only concern. Quiet whispers about Usher experiencing pain, late rehearsals, and dancers needing rest circulate as the first concert date approaches. Just hours before the show, Usher issues a statement to postpone it, allowing his body some time to recover. The next day, he postpones the remaining Atlanta shows due to a neck injury, knowing this obstacle is just a temporary storm. He reunites with fans in Washington, D.C., a week later, fully ready.

Reflecting on the past: Usher shares lessons learned

“I’ve made numerous sacrifices throughout my life and career. I don’t regret them, but now I can be extremely specific about what I want to pursue, and I will stay genuine to that,” he shared with YSL News during our exclusive conversations.

These deliberate choices have granted him knowledge and wisdom, contributing to his success. He dedicated countless hours to his music and creative process, which, sadly, led to losing many loved ones who are no longer with him. “I wish I could have spent more time with them,” he reflects.

“There are specific experiences and milestones I really wanted to witness and be part of – like birthdays or achievements of others I admire – but I was unavailable due to prior commitments.”

Now, he aims to be more present in his loved ones’ lives, often leading to limited downtime and sleep.

When he does manage to rest, Usher believes he may have strained his neck. Two days before the tour starts, his holistic wellness therapist applies pressure on his upper body while he participates in a virtual vocal lesson. Usher reaches for his keyboard, eyes closed, his voice flowing through the scales while the therapist presses on his shoulder. “That’s the spot,” he comments.

His vocal coach, Nick Cooper, joins in on the video call. “Keep breathing, you’re doing well,” he encourages as the therapist works on Usher’s neck. “Dig in there.”

“Paintball wasn’t the best idea, man,” Usher remarks casually, speaking of a recent adventure with his family and friends, unaware of the challenges ahead.

The tour crew participated in a paintball outing to strengthen their bonds. “I’ll be fine tomorrow,”

But he isn’t—at least not in the way his fans are accustomed to seeing him.

Usher still driven by his ‘passion’ to succeed

Usher embarked on his musical journey at just 15 years old with his debut album. His ascent continued with the release of “My Way” in 1997, which changed the landscape of R&B with hits like “Nice & Slow” and “You Make Me Wanna ,” backed by a track inspired by Frank Sinatra. Then came 2001’s “8701,” which delivered a trio of popular songs: “U Don’t Have to Call,” “U Remind Me,” and “U Got It Bad.”

His “Confessions” album, which recently marked its 20th anniversary, remains his most successful record and features timeless hits that are still popular at clubs and weddings, such as “Yeah!,” “Confessions Part II,” “Burn,” and “My Boo.”

Usher has successfully ventured into various music styles, collaborating with artists like David Guetta and Marshmello in the EDM scene, as well as Latin stars like J Balvín and Romeo Santos, before embracing Afrobeats with Burna Boy and working with K-pop star Jung Kook on his latest project. He’s performed alongside icons from Beyoncé to H.E.R. — and he played a significant role in launching Justin Bieber’s career.

“I’ve always been motivated by passion, but it became more of a competition where I felt I had to prove my worth,” he explains. “Sure, I have talent, I had a hit record, and a label invested in me to promote my brand. However, I always sensed the need to validate myself and earn my place.”

This underdog mentality persists, even in a seasoned artist.

“Usher was adjusting the Vegas show up until the very last moment,” remarks his wife, Jenn Raymond. “He never takes a break.”

Earlier that day, clad in oversized charcoal overalls and a “U” chain, Jenn played “red light, green light” with their youngest children, Sovereign, 3, and Sire, 2, as Usher prepared for a fitting. The sounds of little feet thumping on the floor and joyful laughter filled the otherwise quiet studio. Eventually, he joined the game, paying close attention to his daughter’s directions.

Usher also has two older sons, Usher “Cinco” Raymond V, 16, and Naviyd, 15, from his previous marriage to Tameka Foster. Balancing tour preparations and parenting often involves managing chaos, logistics, interruptions, and decision-making. He feels his kids keep him grounded, noting, “Their lives are probably more chaotic than mine.”

“Today was Naviyd’s first day as a sophomore, and it’s Sovereign’s first day of preschool. Honestly, I missed them this morning, but I made sure to be there when they got back. I picked up Sovereign from school because I didn’t want to miss that special moment for her.”

He believes he’s just like any other parent, saying, “I simply have a bigger project to manage simultaneously. Balancing everything can get complicated.”

Despite his efforts to stay present, Usher is also considering the road ahead.

“My vocal range and approach have evolved to meet my goals as a singer,” Usher shares. “I focus on the long-term vision. Do I want to be able to perform when I’m in my 60s and 70s? Definitely! That doesn’t mean that will be my only focus, but I want that option for when I sing for my grandchildren.”

Usher balances his sex-symbol allure with his vulnerability

Usher goes shirtless numerous times throughout this tour.

This occurs during a quiet moment as he tries on various outfits for a promotional photo shoot, yet his well-defined abs remain visible.

Usher’s career has been shaped not just by his emotional ballads but also by his standing as a sex symbol. He effortlessly reveals his physique while also laying bare his emotions, embodying longing, desire, seduction, romance, and even turmoil.

His honesty has propelled him along this journey. Usher Raymond IV reflects on his strained relationship with his father, Usher Raymond III, an issue he openly discussed during his BET Awards Lifetime Achievement Award speech and continues to weave into his music.

Usher has poured his heart into the visuals for his tour, sharing his “Confessions” about relationships and personal experiences with audiences everywhere. Even during a career downturn in the mid-2010s, marked by his 2018 divorce from Grace Miguel, he took a step back to focus on what he loves to do: entertain. “At some point, I got swept up in the race to be No. 1, and that became more significant than my passion,” he reflects. “Once I returned to pursuing what I love, that’s when this recent success began to unfold.”

Curate and Connect: Usher’s Vision for the Future

Although it’s not exactly 7 o’clock, and we’re not out cruising in a convertible, it’s just after 3 p.m. and I find myself in the passenger seat as Usher drives his wife, his publicist, and me to the arena. As he navigates the road, Usher can’t help but comment on the rapid changes happening in the city while he plays a part in its evolution.

“There are about 40 acres of land that used to be a parking area, but I’m planning to build a theater here,” he explains, gesturing toward The Gulch, across from the arena and Mercedes Benz Stadium. Usher is envisioning a 5,000-seat venue in partnership with Live Nation, one that will host residencies for artists. “The goal is to create a landmark and cutting-edge theater, incorporating design and technology from places like London, Paris, Berlin, and Las Vegas.”

“I played the Super Bowl, but there are probably still people who don’t recognize my name,” Usher admits. “So for those individuals, I might need to approach things differently. It might not just be about music to create that connection. Maybe I can craft a unique experience instead.”

He expresses excitement about the future, thinking of achieving an EGOT (the prestigious Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony awards). Usher has appeared in films such as “In the Mix” (2005) and “Hands of Stone” (2016), and he made his Broadway debut with “Chicago” in 2006.

He aspires to act in and produce television shows or films—ventures that require both creativity and courage to succeed.

“I dislike limitations. I’ve spent so much time living within boundaries that now I want to break free and reimagine everything. I have ideas that I’ve yet to share,” he shares.

Usher’s Dynamic Energy and Vision for a Unique Tour

It’s clear to everyone that Usher would continue to perfect his show all night if given the chance. His dedication shines through as he meticulously fine-tunes every detail of his performance.

Shawn “Shizz” Porter, Usher’s long-time friend and barber of 21 years, notes, “He has the energy and determination of someone who’s 19 years old.”

It’s now 9:44 p.m. on the Monday before the tour launch, and Usher is backstage rehearsing his dancers for “Good Kisser,” integrating a snippet of Aaliyah’s “Rock the Boat.” He’s showcasing his signature footwork and dynamic lifts with precision.

However, by the following evening, Usher is in so much discomfort that he can’t take part in the final dress rehearsal. Creative director Aakomon Jones steps in for him on stage. Meanwhile, a handler walks Usher’s goldendoodle, Scarlett, across the arena floor. Usher and his wife, Jenn, sit in the stands watching closely with their arms crossed. He sits next to a team member with a laptop, resting his hand on his face, fully immersed in the performance unfolding on stage.

He isn’t nodding along or mouthing the lyrics; instead, he’s carefully observing and analyzing every detail.

“I pay close attention to the disparities that exist between white and Black artists, or between younger artists from specific cultures who later gain recognition,” he reflects. “As time progressed, I became more relevant in the conversation of culture and representation. Now, I’m fully living out my visions and aspirations in real time.”

Despite the tumultuous prelude to his tour, Usher is poised for this moment. His highly advanced production aims to provide fans with an unforgettable journey through the past, present, and a promising future.