artists

Signing his first record deal at the age of 14, Usher Raymond is one ofr'n'b's seasoned pros. Spotted after performing on US TV show Star Search, UsherRaymond was thrust straight in front of record executive LA Reid, whosigned him on the spot. Early signs were slightly deflating as hisself-titled debut flopped upon release, but this was to be his lowestcareer ebb.

Collaborating with Sean 'P Diddy' Combs and JermaineDupri, Usher's stock rose dramatically on the release of 'You Make MeWanna', a smooth uptempo ballad that saw him come of age as an artist.It also showcased his envious capabilities on the dancefloor, as muchof an asset as his vocal range. By 2001, Usher was well and truly inthe groove with 'You Remind Me', 'Pop Ya Collar' and 'U-Turn' followingup early successes and giving any forthcoming r'n'b compilations somestaple material.

Aside from dipping his toes into the passinggenre that was crunk for 2004 single 'Yeah!!', Usher's hitmaking policyhas changed very little since the slick 'You Make Me Wanna' firstaired. 2008 album Here I Stand is his most mature record to date - a knock-on effect of the singer becoming a father and husband for the first time.

Withfive Grammy Awards on his shelf and more than 30 million albums salesacross the world, Usher has developed a Midas touch when it comes toglobe-devouring r'n'b. What's even more frightening is that you knowthere's more to come...