London was buzzing on Saturday night as Usher delivered an unforgettable performance at The O2, marking the first of ten highly anticipated shows as part of his Usher: Past Present Future Tour. With 20,000 fans in attendance, the global superstar set the stage for what promises to be one of the biggest live events of the year. Critics have already praised the show, awarding it four- and five-star reviews.
From the moment Usher took the stage, the energy in the arena was electric. Moving seamlessly through his extensive catalog, he delivered a performance divided into ten distinct acts, blending smooth vocals with high-energy choreography—including an impressive 15-minute skate routine. Spanning three decades of hits, his setlist took fans on a journey from early tracks like ‘Call Me A Mack' to global anthems such as ‘Yeah!' ‘U Got It Bad,' ‘Love In This Club' and ‘There Goes My Baby.' More recent hits, including ‘Climax' and ‘Good Good' showcased his enduring relevance in the industry.
Taking a moment to reflect on his 30-year career, Usher addressed the crowd directly, expressing his gratitude for their unwavering support. “Hopefully my music has been something to you. Maybe we fell in love together, maybe we had a good time together, but something brought you here. And I just want you to know, I appreciate the connection. If I didn't have you to cheer me on, I wouldn't continue to do this.”
As always, Usher brought his signature showmanship, making his way through the crowd during ‘My Boo,' handing out custom “Ush Pounds” and pouring shots for fans. Embracing the local spirit, he even joked, “I will take a pint as we’re here in London!”—a moment that had the audience cheering.
The final act featured a powerful moment of reflection, as Usher engaged in a Zoom call with his younger self, looking back on three decades of music and legacy before closing the show with the anthemic ‘Without You.'
Beyond the music, the night was also a spectacle of fashion. Usher’s wardrobe was a carefully curated collection of bespoke looks, including a Union Jack jacket and trousers by Mowalola, alongside collaborations with Robert Wun, Ralph Lauren, Edward Cumming, Luis De Javier, Luar, David Koma, and Alpine Stars. Each outfit was as meticulously crafted as the performance itself.
The night also drew in an A-list crowd, with stars like model Leomie Anderson, presenters Maya Jama and Judi Love, and actor Daniel Kaluuya spotted in the audience.
After the show, Usher continued the celebration with a stylish afterparty on the River Thames. Boarding a deluxe Uber Boat by Thames Clippers at North Greenwich Pier, he and over 100 VIP guests cruised past London landmarks like The London Eye and Tower Bridge before arriving at Embankment Pier. The night continued at his exclusive afterparty, The Yeah Man, at The Box Soho, with guests including musician RAYE and Burberry CCO Daniel Lee.
The Usher: Past Present Future Tour will move on to Paris, Berlin, and Amsterdam in mid-April before returning to London for two final shows on May 6 and 7.
For tickets, visit UsherWorld.com.
