Explore Usher's 15 Best Deep Cuts
We’re diving into his best album cuts in today’s edition of Usher Week. You’re much welcome to read it and disagree if you like.
Usher’s B-sides, often overlooked in favor of his chart-topping hits, showcase a depth of emotional vulnerability and experimental soundscapes that diverge from his mainstream releases. These tracks reveal the artist’s willingness to explore complex themes and musical styles, from soulful ballads to edgy R&B grooves, offering a fuller picture of his artistic range. Through these deep cuts, listeners gain insight into Usher’s creative process and his ability to connect on a more personal level beyond the spotlight’s glare.
We hope his newest release this Friday showcases more of that, but the fifteen deep cuts stood out the most for us.
“Crazy” (1994)
“Crazy” from Usher’s often-forgotten 1994 self-titled debut album introduces us to raw and youthful talent, his voice brimming with the vitality of new love and potential heartbreak. The song is an early indicator of Usher’s ability to blend vulnerability with vocal confidence, setting the stage for what would become a hallmark of his career. It’s a testament to his natural affinity for R&B, underpinned by production that nods respectfully to the genre’s roots while hinting at its future evolution.
“Smile Again” (1994)
The song’s slow tempo and gentle instrumentation provide a canvas for Usher’s soulful vocals. A departure from his more upbeat, dance-centric tracks, it delves into themes of regret and reconciliation. Usher’s vocal delivery in “Smile Again” is particularly noteworthy for its vulnerability.
“Just Like Me” (1997)
In “Just Like Me,” Usher takes a more upbeat and assertive approach. Taken from My Way, the track is characterized by its lively beat by JD and Manuel Seal and confident lyrics assisted by Lil’ Kim, showcasing Usher’s versatility as a performer. It’s a celebration of self-assuredness and individuality, recurrent themes in Usher’s work but presented here with a fresh perspective.
“Bedtime” (1997)
By the time “Bedtime” graced our ears, Usher had refined his approach to storytelling through music. This track weaves a narrative of intimacy with a tender and convincing delivery draped over a backdrop of seductive beats. His performance on “Bedtime” exemplifies how he can capture the listener’s imagination, transporting them to a space where Usher’s voice is the guiding light in the quiet hours of the night.
“Can U Help Me” (2001)
The year 2001’s offering “Can U Help Me” from 8701 finds Usher in a contemplative state, seeking solace and understanding amidst emotional turmoil. Here, his plea for assistance is not just a question but a raw exposition of human need, laid bare against stripped-down instrumentation that allows his vocals to take center stage. It’s a poignant reminder of the personal growth and self-reflection often accompanying life’s more challenging moments.
“How Do I Say” (2001)
Back-to-back on 8701, “How Do I Say” is a unique blend of languages and musical styles, showcasing Usher’s willingness to experiment with his sound. The song features a mix of Spanish and English lyrics set against a backdrop of Latin-influenced rhythms. Say, “Thank you, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis.”
“Superstar” (2004)
With “Superstar” from the monumental Confessions album in 2004, Usher pays homage to the object of his affection with silky smooth vocals that glide effortlessly over lush harmonies. The song is an intimate serenade that highlights his versatility as an artist who can oscillate between up-tempo dance tracks and soul-stirring ballads. It is evidence of his deep understanding of rhythm and mood, crafting an auditory experience akin to a private concert.
“Truth Hurts” (2004)
Another Confessions deep cut provided by Jimmy Jam, Terry Lewis, and The Avila Brothers, “Truth Hurts,” is an impressive look at the complexities and pains of relationships. Usher delves into themes of betrayal and the emotional turmoil of recognizing hard truths. The song’s stripped-down production focuses on Usher’s vocals and the heartfelt lyrics. The honesty and raw emotion in Usher’s voice convey a sense of authenticity and relatability.
“That’s What It’s Made For” (2004)
“That’s What It’s Made For,” also from Confessions, showcases Usher’s skillful play on words, merging playful innuendo with an infectious beat that compels the body to move. This track encapsulates a moment when sensuality was celebrated openly in R&B, and Usher does so with a finesse that neither overshadows nor underplays the subject matter. His confident delivery underscores his maturity as an artist unafraid to explore and express various facets of human desire.
“Seduction” (2004)
“Seduction,” another cut from Confessions, offers a darker, more mysterious side of attraction, wrapped in layers of synths and steady rhythms. Usher’s voice here acts almost as another instrument, weaving through the melody with precision and intent. The song invites us into a world where allure and mystique meet, further showcasing Usher’s range vocally and emotionally.
“Before I Met You” (2008)
Fast forward to 2008, “Before I Met You” from the album Here I Stand presents a reflective narrative contrasting past indiscretions with present virtues found in newfound love. This track is notable for its introspective lyrics and mature perspective on personal growth through relationships. Musically, it balances contemporary sounds with classic R&B elements, bridging Usher’s earlier work and his current artistic explorations.
“Mars vs. Venus” (2010)
A fan favorite from the mixed Raymond v. Raymond, “Mars vs. Venus” is a sensuous and intimate portrayal of romantic connection. The song features a smooth, flowing beat that creates an atmosphere of closeness and intimacy. Usher’s vocal performance is sultry and engaging, perfectly complementing the song’s theme.
“Pro Lover” (2010)
Usher dons the persona of a seasoned romantic expert with swaggering confidence. The groove is undeniably catchy, boasting a fusion of R&B with hints of funk that dares you not to nod your head or tap your feet. Lyrically playful yet vocally earnest, this track reinforces Usher’s ability to craft fun and substantial songs.
“Sins of My Father” (2012)
“Sins of My Father” from 2012’s Looking 4 Myself finds Usher wrestling with inherited flaws and personal redemption against a backdrop of soulful melodies and modern production techniques. There’s a depth to this song that speaks to generational narratives and individual accountability, delivered through Usher’s emotive interpretation, elevating the material beyond mere confession to catharsis.
“Tell Me” (2016)
Lastly, “Tell Me” from 2016’s Hard II Love sees Usher pushing into extended-form storytelling over an evolving soundscape that builds tension and release across eight minutes. His vocal control shines as he navigates through peaks and valleys of intensity, laying bare a longing that is both physical and emotional. This track stands out for its ambitious structure. It proves that even decades into his career, Usher remains committed to experimenting with form and content within his music, whether his core R&B fans like it or not.