Person Biography:
Usher Raymond IV was born in Dallas, Texas, to Jonetta Patton (née O'Neal) and Usher Raymond III. He began singing at the age of six, joining the local church choir at his mother's behest. After his parents divorced, Usher and his younger brother, James, were raised by their mother in Chattanooga, Tennessee, before moving to Atlanta, Georgia, when Usher was 12 years old.
Jonetta, a single mom, managed Usher's career, a role she assumed after quitting her full-time office job several years ago. Usher's mother has been instrumental in guiding his career, and he has credited her as his best friend.
Usher's music career began to take off when he was spotted by Bryant Reid, brother of L.A. Reid, the co-president of LaFace Records, at a local talent show in 1992. Reid arranged for Usher to audition for his brother, and the popular producer was immediately taken with the young singer's talent. Usher was offered a contract on the spot and released his debut album on LaFace in 1994.
Usher's sophomore effort, "My Way", was released in 1997 and was produced by Jermaine Dupri of So So Def Records. The album was a huge success, thanks in part to the hit singles "You Make Me Wanna" and "Nice & Slow". Usher wrote five of the album's nine tracks, showcasing his growth as a songwriter.
Usher has won numerous awards for his music, including the 1997 Soul Train Award for Best R&B Single by a Male for "You Make Me Wanna". He has also been nominated for several Grammy Awards and has been recognized for his live performances, touring with P. Diddy and Mary J. Blige.
In addition to his music career, Usher has also appeared on several television shows, including "The Oprah Winfrey Show" and "Moesha". He has been recognized for his charitable work, including his involvement with the New Look Foundation, which he founded to support the development of young people.
