2004-03-17 ::
Usher Releases Skeletons from Closet on New Album
 
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Usher reflects on the heartbreak from a real relationship gone sour on his new album, Confessions.

Due out March 23, Usher’s fifth studio album includes songs about his breakup with former girlfriend Rozonda “Chilli” Thomas of TLC fame. Eight years Thomas’s junior, the 25-year-old R&B star wasn’t ready for marriage and children so he let her go. Songs that highlight his personal troubles are “Take Your Hand” and “Let It Burn” among others on the effort.

Usher attributes newfound maturity and vocal growth on the new album to the recent study of R&B legends like Otis Redding and Donny Hathaway and his split with Thomas. These personal revelations create a darker image, but Usher says the intent is to release the baggage and move on. The album is considered his most personal to date.

Marking Usher’s return following a three-year hiatus, Confessions features the production work of the Neptunes, Jermaine Dupri, Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis, Rich Harrison and R. Kelly. Although “Yeah” was leaked to urban radio, the official first single is “Burn.”

Usher made his recording debut on the "Poetic Justice" soundtrack in 1993 before being signed to LaFace Records. His self-titled debut album in 1994 featured a hit dance tune, “Think Of You” but greater success came three years later. Sporting a new image, improved dance moves and excellent production from Jermaine Dupri, Usher landed a coveted spot on Janet Jackson’s The Velvet Rope Tour, gaining more widespread acknowledgement.

Collaborations with performers including Monica and contributions to soundtracks have gained him a loyal following. His latest contribution is Beyonce’s new video for “Naughty Girl.” Beyonce calls him the “Fred Astaire of our times,” and he will prove it with some graceful moves in this flirtatious video.


Here is the track list for Confessions:

Yeah
Red Light
Confessions II
Burn
Caught Up
Superstar
Truth Hurts
Simple Things
Bad Girl
Can U Handle It
Do It to Me
Take Your Hand
Sweet Lies
Follow Me


Our Thoughts

Usher may possess vocal maturity but his recent departure from relationship with older girlfriend Rozonda Thomas of TLC suggests he isn’t ready for marriage.