Usher’s legacy continues with “COMING HOME.”
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TOP 5
Honorable Mention. On The Side
How come I’ve encountered more songs revolving around infidelity than those centered on Jesus?
One underrated aspect of Usher’s music is his ability to weave compelling storytelling into his tracks. Take “Same Girl” with R-Freaky, for example. “On The Side” feels like a spiritual successor to that song. Here, Usher delves into the complexities of being involved with a woman who’s already committed, detailing their lengths to maintain their clandestine affair. What’s intriguing is how he goes into detail, even outlining a business-like strategy to keep their relationship under wraps.
I don’t think R&B artists know how to make music that is NOT about cheating these days.
5. I Am The Party
Yep, fellas, this is the track that got our black women flying out to Vegas in droves.
Let’s be real, though: This song is slick as s**t. In “I Am The Party,” Usher lets his chick know that she doesn’t have to go to Stadium tonight; he’s able to turn his crib into Stadium, with VIP sections, money being thrown, liquor, and friskiness.
The song’s sonic landscape is tailor-made for sultry bedroom R&B vibes. Its intense, slow-burning instrumental has the power to effortlessly coax listeners into a seductive atmosphere. Usher’s approach to the vocals is subtle yet effective, as he skillfully sets the mood without overpowering it with excessive passion, ensuring the focus remains on the sensual ambiance.
Did this guy end this song with a quick “ooh wee?” Alright, it’s time to call the police.
4. Standing Next To You (Ft. Jungkook)
It’s ironic (And also refreshing) to see Usher seamlessly aligning himself with the next generation of exceptional pop artists, much like he once was.
If Michael Jackson had a protege during his prime, their collaboration might have resembled “Standing Next To You.” While JungKook and Usher aren’t close to touching Michael, in my opinion, their synergy in this track evokes his essence. With high-pitched vocals that complement the timeless disco beat and lyrics depicting a love that withstands the test of time, the duo captures the spirit of Michael’s exaggerated expressions of love from that era.
I’ve never heard this song before doing this review, so it’s fair game for being added to this list.
3. Luckiest Man
Nope, the luckiest man in the world is definitely Brock Purdy.
Amidst a landscape filled with songs about infidelity and clandestine rendezvous (elements present in this album), “Luckiest Man” stands out as a refreshing ode from Usher to his partner, celebrating her uniqueness, patience, and overall greatness. Beyond its refreshing content, the track captivates with its hard-hitting R&B beat, irresistibly catchy hook, and a blend of passionate and laid-back vocals that showcase Usher’s versatility.
2. Good Good (Ft. Summer Walker & 21 Savage)
I wish my exes “bad bad,” but that’s just me…
“Good Good” is powered by a babymaking, uptempo R&B beat with these amazing synths and random-ass sirens. Over it, Usher and Summer Walker go back and forth on some passive-aggressive/”I wish my ex well” s**t. Their vocal performances are truly impressive (Summer puts in effort as if it were game 7).
Thankfully, 21 Savage raps in “Good Good.” In his lone verse on the song, he uses a laidback delivery to also wish his ex well. Surprisingly, he sounds the nicest out of the three artists. 21 legit sounds ready to be his ex’s Task Rabbit.
1. Ruin (Ft. Pheelz)
This is easily one of Usher’s most beautiful tracks to date.
In “Ruin,” Usher employs a bit of reverse psychology. He reflects on a past relationship with a girl who had a profound impact, to the point where it has influenced his approach to other relationships. Now, he reveals that he’s intentionally ignoring calls from other girls and opting to offer Apple Bees over Filet Mignon to them.
As enticing as Usher’s lyrics are in this song, I love the song’s style. The smooth, afro-inspired beat perfectly complements Usher and Pheelz’s slick, passionate, and soothing vocals. Usher also delivers a chorus that is incredibly infectious and touching.
SONG BY SONG BREAKDOWN
1. Coming Home (Ft. Burna Boy) (3.5/5)
2. Good Good (Ft. Summer Walker & 21 Savage) (4.5/5)
3. A-Town Girl (Ft. Latto) (3.5/5)
4. Cold Blooded (Ft. The Dream) (3/5)
5. Kissing Strangers (3.5/5)
6. Keep On Dancing (4/5)
7. Risk It All (Ft. H.E.R.) (4.5/5)
8. Bop (4/5)
9. Stone Kold Freak (4/5)
10. Ruin (Ft. Pheelz (5/5)
11. BIG (3.5/5)
12. On The Side (4/5)
13. I Am The Party (4.5/5)
14. I Love You (4/5)
15. Please U (3.5/5)
16. Luckiest Man (4.5/5)
17. Margiela (4/5)
18. Room In a Room (3.5/5)
19. One Of Them Ones (4/5)
20. Standing Next To You (with Jungkook) (4.5/5)
OVERALL RATING
(C+)
Usher’s upcoming performance at the Super Bowl is monumental, highlighting his status as an icon in the music industry. The opportunity to perform at such a prestigious event is reserved for the biggest names in music, and Usher’s extensive catalog of hits certainly places him among them. Coming Home serves as a testament to his enduring talent and adds another impressive chapter to his storied career, solidifying his legacy as one of the greats in the music industry.
Usher’s charisma and remarkable vocal talent elevate him throughout Coming Home. Despite delving into themes like infidelity, he navigates them with a sense of maturity and tact that sets him apart. While other artists may face criticism for similar topics, Usher’s delivery exudes integrity, making his music feel tasteful.
Coming Home has its highs and lows. While the R&B tracks stand out with their soulful vibes, some songs feel forced and miss the mark. Tracks like “A-Town Girl” come off as a little corny, “BIG” feels like some America’s Got Talent bulls**t, and “Cold Blooded” ventures too far into experimentation. While younger Usher might have been able to execute these tracks differently, it seems that older Usher shines best in his traditional R&B element.
The success of this album ultimately depends on Usher’s intentions and goals. If his aim was to secure a quick financial gain or to demonstrate his ability to produce hit records intermittently, then it can be deemed a success. Similarly, if he intended to showcase his versatility as an artist, it can be seen in a positive light. However, if the goal was to fully recapture the essence of his earlier work, some may feel it falls short. Regardless of the perspective, Usher’s continued influence and presence in the music industry are to be appreciated.
Quincy is the creator of Ratings Game Music. He loves writing about music, taking long walks on beaches, and spaghetti that fights him back.
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Give “Cold Blooded” another listen. Listen to the vocal performance, and production. It’s experimental, but that’s important in music. I innovation is Necessary in RnB.
Hmmm I’m definitely gonna listen to it again. Thanks for pointing this out.