Usher Discusses The Challenge of Creating a Viral Moment During Super Bowl Performance: 'I Gotta Do It in 13 Minutes

Amid heightened anticipation, Usher delved into the intricacies of crafting a captivating Super Bowl LVIII halftime show performance during a press conference interview with Apple Music. Tasked with encapsulating three decades of musical prowess into a mere 13 minutes, Usher acknowledged the inherent challenge this posed.

"It's definitely been a challenge to squeeze 30 years into 13 minutes," Usher candidly admitted, recognizing the daunting task ahead. With the clock ticking, he grappled with the delicate balance of curating a set list that pays homage to his illustrious career while ensuring an unforgettable spectacle for viewers worldwide.

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Navigating the labyrinth of song selections, Usher revealed insights into his creative process, divulging that he drew inspiration from various "fantasy lists" circulating within the industry. These compilations, brimming with dream collaborators and iconic tracks, provided valuable insights as he meticulously pieced together his performance repertoire.

Mindful of honouring his past achievements, celebrating his present endeavours in Las Vegas and charting a course for the future, Usher carefully curated a set list that traversed the spectrum of his musical journey. "I was very mindful of my past, celebrating my present — which is here in Las Vegas — and thinking about where we're headed in the future," he articulated, underscoring the thematic essence of his performance.

Delving deeper into his creative vision, Usher reflected on the thematic undercurrents coursing through his music, emphasising the exploration of "life, love and emotion." Each song selection was imbued with profound sentiment, offering viewers a glimpse into the myriad experiences that have shaped his artistic evolution.

Furthermore, Usher sought to infuse his performance with innovative elements, including nods to his Las Vegas residency experiences. "I thought about some things that I had created here in Las Vegas like skating and doing things that I had not done on stage up until this point to be able to share that with the world," he elaborated, hinting at the awe-inspiring spectacles awaiting audiences.

-Sushmita Sarkar