R&B singer Usher Raymond, 36, is featured on the current cover of Billboard magazine wearing a crown to symbolize his lofty status as the King of R&B. But fans are wondering when Usher’s long-awaited album is going to drop.
From Thatgrapejuice:
In a trait common to major names in 2014, Mr Raymond seems to be making the transition from releasing diamond-certified albums and near-annual #1 hits to struggling to even land gold certifications.
Indeed, the star’s most recent opus – 2012’s ‘Looking 4 Myself’ – has sold 504,000 Stateside, according to Nielsen SoundScan — 800,000 fewer than the LP prior (2010’s ‘Raymond vs. Raymond’).
And while this Fall was to bring with it his triumphant return, the campaign ‘Good Kisser’ led LP was brought to an abrupt halt and its release bumped to an undisclosed date next year.
Speaking to Billboard, the performer explained his reason for the delay. He also opened up on the waywardness of his mentee Justin Bieber.
Soundbites below…
On Delaying Album His Album:
“I just ain’t ready, meaning I have more that I want to say and more that I want to do. My process is pretty different. L.A. Reid will tell you, it takes two albums to make one with Usher.”
On Justin Bieber:
“Our relationship is more man-to-man now, He’s making his own decisions and it’s important to show support. I can say I’m not happy with all the choices my friend has made, but I’m supportive of him. I try my hardest to give as much positive reinforcement as I can. I’ll punch him in the f—ing chest when I need to, and give him a hug and kiss when I need to. It’s more than just mentoring. I love the kid.”
