The R&B star had promised surprise guests and a show that celebrated both his past and present when he headlined the performance at the Allegiant Stadium.
Usher, who is known for hits including “Yeah!”, “OMG” and “You Make Me Wanna...”, told fans what to expect during a press conference hosted by Apple Music in Las Vegas on Tuesday, and teased surprise guests.
In the end he was joined by rappers Lil Jon and Ludacris for a rendition of their smash 2004 single “Yeah!”.
Usher commented at his press conference: “I would be a fool to not play ‘Yeah!’” Usher said. “Let’s just start there. It would be foolish to make it all the way to Las Vegas—Jon is here, Luda’s here—and not play ‘Yeah!’”
Alicia Keys also appeared with Usher, performing “If I Ain’t Got You” and duetting on their 2004 single “My Boo”.
Usher was then joined by artist HER, who played guitar on “U Got It Bad”.
Usher played:
- “Caught Up”
- “Love in this Club”
- “If I Ain’t Got You” (with Alicia Keys)
- “My Boo” (with Alicia Keys)
- “Confessions, Pt II” / “Nice & Slow” / “Let It Burn” (medley)
- “U Got It Bad” (with HER)
- “Turn Down For What” (with Lil Jon)
- “Yeah!” (with Lil Jon and Ludacris)
There had been rumours that Taylor Swift could join Usher, as she flew back from tour in Japan to watch her partner Travis Kelce compete in the game. In 2011, Swift invited Usher onstage during her Speak Now world tour for a duet performance of “Yeah!”.
The Super Bowl is the final game of the American football season. Reigning champions the Kansas City Chiefs beat the San Francisco 49ers, with a touchdown in overtime.
