On Sunday, Usher received his Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2024 BET Awards.
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But what was the most interesting was the the musical tribute that came before was comprised of all-women artists: namely Keke Palmer, Chloe Bailey, Coco Jones, Teyana Taylor, Victoria Monet to name a few. And while the ladies did what needed to be done, many online were wondering why they chose to go that route and not highlight the handful of current male R&B artists that taking the mantle and pushing forward in the genre in their own ways.
So it got us thinking about it to and made us ponder just which male R&B artists would’ve been a good choice to honor Usher instead. The internet has their ideas and so do we. So let’s kick things off with…
Lucky Daye
Arguably the current prince of R&B right now, Lucky Daye’s discography, electric performances, sultry sound, and funky style would have made him the number one perfect person to give honor to Usher.
He’s got swag, he’s got sex appeal, he sings for the ladies, and he’s got the voice to back it up. This one was one of the biggest misses for sure. (But if you want to see for yourself, catch him on his own Algorithm tour, starting soon.)
Chris Brown
Say what you want and feel how you want to feel—Chris Brown has both the moves and the voice to give Usher his just dues. There’s really no debating it. Sorry, not sorry!
Luke James
I don’t know if Luke James was booked and busy or not but he undoubtedly should’ve gotten the call for this tribute. Not only did he absolutely kill playing Johnny Gill in the New Edition Story (using all of his own vocals by the way), his tribute to Toni Braxton goes viral online every few months for his stellar peformance.
Luke, I’m so sorry. Maybe next time.
Vedo
Vedo wasn’t picked as background singer for Usher’s Tiny Desk concert for no reason! The way he masterfully hit Usher’s signature falsetto in the opening of “Superstar” is proof positive alone.
Durand Bernarr
When you think of singers who have the range—you’d better have Durand Bernarr at the front of your mind. And if you needed proof, just look at his viral Tiny Desk Concert from last summer.
Eric Bellinger
Speaking of another singer who had the range and vocal agility, Eric Bellinger definitely should’ve gotten the call for this tribute. Whether for a serenade or for something more up-tempo, Eric has the chops for the job.
Tyrese
Now while Tyrese and Usher maybe in the same bracket, Tyrese comes from the school of “Beggin’ R&B”—which let’s you know right there that he would’ve torn that tribute up. Plus, as he told The Root on the red carpet prior to the BET Awards, he’s Usher’s biggest fan and I’m sure that would’ve shown through brilliantly in his performance.
Dixson
If you’re looking for a soulful sound with velvety smooth feels, then look no further than Dixson. It would’ve been such a treat to hear him take on one of Usher’s hits.
Tone Stith
If there’s one word you need to know when it comes to describing Tone Stith, it’s: VOCALS.
Kevin Ross
I can’t get Kevin Ross’ version of “A Song For You” out my head and it’s been years since I’ve heard it. That coupled with his own original music would’ve made him a great contender for sure!
Omarion
I know the Omarion challenge made more people laugh than dance, but if we’re looking for a good dance equivalent—O isn’t one to be slept on.
Josh Levi
If you’re not hip to Josh Levi, you ought to be! Not only is he a phenomenal singer, but his energy and passion for his craft is apparent. He definitely could have done what needed to be done!
Bruno Mars
Say what you will but Bruno has both the singing and acting chops to do Usher well. His presence could’ve been electrifying!
Kenyon Dixon
If we’re talking current R&B artist who could bring the energy, then we need to make sure Kenyon Dixon is in that conversation. Not having him there was a miss.
Avery Wilson
All you have to do is watch Avery Wilson sing Tevin Campbell’s “Can We Talk” as a background singer during Babyface’s Tiny Desk Concert back in June 2023 to see that he would’ve been the perfect addition.
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