Usher Raymond IV received a warm welcome as he returned to his hometown of Chattanooga, Tennessee, on April 20th.
Surrounded by loved ones including his wife, three of his kids, and his mother, the eight-time Grammy award-winner received the key to the city and heartfelt proclamations from state and local officials.
For Usher, the homecoming was more than just a ceremonial gesture; it was a reminder of where it all began. Spending his formative years in Chattanooga before pursuing his music career in Atlanta, Usher spoke emotionally about the pivotal role his hometown played in shaping his journey.
“Before I even get to activating the artistry and creativity and all of the other things, it was their patience, it was their time they took in helping me understand this moment right here,” Usher said.
He continued, “My mom she knows this, I never take two seconds to enjoy anything because I’m always looking to the next day…because that’s what life teaches you sometimes you just keep going and move on to the next thing but being able to be present and see you see me because I love y’all everywhere that I go.”
In his speech, Usher also acknowledged Chattanooga’s history of segregation and the symbolism of the key and lock.
“With this key, I hope I can unlock something that I think needs to be heard,” Usher said. “That needs to be seen, needs to be recognized because I feel like I represent the other side of the incredible history that Chattanooga offers.”
Beyond his musical achievements, Usher is also a devoted family man. The singer is a proud father of four children: sons Usher “Cinco” V and Naviyd Ely with his ex-wife, Tameka Foster, as well as a daughter, Sovereign Bo and a son, Sire Castrello with his wife, Jenn Goicoechea.
