Dressed in a cerulean blue jacket over an apple green T-shirt paired with white jeans, blue high top sneakers, a silver watch and his signature shades, Usher looked every bit the inch of his pop star persona. The 31-year-old singer who’s in Dubai for his Middle Eastern debut will be performing live for 12,000 fans in Media City tonight (Thursday, March 10). With 65 million albums sold worldwide it’s not hard to see why the music maestro is a hit in the region. Ahlan!’s Shannon Wylie caught up with Usher at the Atlantis hotel, where the star is staying, in advance of his sellout concert to talk music, the Middle East and making a statement…
Prince Harry pulled out of his planned trip to Dubai because of turmoil elsewhere in the Middle East; was there ever a chance that you wouldn’t come to Dubai?
I’ve got an obligation to show up when I actually say I will. I’m dedicated to my fans. It’ll be a show and an experience to remember for many years from now. The next time I only hope I’ll have more time in Dubai.
You’ve been in Dubai for a day and a half now, what have you been doing?
I didn’t really get a chance to leave the hotel, but I had dinner at a restaurant here with a friend. There’s an incredible aquarium. I got to chase the little fishes.
Have you made any changes to your performance for the concert in Dubai?
Yes, I did. I was very mindful of the standards here, so we made some adjustment to our female wardrobe and I won’t be taking my shirt off, but I wish I had to because I know the girls like it - this is really about an incredible experience for my fans. I won’t be able to take my shirt off tonight, but you’ll still be able to see a sweaty T-shirt.
What tunes do you play to get yourself in a party mood?
I listen to anything from the 90s and late 80s. A sure party-starter for me is James Brown.
What do you think of the people in the Middle East?
Cool. Everybody’s chilled. The people I’ve come in contact with here are very kind and accommodating. The only thing I’ve had to do is take my shades off in customs.
Justin Bieber obviously regards you as his role model, how does that make you feel?
I did something good. I guess it’s a testament to you as an artist that you’ve done something great. I admired Michael Jackson, I still do.
What is your personal opinion on Justin Bieber?
He’s cool. I guess that, given the success he’s had in a very short amount of time, he’s doing very well. He’s a legend in my mind. His first steps have been incredible. I hope he continues to strive to be his best.
Why do you think you made it so big?
You can only hope that in this lifetime you do incredible work to transcend pop culture in a way that everybody around the world can connect to.
What’s next for your music?
Right now I’m in transition. I’m introducing a new style of music in what I can ‘Rev’…