Usher came to Philly last week and reminded us all why he’s still one of the greatest performers of our time. Fresh off his wildly popular Las Vegas residency, Usher’s “Past, Present, and Future” concert hit with all the swagger and showmanship fans were craving. The second the lights dimmed, the entire arena seemed to hold its breath, ready to lose itself in decades of hits.
Usher and his crew of dancers rolled out—literally—on roller skates, gliding through songs like “Love In This Club” with a smoothness only Usher can pull off. It was a nod to Atlanta’s skate culture, mixed with the sultry energy of pole dancers who lit up the stage, creating an experience that felt part concert, part club. Usher paid homage to his roots, blending the fun, flashy vibes of his hometown with a top-tier performance.
The setlist was packed with everything fans hoped for—“U Got It Bad,” “DJ Got Us Fallin’ in Love,” and the iconic “Yeah!” had the crowd singing every word. But it was more than just the music. On a two-level stage, dancers acted out a dramatic love story, while Usher’s smooth vocals set the scene. He even got cheeky during “Nice & Slow,” humping the mic stand to the crowd’s delight after transitioning from “Lovers and Friends.” Usher knows exactly how to keep the energy high and the audience hanging on every move.
It wasn’t just about what was happening on stage—Usher made sure to connect with the crowd. At one point, he served drinks to fans in the VIP bar section, breaking that superstar barrier and making the night feel personal. And just when Philly thought they’d seen it all, Usher brought out hometown hero Freeway, who tore through “What We Do” and other local anthems, sending the arena into a frenzy.
Usher’s tribute to Philly didn’t stop there: he rocked a crystal-encrusted Allen Iverson Sixers jersey during “Good Good.” It was a small but powerful gesture that sent the crowd wild, proving once again that Usher knows how to make every show feel special.
For everyone packed into the Wells Fargo Center, this wasn’t just a concert—it was a celebration of Usher’s entire career and a hint at what’s still to come.