When people think about famous music artists, Michael Jackson has set the proverbial standard of how an album can have an impact. His impact is realized simply by asking the question, “What is their (insert artist) ‘Thriller?'” Because of that album’s massive influence and popular success, there is unspoken but loud pressure to create a musical body of work that can be unique and legacy-informing for artists. While some entertainers are still chasing a project like Jackson’s “Thriller,” the culture has agreed that some artists have accomplished that goal. Usher Raymond is among those, with the 2004 release of “Confessions.” Nurtured early in Chattanooga, TN, but cultivated in Atlanta, GA, Usher has been a consistent voice in music across decades. Although “Confessions” may be considered his defining album, Usher entered the music space with a self-titled project in 1994. However, his sophomore effort, “My Way,” captured the hearts of music listeners. From that point on, the...

Music executive Larry Jackson is on a mission to use his expertise to take over the game.

There is no one quite like Usher Raymond IV (Sorry, but we don’t make the rules). And while music may be embedded in Usher’s DNA, he wants the world to know that he has also always been about his business, man. In fact, the superstar revealed that no matter where life takes him, he will always find a way to create music.

Throughout his career of nearly three decades, Usher and his philanthropic efforts have greatly supported disadvantaged communities. Today, Usher’s New Look (UNL) — the R&B legend’s nonprofit organization for under-resourced youth — has announced it has received a $500,000 grant from Truist Foundation. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Usher's New Look (@ushersnewlook) The grant will support UNL’s high school leadership program, including its financial literacy programs, according to a press release. “Breaking the cycle of poverty and debt is tantamount to the future success of young people, particularly in these challenging times where we see that there are currently 16 million children living in poverty today,” Careshia Moore , president and CEO of UNL, said in a press release. “This is, therefore, a proud moment for Usher’s New Look, and we are so very grateful to Truist Foundation for this transformational grant that will enable us to further our mission and touch the...