Usher – Scream

Written by Alison on July 13, 2012

It’s no surprise that I am a big fan of pop music. Anything that I believe is well-done and pure ear candy, I become obsessed with and try to convert everyone into a fan. I firmly believe that the best pop songs to come out in this decade are none other than Rihanna’s “Only Girl” and (my boyfriend) Usher’s “OMG.” I never get tired of these songs and that says a lot for me. SPOILER ALERT: if you haven’t seen The Knocks live, just wait till you hear their live remix bit and tell me that “OMG” doesn’t get you going.

Anyway, focusing attention on someone other than the oversexed and out of control RiRi, Usher, as of late, has been making bonafide pop magic and releasing some of the best hits of his career. Okay, I’m mostly talking about “Climax,” but still, some solid tracks for the times. I’m writing about his latest single, “Scream,” because 1) it makes me want to dance an extremely complicated routine and 2) I really want to just discuss the music video. A few weeks back, Usher starred in NYC’s Fuerza Bruta, a show that can only be described as an Argentinian Cirque du Soleil that turns into a rave. I’ve been fortunate to attend two showings of Fuerza Bruta and it is the coolest thing ever (I hear a close second belongs to Sleep No More, but I still need to do that – I will report back later). Anyway, Usher performed as the solitary man who starts off the show and essentially runs and flies on a treadmill while bullets hit him…it sets the tone of the show. For the music video for “Scream,” Usher takes the act and adds his signature smooth moves. He also features the “mermaids” bit, in which women beautifully play in water above the guests’ heads. The video only gives you a taste as to what takes place in the show. I recommend you go on your own. Listen to Usher while you’re on your way.