This video has both a great picture and great sound. The stage sets and dance choreography are top-notch. There’s no question that Usher is a great entertainer. The question really comes into the whole musical equation. First off, I don’t think he was lip-synching, nor did there seem to be any use of autotune to correct vocal problems. So, that says the man can sing. There’s no question about that. In addition, many of his songs are incredibly infectious. This isn’t my type of music, but I enjoy it, nonetheless. The real question comes about in terms of music and musicianship. Other than a dancer with a horn you really don’t see any musicians. So, my guess is, all the music is nothing but tape loops. That really makes you wonder when Usher is touted as a songwriter, does he really write music, or is it just samples? I can’t say. I will say that the show is entertaining. If you want great musicianship and music played by musicians, go elsewhere. You won’t find it here. However, if you want an entertainment extravaganza with a good singer and some catchy hooks, you’ve come to the right place.

This review is available in book format (hardcover and paperback) in Music Street Journal: 2011  Volume 6 at lulu.com/strangesound.