Usher, one of R&B’s most enduring stars, has earned his first-ever nomination for Best R&B Album at the 2025 Grammy Awards with his independently released ninth album, Coming Home. Known for his impressive Grammy track record, including eight wins and 24 nominations, Usher has been recognized in other R&B categories over the years. Still, this marks his debut in the Best R&B Album category—a milestone in his lengthy, genre-defining career.
This nomination is particularly significant for Usher, as Coming Home represents his journey back to his musical roots and his confidence in independent artistry. Released independently, the album debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Top R&B Albums chart, showcasing Usher’s ability to thrive outside major label support. The project features collaborations with powerhouse artists like Summer Walker, 21 Savage, and H.E.R., with singles such as “Good Good” and “Risk It All” becoming radio hits across urban, R&B, and rhythmic formats. “Good Good,” in particular, saw remarkable success, leading Billboard’s Adult R&B Airplay chart for six non-consecutive weeks and securing a place in the top 10 for an impressive 51 weeks.
The Grammy nomination aligns with Usher’s ongoing Past Present Future Tour, a reflection on his journey through three decades in music. Currently performing the tour’s U.S. leg, he will conclude in Miami on December 19 before heading to Europe and the UK in April 2025. With each show, Usher brings his journey full circle, capturing his growth as both an artist and individual—a theme strongly echoed in Coming Home. As he describes it, the album is about returning to one’s core self, a message that resonates as he embraces his current chapter with conviction and authenticity.
Usher’s Grammy history highlights his continued influence on R&B, as well as his adaptability within the ever-changing music landscape. His 14x platinum album Confessions, which won Best Contemporary R&B Album in 2005, was recently reissued for its 20th anniversary. Raymond v Raymond also secured him a Grammy win in 2011, as did his collaboration with Alicia Keys, “My Boo.” While the Best Contemporary R&B Album category has since evolved, Usher’s impact within it remains undisputed.
As the Grammys approach on February 2, 2025, fans and critics alike will be watching to see if Coming Home clinches the award. With a legacy built on longevity and evolution, Usher’s nomination for Best R&B Album isn’t just about recognition—it’s a testament to his unrelenting dedication to his craft, his fans, and his genre. For an artist who has continually reshaped R&B over the years, this nomination feels like a long-awaited, well-deserved honor.
