By Jae-Ha Kim
Chicago Sun-Times
August 6, 2001
When he acts, Usher Raymond IV goes by his full name. But when he sings, no last name is necessary for the 22-year-old hottie.
It’s been three years since Usher released a new album, but that all changes when his sultry “8701” hits stores Tuesday. Read on for his thoughts on boy bands, acting and those rumors about his dating TLC’s Chilli.
Boy bands are OK, but I never wanted to be in one. I make music for everybody. I’m sure that ‘N Sync thinks they’re doing the same thing. I will say this about boy bands: When a young fan likes your music it ensures your longevity to a certain extent. But I like having an older demographic, too.
I really admire Stevie Wonder. I respect him. He has been such a strong creative force for so many different generations. Michael Jackson also has built a great career, and we love him for all the entertainment he has given us. I wouldn’t want the scandals he’s been through, though.
Acting is something I definitely take very seriously. But I’ll never leave singing. I have some fans write and say, “Where are you? You haven’t done a record in three years!” I never left. I want to do both.
Chilli from TLC is a good friend, although there are all these rumors that I’m dating her. According to the press, I’m dating someone new every day. I love beautiful women, but I have no time to date right now. When I date, I focus on what’s going to allow me to have stability. No woman wants to date a man who’s in love with you half the time.
Fans are loyal. Some artists rush albums out because they fear their fans will go away. Mine wait for me.
