Usher, Bad Habits | Track Review 🎵

Grammy-winning R&B superstar Usher returns with a great addition to any love-themed playlist with the enjoyable and honest, “Bad Habits.”

“I’m in love, I’m just bad it / I just can’t escape all of these bad habits.” Relatable – perfect fuel for a great R&B song, right? Right! Furthermore, those excerpted lyrics from the chorus of “Bad Habits” suit Usher to a T, NO CAP! Although ‘Ursher’s’ new single is longer than many modern singles (north of four minutes), it’s well worth every second.  Also, NO CAP!

“Bad Habits” features lush production work by Pierre Medor and Lxrd Rossi. The sound hearkens back to the R&B of old (think 80s). Makes perfect sense, of course, given Zapp is sampled (“Computer Love”).  While “Bad Habits” possesses classic R&B cues, but it also sounds fresh enough to fly in 2020.  It’s a great balancing act. Following the introduction, “Bad Habits” is anchored by some hard drums which are clearly idiomatic of modern times.

While the sound plays a big role in the success of “Bad Habits,” nothing and nobody else plays a bigger role than Usher. First and foremost, we get high-flying, elite vocals from the Grammy winner.  Honestly, he sounds as strong as he did in his heyday. He’s nearly 42? Couldn’t be.  Of course, the other big piece of the puzzle for “Bad Habits” that makes it successful – LOVE.  The main is at his best when matters of the heart are in plan. Here, he’s bad at it, and that’s music to the listener’s ears.  Also, music to the listener’s ears? The catchy, memorable chorus excerpted at the top!

Final Thoughts 

All in all, approach 42 years of age, Usher has still got it, period.  “Bad Habits” is a solid, enjoyable, contemporary R&B record.  Great vocals, relatable theme, and awesome production make this a surefire winner.  Great addition to any love-centric playlist!

Usher • “Bad Habits” • Brand Usher / RCA • Release: 9.11.20

Photo Credits: Brand Usher / RCA