7 Secrets Behind Usher's 'Nice & Slow' That Prove It's The Ultimate R&B Anthem

Released in 1998, Usher’s "Nice & Slow" did more than just top the charts; it single-handedly defined a generation of R&B and cemented Usher Raymond IV as a global superstar. As of today, December 11, 2025, the song's influence remains palpable, a testament to its masterful production and timeless, sultry lyrics.

The track, the second single from his critically acclaimed My Way album, became Usher’s first-ever number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100, a monumental achievement that paved the way for future mega-hits like "U Remind Me," "U Got It Bad," and the record-breaking "Confessions" era. Its enduring legacy is so strong that recent events, from anniversary editions to honorary degrees, continue to bring this classic back into the spotlight.

Usher Raymond IV: The King of R&B's Comprehensive Profile

Usher Terry Raymond IV, widely known simply as Usher, is a definitive figure in contemporary R&B, often credited with shaping the genre in the late 1990s and early 2000s. His career spans music, acting, and philanthropy, establishing him as one of the most commercially successful and influential artists of his time.

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• Full Name: Usher Terry Raymond IV
• Born: October 14, 1978
• Birthplace: Dallas, Texas, U.S.
• Early Life: Raised primarily in Chattanooga, Tennessee, he moved to Atlanta, Georgia, at a young age to pursue his music career, a move that proved pivotal.
• Career Debut: Signed to LaFace Records at age 14, releasing his self-titled debut album, Usher (1994).
• Breakthrough Album: My Way (1997), which featured "Nice & Slow," launched him into superstardom.
• Key Albums: My Way (1997), 8701 (2001), Confessions (2004), Here I Stand (2008).
• Major Accolades: Eight-time Grammy Award winner, numerous American Music Awards and Soul Train Music Awards.
• Recent Honors: Received an honorary doctorate from Berklee College of Music in 2023.
• Vegas Residency: His long-running and highly successful Las Vegas residency further solidified his status as a premier live performer.

The Production & Lyrical Genius of "Nice & Slow"

"Nice & Slow" is a masterclass in '90s R&B production, a soundscape that perfectly complements the song's intimate and seductive narrative. It was the fusion of top-tier talent that propelled the track from an album cut to a career-defining moment.

The song was officially released on January 6, 1998, as the second single from the My Way album. It quickly demonstrated Usher's ability to transition from a teen idol to a mature R&B crooner, showcasing his smooth falsetto and undeniable charisma.

1. The Dream Team Behind the Music

The success of "Nice & Slow" can be largely attributed to the legendary production duo of Jermaine Dupri and Manuel Seal. Dupri, a prolific producer and CEO of So So Def Recordings, was instrumental in shaping the Atlanta music scene and Usher's early sound. Seal, known for his smooth, melodic arrangements, provided the perfect musical backdrop.

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The track was also a collaborative writing effort. Usher co-wrote the song alongside Dupri, Seal, and Brian Casey, a member of the influential R&B group Jagged Edge. This collaboration ensured the lyrics and melody were steeped in authentic, contemporary R&B sensibility.

2. The Controversial Lyrical Intention

Lyrically, "Nice & Slow" is a quintessential slow jam. The song details a late-night romantic encounter, with Usher promising to take his time and make the experience last until the morning. The song's central theme is intimacy and savoring the moment, a stark contrast to the faster-paced tracks often dominating the charts.

Interestingly, some fans have debated the exact meaning of certain lines over the years. Usher himself playfully addressed this curiosity in a viral post, suggesting that some fans might have misinterpreted a key lyric, a move that kept the 25-year-old song relevant in the age of social media.

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3. Usher's First Number-One Milestone

The commercial performance of "Nice & Slow" was historic for Usher. It became his first single to reach the number-one spot on the prestigious Billboard Hot 100 chart. This achievement was a crucial turning point, moving him from a burgeoning talent to a certified chart-topper and setting the stage for his subsequent domination of the R&B and Pop landscapes.

The Enduring Legacy: Anniversary, Homage, and Honorary Degrees

The true measure of a classic is its ability to remain relevant decades later, and "Nice & Slow" passes this test with flying colors. Recent events highlight its status as a foundational piece of R&B history.

4. The 25th Anniversary Revival (The My Way Edition)

The 25th anniversary of the *My Way* album, which occurred in 2022, sparked a major revival of the song. The celebration included the release of the My Way: 25th Anniversary Edition, an expanded package that delighted long-time fans.

This deluxe edition featured the original album tracks alongside reimagined versions. Crucially, it included the "Nice & Slow (Ryan James Carr Remake)", offering a modern interpretation of the classic while paying homage to the original's smooth, sensual vibe. The anniversary also saw Usher recreate the iconic shirtless album cover, proving his music—and his look—is truly timeless.

5. The Chris Brown Homage

The influence of "Nice & Slow" extends to the next generation of R&B artists. In a clear nod to his predecessor, artist Chris Brown unveiled a snippet of a song that explicitly sampled the Usher classic. This act of homage reinforces Usher's position as a major influence and highlights how the song's instrumental and vocal elements are still considered prime material for contemporary music production.

6. The Berklee Doctorate Lyric Flip

Perhaps the freshest and most unique update came when Usher received his honorary Doctor of Music degree from the prestigious Berklee College of Music in 2023.

During his commencement address, Usher celebrated the honor by humorously flipping the iconic lyrics of "Nice & Slow" to reflect his new academic status. He changed the famous line "It's seven o'clock, on the dot, I'm in my drop top" to a more education-focused declaration, a moment that went viral and connected the classic song to a major career milestone.

7. Cementing the R&B Legacy

Ultimately, "Nice & Slow" is more than a hit single; it is a cultural artifact that helped define the late '90s R&B sound. Its success demonstrated Usher's ability to create immersive, romantic music that resonated globally, cementing his legacy as one of the most iconic artists of his generation. The song, along with other tracks from the *My Way* album, achieved triple platinum status, a testament to its widespread and enduring popularity.

From the smooth, deliberate tempo to the seductive narrative, "Nice & Slow" remains a benchmark for slow jams, a track that continues to earn new fans while delighting those who remember its initial, monumental rise to the top of the charts.