Usher Encourages Son Naviyd to 'Be Great' as 15-Year-Old Hopes to Start His Own Singing Career

Usher used his moment in the spotlight to pay tribute to someone very close to him.

During the ASCAP Rhythm & Soul Celebration on Thursday, June 27, in London West Hollywood, “Yeah!” hitmaker took home the Voice of Culture Award from the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP).

During his acceptance speech, Usher (45) gave a special shout out to his 15-year-old son Naviyd Raymond, who wants to be a singer himself.

Usher said he was thrilled that Naviyd and another of his sons, Usher “Cinco” Raymond, were able to see him accept the prestigious award, and “that they were also encouraged by the village of people who make this industry what it is as incredible songwriters, producers and creators.”

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Usher in 2024.

Michael Buckner/Variety via Getty

Usher will receive a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2024 BET Awards

He noted that one of his sons in attendance is “really adamant about being an artist,” and that while he wants his son to be ready for greatness, he also wants him to reflect on the “humble beginnings we had.”

“When we’re playing in an industry where a lot of times genres that have fed a lot of other genres… it’s second place,” Usher continued.

“So, if anything, I encourage him to understand that the right to be able to start on that line, to start his journey, is what can potentially come with a conviction because there’s some comparison, but you know what?”

The eight-time Grammy winner then addressed Navid, encouraging him to “be great.”

Naviyd Raymond, Usher and Usher “Cinco” Raymond V 2024.

Lester Cohen/Getty

Usher says his older sons feel differently about his fame, talks about ‘dedication’ to all four of his children

“I want you to be great, so I’m offering you the best, and I’ve been through hell to make sure you can have an amazing start,” Usher said. “I love you, son, and I just want you to be great. I want you to be like them. I want you to be like us.”

Usher also made sure to say hello to his son Usher. “And obviously it’s very difficult for the guy named after me, Usher,” he said, referring to the 16-year-old. “But Cinco, I love you too, man. I’m so happy you’re here.”

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“Both you and Naviyd, let me do what I love and no matter how devoted I am to you, let me stay committed to the thing I found when I was your age.”

Usher and Naviyd Ely Raymond 2017.

Owen Hoffmann/Patrick McMullan via Getty

The Voice of Culture award is not the only major award that Usher will receive this year. The 2024 Super Bowl halftime host is scheduled to take home a lifetime achievement award at the 2024 BET Awards on Sunday, June 30.

The Confessions hitmaker is also nominated for Album of the Year, Best Collaboration and Video, and Best Male R&B/Pop Artist at the upcoming ceremony.

Categories: Trends
Source: HIS Education