Usher

 Usher Raymond IV was born to Jonetta Patton (nee O’Neal), and Usher Ray III in Dallas, Texas. At six years of age, he started singing and joined the local church choir. His mom was choir director. Jonetta, a single mom was the one who raised Usher as well as James, his brother. James, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, before moving the family to Atlanta, Georgia, when Usher was twelve years old. Usher says that his mom is as his"best friend. Usher's mother continues to manage his career following her resignation from her full-time occupation as an office worker some years ago. After moving to Atlanta, Usher began participating in shows for local talents. Bryant Reid, his brother and renowned R&B producer, was present to see Usher in 1992. He was also co-president of LaFace Records with 'Kenneth Babyface' Edmonds. Bryant arranged for Usher to audition for his brother. The renowned producer was immediately taken with the young singer's precocious talent--legend is that Reid gave Usher a contract right away. Usher made his debut record and dropped it on LaFace in 1994. The record, which was co-executive-produced by Reid and Sean 'P. The minor hit "Think of You" was produced by Diddy Combs. Usher was just 14 when he began working on the record, and his puberty proved somewhat of an impediment to the process. As a result, the producers brought in a variety of vocal coaches in order to help him complete the record. Their efforts weren't in vain, as the album showcased Usher's youthful enthusiasm and his natural singing skills as well as the attention of a lot of listeners. After graduating from high school