Usher Surprises at SXSW, Sends 'Positive Energy' to Lil Wayne
Usher made waves at South by Southwest with a surprise set at the Fader Fort in Austin, Texas. Amidst rumors that he would close out Friday’s festivities, the R&B superstar was greeted with cheers when he appeared during Cincinnati rock band The Afghan Whigs’ set. He performed a stripped-down medley of hits including his Grammy-winning single “Climax” and took time out to send his best wishes to Lil Wayne.
“One of my fellow artists and good friend, Lil Wayne, is going through a real hard time right now, ya’ll,” said Ursh. “I just want to send a lot of positive attitude about his state and a lot of positive energy out there right now. Can you guys make some noise for Lil Wayne one time?”
He then lightened the mood with an acoustic performance of “OMG” and beatboxed his way through “Bad Girl.”
“You have officially turned me into a beatbox artist,” he joked to the crowd. “This isn’t really my shit, you know. South by Southwest brings out the best in me.”
He closed with an cappella version of “U Got It Bad” as the audience sang along.
“I love you so much, South by Southwest,” said Usher before making his exit.