(Photo by Josh Brasted/Getty Images for ESSENCE)
Usher is prioritizing self-care right now, and fans in Atlanta are in shambles over what it means for them! Hours before taking the stage at State Farm Arena, the singer postponed his opening tour stop.
Editor’s Note: This story was originally published on August 14. Keep reading for the latest update on Usher’s health as of August 15 and why he had to cancel additional shows.
Usher released a new statement on August 15 revealing that he suffered a neck injury in rehearsal earlier this week.
In his August 14 statement, he canceled his tour’s opening show, which was scheduled for that same night. At the time, he revealed he needed time to rest and heal. However, he didn’t specify whether he was injured until his August 15 statement.
“My hope was that with physical therapy and medical treatment, I would be able to overcome the injury and be ready for opening night. Unfortunately, the injury has not yet healed, and my doctors have instructed me not to perform any shows this week.”
Usher added that his doctors believe he’ll be ready to hit the stage again on August 20 in Washington, D.C. His three Atlanta tour stops were rescheduled from August 14, 16, and 17 to December 9, 10, and 12.
As mentioned, Usher issued a written statement about the postponed Atlanta show. He began by acknowledging the “blood, sweat, and tears” he’s put in throughout his lengthy career to put on “the best performance” and create memorable fan experiences.
The singer added that he has every “intention” to do the same on his ‘Past, Present and Future Tour.’ But in order to meet that level, Usher says he needs “rest,” hence the canceled Atlanta show.
“…I have to postpone tonight’s show and reschedule it for a later date to give my body a second to rest and heal,” he wrote. “You’re still going to get a bit of the past, some of the present, and a unique look into the future on the rescheduled date, but you’ll also be getting 100% of me.”
Usher acknowledged that the “last thing” he wants is to “disappoint” his fans, particularly tonight’s Atlanta crowd.
“However, I wouldn’t be the entertainer that I am if I can’t physically give you my best,” he added.
After it became clear that Usher wouldn’t be pulling up to State Farm Arena tonight, fans spilled their disappointment and well wishes for the singer on social media.
On Instagram, his statement collected nearly 60,000 likes and over 2,700 divided comments within an hour.
“Good looking out for you! Can’t be the best if you’re not feeling the best,” @the_80s_garage wrote.
@amberjiselle wrote, “Flight just landed in Atlanta. So disappointed. But health comes first.”
But, @usherpassion popped off, adding, “I drove hrs to see you tonight, all the rehearsal you been posting and what not and now today you postponed the opening day?! This is crazy!!!! You had since February to get it together. I’m upset and very at that. You knew this since last night, I bet you do the concert on Friday and Saturday tho.”
@cokebottlejazzy said, “I’m crushed. I called out for you, I think I deserve a backstage pass!”
@and5678linedance wrote, “Awww man…I was bringing mama…we were on the road! She was hooked after seeing the Super Bowl show! Disappointed, but definitely hope you feel better soon.”
“Take your rest and be the best version of YOU before you entertain us all,” @joannauriv19 said.
Under The Shade Room’s repost of the statement, fans appeared to be a bit more supportive.
@jojo.emale wrote on IG, “He went from a residency, to the Super Bowl, to a worldwide tour. Take it easy!”
@jayt.music supported Usher’s decision, writing, “Health comes first. Definitely understand people being disappointed but our legends are human and GOD forbid something happens we would wish they took time to rest.”
So did @dominiquechinn, who wrote, “Gotta stay healthy to perform longevity. Get some rest.”
@tazzxp joked, “Well, can we come to your house and you do a lil backyard show?”
Meanwhile, on X, the post pulled in over 163,000 views and more than 600 reposts within an hour. Swipe below to see reactions from that platform.
