Its been a good 11 years since Usher’s debut album “My Way” crept into my cd player long before MP3 players had existed and the iTUNES music store was invented for easy downloads. When I first copped his album, Usher (18 years of age back than) seemed more mature within his musical content compared to others at the time. The older he got, the more responsible his music and attitude became relevant. The guys a good role model who was rarely seen in tabloid related stories with any type of negative behavior. Fast forward to 2008 and you’ve got an Usher Raymond that’s so mature… he’s teaching guys how to be men… with the release of Here I stand… I think that’s all the ladies can ask for from their guys. (Think of it as Jay-Z’s “Blueprint” album lol)

There’s nothing real nasty about Usher’s new album. That being said, what I really meant was that it isn’t as explicit as some of todays R&B’s sex pushers like T-Pain and Akon who are so blunt about their explicit topics they shed out too much info. You can sit back, chill and straight vibe to Ushers form of R&B. “Love in this club” (lead single) took some getting used to but with the help of Young Jeezy, with beats by Polow da Don, the tracks bump out some dirty south flavor Usher manages to spiral out. “What’s your name” is vintage Will.I.am material… I swear his beats only get more diverse in creativity and provides Usher with some serious melodies in sound. Jay-Z drops a line on “Best thing” featuring production from a so-so Jermaine Dupri. “This ain’t sex” is a upbeat club joint reminiscent of Micheal Jackson’s “Rock with you”… the anthem is all hype thanks to Usher. While I’m not big on love jams… I couldn’t help bump out “before I met you” and “appetite,” two honest to straight to the point tracks about confessions and keeping his lust under control.

“Here I stand” is solid material that keeps the audience listening. It’s a testament to making good music and shows off how long Usher’s been in the game. There’s no doubt he’ll be back with an even stronger and mature album in the future, but for now- hes making the right decisions in pumping out quality music for you and yours.