Usher Raymond IV: A Culinary and Hosting Virtuoso
Usher Raymond IV, renowned for his musical talents, is now sharing another side of himself—his exceptional skills as a host. In a recent interview with Wallpaper, Usher delved into his philosophies on hosting and his exciting collaboration with Baccarat, a brand known for its crystal craftsmanship. For Usher, hosting isn’t just a duty; it’s an expression of his appreciation for guests and a reflection of his personality.
The Art of Hosting
“Hosting is an expression of how you feel about your guests and also who you are,” Usher insightfully remarked. He emphasized that the level of effort he puts into a gathering often depends on the audience. “I can put a mean cookout together with a red Solo cup, just as easily as I can with a crystal glass,” he explained. When aiming to impress, he puts considerable thought into creating a memorable experience. But his overall goal is simple: to ensure that his guests feel cherished and catered to.
Culinary Confidence
Despite being the father of four, Usher admits he’s not the star chef of the household. However, that doesn’t deter him from making an effort in the kitchen. “I only cook for my guests occasionally because I have an amazing group of people in my family—my wife and my mom—who really enjoy cooking,” he shared. Interestingly, he highlights the tradition of food preparation, especially emphasizing his daughter’s culinary talent in making banana pudding, a dish he learned from his grandmother.
Breakfast and Desserts: Usher’s Specialties
When it comes to his cooking repertoire, Usher openly acknowledges his comfort zones: breakfast and desserts. “If you’re lucky enough to wake up in my house, I make this thing called a ‘Tuscan egg toast,’” he said. His method involves baking an egg right in the center of a slice of bread, seasoned with herbs and spices to taste.
Additionally, he considers himself a “certified dessert chef.” His house specialties include banana pudding and pound cake, with these family recipes being passed down to his children. Usher finds joy in not only making these dishes but sharing the significance behind them, enhancing the dining experience with traditions that paint a picture of his family history.
The Soundtrack of Family Life
Music plays a pivotal role in Usher’s household as well. He incorporates his love for tunes into daily rituals, especially when it comes to waking up his kids. “I always play this song to wake the kids up, Louie Vega’s remix of Sylvester’s ‘Dance (Disco Heat),’” he said, adding humor to the fact that his children often complain about his choice. However, his musical taste doesn’t stop there. Usher also appreciates the classics, noting that he enjoys listening to artists like Stevie Wonder and Luther Vandross on vinyl—an experience he believes adds authenticity to family gatherings.
A Melting Pot of Guests
Hosting for Usher is about bringing diverse groups of people together. “I don’t have one name, but I love bringing intellectual people together with ‘common folks,’” he elaborated. For him, a mix of perspectives enriches conversations and creates an engaging atmosphere.
Preparing for Guests with Style
If you find yourself invited to one of Usher’s gatherings, don’t arrive empty-handed. He suggests bringing along a card, a bottle of wine, or even a six-pack. “I love game night. If you know about Spades, that game absolutely breaks families. It’s a really cool, competitive game,” he quipped, hinting at the playful spirit that underlies his entertaining style.
Family Moments
Recently, Usher shared heartfelt snapshots from the holidays, showcasing his family—his mom, Johnetta Patton, and his four children: Usher V (Cinco, 18), Navyid (17), Sovereign (5), and Sire (4). These glimpses into his family life underscore the love and care that flow through his hosting philosophy, creating an environment that feels as warm and inviting as his music.
Through his unique blend of culinary efforts, heartfelt music, and social gatherings, Usher Raymond IV not only sets the tone for a memorable evening but also demonstrates the true essence of hospitality—one that blends personal history, family traditions, and thoughtful interaction.