Usher tells 15-year-old Son Naviyd to “be great” as he pursues a singing career of his own

“I offer the best to you, and I went through hell to be able to make certain that you could have an incredible start,” Usher said in his address.

Usher honored a very special person in his life by taking a moment in the spotlight.

The “Yeah!” hitmaker won the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) Voice of the Culture Award on Thursday, June 27, at the London West Hollywood at the ASCAP Rhythm & Soul Celebration.

Usher, 45, made a special mention of his 15-year-old son Naviyd Raymond—who aspires to be a singer—during his acceptance speech.

Usher expressed his happiness that Naviyd and Usher “Cinco” Raymond, another of his kids, were present when he accepted the esteemed prize and expressed his desire “to be encouraged by the village of people who make this industry what it is, as well as incredible songwriters, producers, and creators.”

He mentioned how one of his boys was present and how he wants him to be prepared for greatness but also to remember the “humble beginnings that we’ve had.” One of his sons is “really adamant about being an artist,” he said.

“When we play in an industry where many times genres that have fed many other genres… it’s a backseat,” Usher said.

“So if anything, I’m encouraging him to understand that the entitlement of being able to start on that line, to start his journey is one that may potentially come with judgment because there’s some comparison, but you know what?”

Naviyd was then addressed by the eight-time Grammy winner, who urged him to “be great.”

“I want you to be great, so I offer the best to you, and I went through hell to be able to make certain that you could have an incredible start,” Usher stated. “Son, I just want you to be wonderful because I love you so much. I wish for you to resemble them. I desire for you to resemble us.

Additionally, Usher made care to acknowledge his son Usher. He remarked of the 16-year-old, “And obviously, it’s very difficult for the guy who was named after me, Usher.” But, Cinco, know that I also adore you. That you’re here makes me very happy.”

“You both, you and Naviyd, allow me to do what it is that I love and no matter how much of a commitment I have to you you allow me to stay committed to the thing that I found when I was your age.”

Usher is expected to win other significant honors this year in addition to the Voice of the Culture award. On Sunday, June 30, 2024 BET Awards, the 2024 Super Bowl Halftime star is expected to win the Lifetime Achievement Award.

The Confessions hitmaker is also a nominee for the forthcoming ceremony’s best male R&B/pop artist, best collaboration and video, and album of the year awards.