While chillin’ at Usher’s crib (which he bought from L.A. Reid and is the same house in which he was introduced to Reid at age 16), Oprah dug in about the burning custody, divorce & cheating questions we all have. And a few she needed for her own thoughts apparently. Like whether he makes love to his own music.
He talked around most of the questions and eventually admitted some things. And seems to have his own version of the truth. Here are the highlights:
On the demise of Usher and Tameka’s relationship
Usher says there were a ton of people against their marriage from the start. But there were also a ton of people FOR their marriage, he claims. They tried counseling, charging their friends with helping them stay together, he publicly defended her on that now infamous “TRL” episode, etc. But none of it worked and mostly due to the pressures of being a Hollywood couple–neither were ready for everything that came with it.
On firing his mother, Jonetta, as his manager
Interestingly, Usher tried to sugarcoat the firing saying he understood why the public would see it as him firing his mother due to her not attending the wedding because of the timing, bu he claims that was not the case. He said he simply wanted her to move into the role as Grandmother instead. The two have had a rocky relationship since Tameka came into the picture and Jonetta being over-protective, but they are still working things out.
On whether Usher was faithful to ex-wife Tameka Raymond
After a long explanation, he finally said No. Usher said he confided in other women emotionally about his ups and downs, but while he and Tameka were separated, he indeed had intimate relationships with others. He said he was “lost” during this time.
On the rumors of him sexing Tameka’s bridesmaid
He admitted this was true–in so many words. He explained he and the bridesmaid were friends for a long time and she had been in his sons life since the beginning. He claims it occurred “after the marriage” (which his definition of this seems to be the separation).
On the awkward question of whether he has sex to his own music
“Some may say this may be rather narcissistic, but, yeah.” Usher also said he puts a playlist in a specific order that also includes Teddy Pendergrass. And, of course, he ends with “Climax.” Sigh.
On the judge’s ruling to award full custody of sons Naviyd & Usher V to Usher
Usher says he respects what the judge’s decision is. The reason he and Tameka needed to go to a custody trial in the first place is because they could not work out the terms on their own. So he believes the judge saw his dedication as a father and believed he would be better as the full time parent.
On adjusting his life due to primary custody decision
Usher says he has always made his sons his first priority since the day they were born. He’s just “Daddy” to them and even though he didn’t have his own father in his life growing up, he knew he had to be the best father possible. So now, he adjusts his touring and studio schedule to be home more and take the boys to school. As for the help he has: A nanny, his mother, his grandmother and his aunt.
