VIDEO: Usher Reveals His Song Choices for MACY'S 4th OF JULY SPECTACULAR

By: Jul. 02, 2013
Get Access To Every Broadway Story

Unlock access to every one of the hundreds of articles published daily on BroadwayWorld by logging in with one click.




Existing user? Just click login.




This 4th of July, the nation's largest patriotic pyrotechnic display will illuminate the night sky over New York City as the 37th annual Macy's 4th of July Fireworks rumble to life. A spectacle like no other, this year's show will feature a first-ever, one-of-a-kind collaboration with global superstar Usher, who has sold over 50 million records worldwide throughout his illustrious career and will join Macy's in igniting sparks over the Hudson River.

Below, Usher reveals his song choices for the exciting display and chats about what this historic event means to him.

About MACY'S 4TH OF JULY FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR:

For the first time in the history of the show, a superstar artist is collaborating with Macy's creative and pyrotechnic teams. Lending his artistic inspiration and talent, eight-time Grammy Award-winning artist Usher is curating the overall design of the show entitled "It Begins with A Spark." From the rousing musical selections to the spectacular fireworks in the sky, Usher is putting his visionary stamp on the nation's biggest Independence Day party.

Beginning with the score, Usher's musical tastes are evident and reflect a melting pot of influences that span several decades of music. From current SMASH hits by artists like Rihanna, Kelly Clarkson, Avicii and Swedish House Mafia to classic artists like Jimi Hendrix, Frank Sinatra and Sam Cooke, the explosive evening will feature a taste of musical styles ranging from pop and soul to country and electronic dance music. With a selection of Usher's top hits in the mix and Americana favorites such as "America the Beautiful," "God Bless America" and "The Star-Spangled Banner" rounding out the presentation, the Fireworks will have a spectacular back beat as they paint the night sky.

Usher's artistry also extends to the canvas in the sky. In collaboration with Macy's Fireworks designers Gary and Jim Souza, Usher is providing visual design cues, inspiration and direction for the pyrotechnics that are choreographed to the score. Featuring never-before-seen effects, shapes and colors, the partnership is yielding a dazzling spectacle that will spark a wave of awe in audiences from coast-to-coast.



Videos