It has been more than a few years since Usher last headlined a concert in our fair city, so it shouldn't be surprising that a full house was on hand for his Wednesday night gig at the Marcus Amphitheater.

Fans of all ages screamed and anxiously waited for Usher to perform at least one of their favorite songs. But it seemed clear that the crowd also appreciated his new material just as much as the classics.

Anyone who did not know the lyrics to his songs may have felt like an outsider at this concert.

Usher has been entertaining since the tender age of 11, so his ownership of the stage is organic and compliments his effortless vocal ability. He commands attention with his provocative dance moves and his apparently bottomless well of energy.

His performance Wednesday showed influences from musical legends like James Brown and Michael Jackson, but Usher has perfected his craft and created something so unique that his performance technique is in a league of its own. Usher is finally a musical legend in his own right.

With their eyes closed and hands in the air, his fans were glad to make the trip down memory lane as Usher performed selections from his previous discs.

Touring in support of his sixth studio album, "Raymond v. Raymond," which was released in March and became his third consecutive album to debut at No. 1 on the Billboard Top 200 albums chart.

Not yet reaching the success of his 2004 release, "Confessions," which sold over 20 million copies worldwide, "Raymond vs. Raymond" has nevertheless become a fan favorite.

With hit singles such as "Daddy's Home" and "Oh My Gosh" featuring Will.I.Am, and the controversial single "Papers," this high-energy album offers a look into the mind and heart of Usher Raymond.

The best part of the show was an energetic encore of "Oh My Gosh," which left fans chanting the chorus long after the show was over. This lasting euphoric effect only comes from special musical talents, and Usher Raymond is at the top of his game.