Usher paid tribute to his late drummer, Aaron Spears, during his Super Bowl VIII Halftime show by leaving an empty golden drumkit onstage.
The R’n’B superstar wowed with his star-studded set during the halfway point of the major NFL tournament – which saw the Kansas City Chiefs beat the San Francisco 49ers 25-22 – at Las Vegas’ Allegiant Stadium on Sunday (11.02.24).
And if you take a closer look at his band, as well as sticksman Devon ‘Stixx’ Taylor’s kit, there was one unused set of drums in memory of Aaron, who died, aged 47, in October 2023, and was also drummer for the likes of Ariana Grande, Britney Spears, Miley Cyrus and Justin Bieber.
He received a Grammy nomination for Usher’s 2004 album ‘Confessions’.
In a eulogy at his Celebration of Life, Usher hailed Aaron his “hero”.
The Grammy-nominated musician’s widow, Jessica – the mother of his son August – shared the sad news of his passing in October.
In a moving tribute, she wrote: “Aaron was not only an incredibly accomplished drummer, admired by many for his unparalleled talent and passion for music, but he was also a devoted father to our precious son, August.”
She continued: “His love, guidance, and warmth were the pillars of our family, and his absence leaves a void that words cannot describe.
“We are blessed to have him in our lives, his legacy will live on through the beautiful rhythms he created and the love he shared with us.
“We appreciate all the thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Please remember Aaron for the incredible person he was and the amazing music he brought into our world. At this time we ask for privacy as we work our way through this. With Love Jessica and August.”
Meanwhile, Usher was also joined onstage by the likes of Alicia Keys, Lil Jon, Ludacris, H.E.R. and will.i.am at the Super Bowl.