Usher performs with Craig David, and fans at London’s O2 Arena completely lost it.
The surprise collab went down on Saturday night, April 5, during Usher’s fourth show of his massive ‘Past Present Future’ UK run. Midway through his set, the R&B legend brought out none other than British garage icon Craig David to perform two of his biggest hits, Fill Me In and 7 Days – and the energy in the arena instantly shifted to euphoric nostalgia.
This moment wasn’t just special for the fans, but for Craig David himself. He took to Instagram right after the show and called it a “real full-circle moment,” revealing just how much Usher influenced his career. “Feeling truly blessed to share the stage with the legend @usher,” Craig wrote. “Growing up, I had I Think of You and U Make Me Wanna on repeat. He’s always been an artist I deeply respect and one of the greatest to ever do it.” You could literally feel the mutual love and respect radiating from that stage.
The performance was more than just a random appearance – it was the result of a connection that started over two decades ago. Craig’s talked before about a little-known freestyle session they did together at French radio station Skyrock way back in the early 2000s. At the time, Craig was blowing up with Fill Me In and 7 Days, and Usher was prepping the iconic 8701. That one spontaneous jam led fans to beg for an official collab, and now, years later, it finally happened – live, in front of thousands.
Usher’s 10-show takeover of London’s O2 Arena has been nothing short of legendary. From the minute he hit the stage, he’s been treating fans to a journey through his iconic catalog, mixing old-school hits with newer vibes. But bringing Craig David onstage? That elevated everything. Two legends from opposite sides of the Atlantic, both with careers spanning over 20 years, united by the same love for music and performing. It doesn’t get more iconic than that.
Craig David, who just wrapped up his own UK tour this February, has been reflecting a lot on his journey lately. In a chat with BANG Showbiz, he opened up about the emotional weight his songs carry for fans. “People have got married to my songs, they’ve gone on holiday where they met their partner, and they remember where they were and who they were with,” he said. “And I think, ‘Man, who would’ve thought that would’ve been a part of me.’” It’s wild to think how music from both Craig and Usher has shaped major life moments for so many people.
And it’s not just nostalgia driving this resurgence. Craig’s last album dropped in 2022, and his fanbase continues to grow as a new generation taps into the early-2000s sound that’s making a serious comeback. Pair that with Usher’s current renaissance – especially after his unforgettable Super Bowl Halftime performance – and you’ve got two artists proving that great music really doesn’t age.
Usher performs with Craig David might just be the crossover moment no one saw coming but absolutely needed. Whether you were at the O2 or watching the clips online, it was one of those live music memories you won’t forget. The chemistry was off the charts, the vocals were on point, and the crowd was fully locked in from the first note.
With Usher’s ‘Past Present Future’ tour continuing to kill it across the UK and Craig David still glowing from the magic of this collab, fans are hoping this isn’t the last time we see them together. A studio version of Fill Me In or 7 Days with Usher on the remix? Yes please.
Were you at the show or catching the highlights online? Either way, you can’t deny Usher performing with Craig David was a total vibe. Let us know your favorite moment from the night or what throwback collab you want to see next.
Mia Brooks dives deep into the beats and rhythms of the music industry, covering everything from chart-topping albums to underground artists. With a passion for discovering new talent and exploring the stories behind the songs, Mia keeps readers updated on all things music.
