Versatile and talented, Usher has made a mark not only as a Grammy-winning artist but also as an actor, Broadway performer, and coach on The Voice. Yet, his most cherished role is that of a father.
As the upcoming Super Bowl 2024 halftime performer, Usher takes great pride in his four children. He shares two sons, Usher “Cinco” V and Naviyd Ely, with his ex-wife Tameka Foster, as well as daughter Sovereign Bo and son Sire Castrello with his current wife, Jenn Goicoechea.
Usher V, affectionately known as Cinco, embraces life out of the spotlight, away from his father’s fame
Reflecting on his own upbringing, Usher told Essence in 2008 that he wanted to give his children the support and security he felt he missed from his father. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that they feel valued and cared for.
His music has been influenced by his experiences as a father, particularly his 2020 song “I Cry,” which was inspired by a moment shared with his sons when they witnessed his tears. He recounted how they were surprised to see him cry and how he reassured them that it’s okay to express emotions.
The COVID-19 pandemic marked the births of both of Usher’s children with Goicoechea. During a September 2020 appearance on The Late Late Show with James Corden, he spoke about the shift in focus to family during such challenging times. He noted that the pandemic provided an opportunity for everyone to appreciate their loved ones more deeply.
Looking ahead to his performance at the Super Bowl, Usher noted that his kids often prefer not to attend his public events due to the attention that comes with his fame. He explained to commentator Shannon Sharpe on his podcast Club Shay Shay that his children sometimes want to keep a low profile.
Usher also shared insights about the challenges his children face growing up with privilege, contrasting their lives with his own. He conveyed the importance of understanding their unique upbringing and ensuring they appreciate the value of hard work.
Details about Usher’s children include Usher V, Naviyd, Sovereign, and Sire.
Usher “Cinco” Raymond V, 16
Prior to Usher V’s birth, Usher expressed his hopes for his first child during an interview with PEOPLE, prioritizing his son’s health and well-being above all else. He remarked on wanting Usher V to inherit the same energy he had as a child, with a touch of humor about hoping he wouldn’t be quite as mischievous.
In 2008, both Usher and Usher V graced the cover of Essence, where the artist shared his intentions to be a better role model than his father had been. He emphasized the need for fathers to actively engage in their children’s lives, from reading to being supportive of their growth.
When Usher V was just five years old, a near-drowning incident occurred, leaving Usher thankful that his son recovered. He expressed his gratitude for the support and prayers his family received during that difficult time.
More than a decade later, Usher reflected on that traumatic day, revealing how it shaped his empathy for others who have experienced similar losses, particularly for Foster, who tragically lost her son Kile in a boating accident in 2012.
At the age of six, Usher V was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, which complicated co-parenting with Foster due to the need for ongoing care. Usher discussed the adjustment to their lives after the diagnosis, emphasizing the critical role of communication in managing the situation.
In November 2022, Usher revealed that Usher V prefers to use his nickname, Cinco, to distinguish himself from his famous father. He noted that his eldest son sometimes shies away from the spotlight.
Naviyd Ely, 15
Usher welcomed his second son, Naviyd Ely, on December 10, 2008, shortly before his divorce from Foster was finalized in November of that year. Following the divorce, Usher was granted full custody of both of his boys.
Naviyd made his public debut at a young age, attending the premiere of Justin Bieber: Never Say Never with Usher and Usher V in 2011. At that time, Usher was mentoring Bieber, who was just beginning to rise to fame.
After filming Hands of Stone in 2016, Usher took a break from his career to dedicate time to his family. He fondly recounted a memorable balloon trip in Italy with Usher V and Naviyd, cherishing that special moment together.
In September 2016, both sons joined their father at his Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony, where they proudly posed with him on the red carpet.
During a November 2022 interview with Tamron Hall, Usher mentioned that unlike his older brother, Naviyd has a deep appreciation for entertainment and often critiques his father’s work. Usher humorously acknowledged Naviyd’s constructive feedback about his performances.
In June 2024, both Usher V and Naviyd supported their father during the BET Awards, where Usher spoke about the joys of fatherhood while accepting a lifetime achievement award.
Sovereign Bo, 4
Sovereign Bo was born about a month early on September 24, 2020, and is Usher’s first child with Jenn Goicoechea. Usher celebrated her birth by sharing his excitement and posting a touching message on Instagram alongside a photo of her tiny hand.
Weeks prior to her birth, Usher had announced their pregnancy, expressing his joy and anticipation on Good Morning America about the new addition to their family.
In a May 2021 interview with Extra, Usher explained the meaning behind his daughter’s name. He described the importance of “Sovereign” and affectionately referred to her as “my little ‘reign-bo.'”
Usher considers Sovereign his only daughter, noting that she has a strong will, as evidenced by her early arrival. He humorously remarked on her decision to come early, despite her intended zodiac sign.
In July 2021, while discussing his Las Vegas residency, Usher expressed his delight in being a “girl dad” and even mentioned how he had started wearing more traditionally feminine colors to embrace his role.
Sovereign’s infancy was brief, as her parents announced they were expecting again soon after her birth. In October 2022, Usher shared an adorable Halloween photo of Sovereign dressed as Mirabel from Disney’s Encanto.
Sire Castrello, 3
In October 2021, Usher introduced his youngest son, Sire Castrello Raymond, via Instagram, sharing a black-and-white photo and revealing details about his birth. He joyfully announced Sire’s arrival to the world and referred to him as the newest member of the family.
Having previously joked about his music choices during Sovereign’s birth, Usher made a more deliberate decision for Sire’s arrival, opting for “In Da Club” by 50 Cent to set the tone.
As Sire approached his first birthday, Usher shared heartwarming moments with his son through a series of photos, highlighting their close bond. He described Sire as someone special and noted their unique way of communicating with each other.
In September 2024, Usher celebrated Sire’s third birthday with a Cars-themed party, capturing the joy of the occasion with photos of decorations and a two-tier cake featuring Lightning McQueen.
