Exclusive Interview with George Usher in February 2026
George Usher, a veteran New York singer and songwriter, has recently announced the release of his new album, Stevensonville, after a 30-year hiatus. This album comprises twelve original songs, each telling the tale of a different character in the fictional town that the album is named after. Accompanied by colorful illustrations and lyrics in a 28-page booklet, this limited edition 12” LP vinyl pressing of 200 will be available on March 20. The unique concept of Stevensonville invites listeners to delve deeper into the stories behind each song and character through repeated listening and observation of the accompanying artwork.
Usher’s musical journey began when he saw the Beatles perform on Ed Sullivan and immediately knew that he wanted to pursue a career in music. Since then, his musical taste has been influenced by the innocent charm of the Beatles’ debut album, “Introducing the Beatles,” which continues to inspire his own work with its fresh spontaneity and magic. Usher strives to infuse his recordings with the same sense of raw energy and authenticity that captivated him in his early musical experiences.
One of Usher’s longtime aspirations is to collaborate with T-Bone Burnett, whose album “Truth Decay” left a lasting impression on him in the 1980s. Burnett’s ability to bridge diverse musical styles and lyrical perspectives while maintaining a cohesive sound deeply intrigues Usher, and he admires the innovative approach Burnett took in crafting a culturally rich album within the confines of a roots label.
Outside of the studio and away from touring, Usher enjoys unwinding by immersing himself in literature, often reading multiple books simultaneously to keep his mind engaged and enriched. His approach to songwriting is often described as melodic and lyrically personal, requiring listeners to spend time with his music to fully appreciate its depth and meaning. Usher remains focused on creating music that resonates with his unique perspective and musical sensibilities, resisting labels that reduce his work to mere nostalgia or a throwback sound.
Reflecting on his career, Usher cherishes the moments when his band reaches a new musical height unexpectedly, creating an electrifying synergy that propels the music to greater heights. He envisions a career as a playwright if he were to transition away from music, drawn to the idea of witnessing actors breathe life into his words on stage.
While reminiscing about his past experiences, Usher muses on a missed opportunity in the mid-80s when a band he was part of sabotaged a potential management deal by involving themselves in a scandalous affair. Despite the fallout, Usher views this incident as a learning experience and a testament to the unpredictable nature of the music industry.
Looking back, Usher expresses a desire to witness the recording sessions for the Beatles’ White Album, fascinated by the creative process and collaborative dynamics that shaped this iconic record. Although recording sessions may seem arduous and meticulous in the moment, the lasting impact of these moments on music history underscores their enduring significance.