Usher Performs Stellar Tribute to Nick Ashford + Jerry Leiber at Grammy Nominations Concert

Usher graced the stage Wednesday night (Nov. 30) at the Grammy Nominations Concert to perform a heartfelt tribute to the late songwriters Nick Ashford and Jerry Leiber. These two gifted tunesmiths have written and recorded some of pop music's most memorable songs.

The solemn performance began with Nick Ashford's widow Valerie Simpson playing on the piano as she and Usher sang the opening verse of 'You're All I Need to Get By,' a song they penned for Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell. Throughout their duet you can see Simpson get teary-eyed as she sings the inspiring lyrics, and understandably so.

Usher then segued into 'Stand by Me,' a tune sung by Ben E. King that was written by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller. The audience obliged the R&B superstar in singing the careful words of the 1961 ballad. It was a tender moment to witness at the show.

Overall, Usher's rendition of two American standards was, arguably, the standout segment of the night. The performance was so good that we hope it gets a do-over at the upcoming Grammy Awards telecast in February. As far as we are concerned, you can never get enough of the classics. Props to Usher, Simpson and Stoller for an outstanding performance.

Watch Usher's Tribute to Nick Ashford and Jerry Leiber