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Jam goes into describing how Usher naturally evolved over the years prior to 8701.
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He contributed his skills on “Intro-Lude 8701” and “Without U (Interlude),” with support from Jam & Lewis.Ī post-teen Usher, 23 at the time, had told JET Magazine that 8701 reflected his “evolution as an artist.” Looking back 20 years later, Jam agrees, citing it was “a moment of growth.” Usher showing his growth as an artist wasn’t anything new, though.
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Similar to his sophomore album, My Way, Usher was involved with the songwriting process of 8701 - and production, too. In addition to working with Jam & Lewis on his third LP, he teamed up with other producers such as Babyface, Bryan-Michael Cox, Jermaine Dupri, Mike City, Soulshock & Karlin, The Neptunes and Soulshock & Karlin.
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