Ever dreamed of working behind the scenes in the music industry? Superstar Usher is making that dream a reality for young adults! He’s teaming up with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Detroit and his own non-profit, Usher’s New Look, to launch an incredible internship program called the ‘Entertainment Industry Club: Live Touring Edition’.
Opening Doors in Live Entertainment
This isn’t just any internship; it’s a unique opportunity designed to break down barriers in the live touring world. Shawn H. Wilson, President & CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Detroit, highlighted that while the live touring industry is massive, access to these careers is often limited. This program aims to change that by placing young professionals directly onto one of the most exciting tours.
The initiative is launching just in time for Usher’s highly anticipated 2026 North American R&B Tour with Chris Brown. It’s a fantastic way to provide hands-on experience in crucial touring departments, from production and operations to wardrobe and multimedia, roles that are often out of reach for many young people, especially those from underserved communities.
What the Internship Entails
Ten interns, aged 18 and older, will be selected from Detroit and Atlanta. Before hitting the road, they’ll receive essential pre-tour training covering safety, technical skills, and professional development. Once on tour, they’ll be actively involved in making the live shows happen.
But the program doesn’t stop there! For youth across the country involved with Boys & Girls Clubs, there will be ‘Spark Sessions: Making of the Tour.’ These sessions will offer an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at how a major concert tour is put together, demystifying the process for a wider audience.
Usher’s Vision for Access
Usher himself emphasized the core belief behind this initiative: ‘Talent is everywhere, but access is not.’ He sees this program as a vital step in opening doors and empowering young professionals to learn, grow, and build lasting careers within the entertainment trades. It’s all about providing genuine opportunities.
Since 1999, Usher’s New Look has been dedicated to fostering leadership, education, and career development in young people. This tour internship extends that mission, with interns also participating in community activations and mentorship as the tour progresses.
This collaboration is more than just a tour; it’s a pathway to a sustainable career and a brighter future for aspiring young professionals in the entertainment industry. It’s a powerful example of how established artists can make a real difference.
What do you think about Usher’s initiative? Share your thoughts on how artists can better support emerging talent in the comments below!
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