Hard II Love is the eighth studio album by Usher, released in September 2016 on RCA Records and produced by Bryan-Michael Cox, Zaytoven, Young Thug, and No I.D. The album marked a return to pure R&B after the electronic experimentation of Looking 4 Myself, drawing on neo-soul and trap influences to create a more emotionally raw and personal record. Written partly in the wake of his stepson's tragic accident and subsequent death, the album carries a weight of grief and reflection that gives songs like 'Stronger' and 'Missin U' particular resonance. Hard II Love received strong critical praise for its emotional honesty and mature songwriting. The album cemented Usher's reputation as an artist willing to channel genuine personal pain into his music.
Track Listing & Credits
| # | Title | Lyricist(s) | Composer(s) | Producer(s) | Performers |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Crash | Usher, Bryan-Michael Cox | Bryan-Michael Cox | Bryan-Michael Cox |
|
| 2 | No Limit | Zaytoven, Young Thug, Usher | Zaytoven | Zaytoven |
|
| 3 | Rivals | Usher, No I.D. | No I.D. | No I.D. |
|
| 4 | Stronger | Usher, Bryan-Michael Cox | Bryan-Michael Cox | Bryan-Michael Cox |
|
| 5 | Slow Dancer | Usher, Bryan-Michael Cox | Bryan-Michael Cox | Bryan-Michael Cox |
|
| 6 | Make U a Believer | Usher, Bryan-Michael Cox | Bryan-Michael Cox | Bryan-Michael Cox |
|
| 7 | Champions | Usher, No I.D. | No I.D. | No I.D. |
|
| 8 | Missin U | Usher, Bryan-Michael Cox | Bryan-Michael Cox | Bryan-Michael Cox |
|
| 9 | Don't Vary | Zaytoven, Usher | Zaytoven | Zaytoven |
|
| 10 | Hard II Love | Usher, Bryan-Michael Cox | Bryan-Michael Cox | Bryan-Michael Cox |
|
Data note: Track credits compiled from Wikipedia and Discogs; should be verified against original liner notes.