Usher steps into ‘Chicago’ role

Usher, the silky voiced R&B; superstar, will soon be crooning a Broadway melody.

The multi-platinum recording artist and five-time Grammy winner will take over the role of conniving lawyer Billy Flynn in the long-running musical revival “Chicago,” making his Broadway debut, producers Barry and Fran Weissler announced Friday.

“I have always admired Broadway actors for their showmanship, dedication and focus that goes into performing live on stage every night,” the 27-year-old Usher said in a statement. “Being on Broadway allows you to connect to audiences in a whole new way that’s different from music and movies.”

Usher’s last album, “Confessions,” sold more than 8 million copies in the United States and made its debut at No. 1 on Billboard’s 200 Albums chart. Among his hit songs are “Confessions,” “Burn,” “You Make Me Wanna” and “Yeah!”

Usher opens Aug. 22 in “Chicago” and will appear through Oct. 1.