Usher is proving that age is just a number, and he’s got a fun secret to staying youthful: roller skating. The 46-year-old R&B icon, known for his high-energy performances and ageless vibe, has just unveiled his latest venture in Las Vegas—Flipper’s World Roller Boogie Palace, a one-of-a-kind roller skating rink residency at The Venetian Hotel.
The grand opening, held on November 16, marks a special moment for Usher, who sees this project as a victory lap. “It really all started with my residency, and now with this tour, I’m in the flow, having a good time,” he shares. And he’s not just talking about the music. Usher is all about the movement, the rhythm, and the health benefits that come with his beloved pastime.
Flipper’s Roller Boogie Palace isn’t just any roller rink—it’s a celebration of culture, fun, and of course, skating. Situated at Tao Beach within The Venetian, the rink will be a hotspot for both locals and tourists, offering a space where everyone, from seasoned skaters to absolute beginners, can join in the fun.
“I’ve always wanted to bring something to Vegas that reflects who I am, and skating has been such a big part of my life,” Usher says, his enthusiasm clear as he looks around at the rink he helped create. The residency, which comes after Usher’s multiple successful Las Vegas shows and his iconic Super Bowl Halftime performance, reflects his ability to blend nostalgia with new experiences.
“I’ve had the opportunity to perform all over the world—from the Super Bowl to Paris—so it just feels like a natural next step to bring the culture of skating here,” he adds.
For Usher, the grand opening is not only a celebration of his love for skating but also a way to give back to the community. Skating, to him, is more than just a hobby; it’s an act of self-care.
What keeps Usher looking young, staying fit, and full of energy? “Skating has always kept me young,” he reveals with a grin. “It’s a necessity for youth nowadays. Everyone spends so much time scrolling on their phones, but you gotta get up and roll.” Usher has been skating since he was a kid, and for him, it’s more than just exercise—it’s a way to express himself and feel free.
“It’s a form of self-care,” he continues. “The freedom, the rhythm—it’s like a language. When you get deeper into the culture of skating, it becomes something more than just a fun pastime. It becomes a way to communicate through movement.”
This connection to skating runs deep for Usher. It’s not just about maintaining a youthful appearance; it’s about preserving a piece of his childhood and embracing the joy that comes from it. He encourages everyone, regardless of age or skill level, to join in. “No judgment here,” he assures. “You fall, you get back up. The whole family can come out and have a good time.”
But Usher isn’t stopping there. He’s hoping to bring in some of his famous friends to share the rink with him. “It would be crazy to see Dre, Snoop, and Pharrell here,” he says with a laugh. “In the early days, a lot of hip hop artists could only find space to perform in roller rinks. NWA, for example, they came up through skaters.”
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