Usher: The next Michael Jackson? (Photo by MICHAEL VARCAS)

Since King of Pop Michael Jackson’s death last year, music fans have been on the lookout for the one who’ll be next in line. And the name that comes to mind? Usher.

During his short press conference at the Edsa Shangri-La Hotel on July 8, the R&B singer enthused that the comparison is “the ultimate compliment.”

“Being compared to someone whose had a career as great and as long as his, is the ultimate compliment. Michael Jackson is one of the greatest entertainers… I have to say the greatest entertainer to have ever lived. I have a collection of my own [music] and I hope I’ll have a career that will stay as long his did,” the 31-year old superstar told Bulletin Entertainment and other members of the press.

Although he has a lot of catching up to do, Usher has his own solid achievements such as being a Grammy award winner, a best-selling artist and a total entertainer.

Like Jackson's, Usher's songs are very personal. Some have even been interpreted as accurate narratives of his private life, such as of the high-profile break-ups and divorce. He aims for his music “to speak about life’s experiences, not just my own, but other people’s too.”

He has just been in Manila for a few hours at the time of the interview but Usher obviously already felt at home. Indeed, he was cool and relaxed throughout his meeting with the local press; even cracking jokes at times, and lying down on his long orange couch at one point. His first time in the country, the R&B superstar expressed interest in learning more about Filipino culture and to do some sight-seeing.

Asked if he has heard about Pinay international singer Charice, Usher gave a frank answer.

"Actually I haven’t heard about her, but I’m pretty sure, soon I will.”

However, Usher's eyes lit up when the conversation turned to Pinoy boxing champ Manny Pacquiao. Not only does Usher know about Pacman, but he bets he would win in his next fight. As with many people, Usher considers the Pacman-Mayweather Jr. match as the “fight of the century” should it push through.

Usher promised to give his Filipino fans a unique musical experience on his concert on July 9 at the Mall of Asia Concert Grounds.

“Every time I do a show, I create a live song on stage. That’s like a once-in-a-lifetime experience only for that audience. So hopefully I can create something incredible for the audience tomorrow,” he told GMA news program “24 Oras” on July 8.

A lot have been keeping their fingers crossed that his prodigy, Justin Bieber, will be next to set foot on Philippine shores. “Well maybe I’ll send a word to have him come and see you guys after we have a great performance tomorrow,” was Usher’s answer.

Ronald Singson of Fearless Productions, one of the producers of Usher’s one-night only concert, later said they are working on bringing the “Bieber Fever” in Manila. Indeed, there’s gonna be (more than) "one less lonely girl" in Manila should they succeed.

“Usher: Live in Manila” is also presented by Channel [V], Smart Buddy and Metrocard Investments. For tickets, call Ticketworld at 891-9999 or visit www.ticketworld.com.ph.