Sparks fly July 4 with Macy’s and Usher
NEW YORK — Macy’s is getting help from singer, songwriter and dancer Usher in curating the concept, music and design of the 37th annual Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks. The retailer’s fireworks spectacular is the nation’ largest patriotic pyrotechnic display.
“This year Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks will be transformed into a giant party in the sky captivating audiences along the Hudson River and on television screens across the country,” said Amy Kule, executive producer of Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks. “Since 1976, Macy’s Fireworks have grown in scale and artistry. With this first-ever collaboration with Usher, we are taking the show to the next level of entertainment spectacle, combining the very best of Macy’s Fireworks with Usher’s unparalleled artistic vision.”
Usher has sold more than 50 million records worldwide throughout his career.
“I’m really excited to add my flavor to the Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks, the largest show in America. As an artist, it’s important that I expand creatively into new areas. Working on the score and fireworks design has been a great experience that’s allowed me to share my voice in a new way,” said Usher. “The 4th of July is a collective celebration of freedom and I hope that through the music and visuals, I’ve helped express the energy and passion of our nation. I can’t wait for the countdown; we’re getting ready to surprise the audience with the ultimate Independence Day party.”
This is the first time in the history of the show that a musical artist and performer collaborates with Macy’s creative and pyrotechnic teams. Organizers will look to the eight-time Grammy Award-winning artist to lend his artistic inspiration and talent to the show’s overall design. This year’s show is entitled “It Begins with A Spark.”
Usher’s musical score includes songs from Rihanna, Kelly Clarkson, Avicii, Swedish House Mafia, Jimi Hendrix, Frank Sinatra and Sam Cooke, as well as “America the Beautiful,” “God Bless America” and “The Star-Spangled Banner.”
The 37th annual Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks will fire more than 40,000 pyrotechnic shells during a 26-minute synchronized display. Sousa Fireworks is once again at the helm of the pyrotechnics which will be positioned on the Hudson River approximately between 24th and 40th Streets. An average of 1,800 shells will be launched per minute.
Sponsors of Macy’s fireworks spectacle include KitchenAid, Kool-Aid and Planters, and is presented in partnership with the City of New York. Radio stations 1010 WINS-AM will play the musical score to which the show is choreographed. Spectators from coast-to-coast will be able to tune in to NBC’s national broadcast of “Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular” beginning at 9 p.m. ET/PT, 8 p.m. CT/MT.