(Photo: via Ralph Lauren Fragrances)

During New York Fashion Week, Usher Raymond IV paused his busy schedule for an intimate fireside chat in Manhattan’s 34th Street to discuss his new Ralph Lauren fragrance partnership.

At Macy’s Herald Square, Usher debuted the new Ralph’s Club New York fragrance with Angie Martinez. “I’m really into fragrances,” Usher shared. Reflecting on the collaboration’s creative process and describing the unique partnership, he said his initial reaction was, “You know what?! I’d be happy to carry that on.”

(Photo: Latease Lashley/Brother Magazine)

Discussing the fragrance’s “bold and sensual” amber tone–with bursts of black currant, warm vanilla, and notes of smooth sandalwood–along with the bottle’s “sleek” metallic chrome and black-trimmed design (etched with curved art-deco lines and an embossed “R” monogram), the Grammy-winning singer and songwriter also revealed that he’s a new brand ambassador for Ralph Lauren; wearing a head-to-toe RL look that encompassed a custom black-and-white chalk-striped shirt and pants, paired with a black leather belt and military-style boots.

(Photo: Latease Lashley/Brother Magazine)

Talking passionately about the new collaboration, Usher told the invite-only media audience: “This is the first time Ralph Lauren has ever worked with this level of ingredients, which I thought was bold. We wanted to create something that fits every part of your lifestyle. Not just when you want to feel sophisticated.”

Further noting the importance of self-care and smelling good, Usher added: “Certain occasions call for a certain level of confidence, and you want people to remember something good about you.”  

(Photo: via Ralph Lauren Fragrances)

Partly inspired by ‘the city that never sleeps,’ Usher also shared that he feels “like a son to New York” because he started his career in NYC. “I feel connected to my fans here in New York and around the world.  Wherever you are, this is the type of fragrance that is wide enough for everyone to enjoy.”  

Ralph’s Club New York (eau de parfum) fragrance retails for $185. (USD) and is available online at ralphlauren.com and at Macy’s.