Internationally acclaimed music artist and entertainment mogul Usher has initiated legal action against a group of investors in Atlanta after a high-profile restaurant and lounge project collapsed, leaving a significant loan unpaid. The lawsuit, filed recently in an Atlanta court, centres on a $1.7 million loan that Usher provided to help purchase a property for the venture, known as Homage ATL.
The Deal That Never Materialised
According to the legal documents, the situation began in late 2024 when three men presented Usher with a business plan to open a new restaurant and lounge in the upscale Buckhead neighbourhood of Atlanta. While the singer, whose full name is Usher Raymond IV, was interested, he decided against becoming a direct investor in Homage ATL. Instead, he opted to support the project by providing a loan of $1.7 million specifically for the acquisition of the commercial property.
The funds were transferred to the trust account of Atlanta-based lawyer Alcide Honoré, who was representing some of the investors. Honoré is now named as a defendant in the lawsuit for his role in handling the transaction.
Breakdown in Communication and Repayment
When the restaurant deal ultimately fell through and never came to fruition, Usher rightfully requested the return of his money. The investors managed to repay $1 million in August, but communication soon broke down completely. Despite repeated efforts, Usher has been unable to recover the remaining $700,000, leading to the decision to pursue the matter in court.
When approached for comment, Alcide Honoré directed questions to his attorney, who did not immediately respond to calls or emails. The lawsuit also names record producer and songwriter Bryan-Michael Cox as one of the defendants. Cox addressed the issue on Instagram, clarifying that he is a "passive minority shareholder" in one of the involved companies. He was quick to affirm that his "27-year friendship with Usher remains fully intact," suggesting the legal dispute is strictly business.
What Happens Next?
Two other men from the Atlanta metropolitan area are also named in the lawsuit. At this early stage of the legal proceedings, no lawyers have been listed for them in the court records. The case highlights the financial risks that can accompany even the most promising entertainment and hospitality ventures, especially when they involve complex investor agreements.
For now, the future of the proposed Homage ATL restaurant appears bleak, and all eyes are on the Atlanta legal system to see how this financial dispute between the global superstar and the investor group will be resolved.
