Usher Sues Former Friends for $4.9M Over Failed Atlanta Restaurant Deal
ATLANTA, GA — Superstar singer Usher Raymond IV has filed a $4.9 million lawsuit in Fulton County, Georgia, accusing several former friends and business associates of failing to repay a large loan tied to a failed Buckhead restaurant deal.
A Lavish Vision Gone Wrong
According to court filings made on Nov. 14, the Grammy-winning artist claims he was misled in a real estate deal meant to launch a luxury restaurant and lounge called Homage ATL, originally planned for a Piedmont Road property valued at $6.3 million.
Usher alleges that in 2024, three associates approached him seeking investment in the project. Though he declined to become an equity partner, the singer agreed to loan $1.7 million to help purchase the property. After the deal fell through, the group returned $1 million but allegedly failed to repay the remaining $700,000.
The lawsuit contends that the borrowers were obligated to return the full loan once the purchase collapsed, accusing them of breaching their agreement by withholding the balance.
Bryan-Michael Cox Addresses Online Speculation
As news of the lawsuit spread online, Grammy-winning producer and longtime Usher collaborator Bryan-Michael Cox found himself pulled into the controversy. To set the record straight, Cox posted a statement on Instagram alongside throwback photos of himself with Usher.
“I’ve learned a lot recently about choosing partners wisely,” he wrote. “I’m in the middle of a failed deal that I didn’t orchestrate.”
Cox clarified that he is merely a minority shareholder in the company named in the filing and had no role in managing or structuring the transaction. He said his attorneys only recently informed him of the case and emphasized that he has no involvement in the ongoing legal process.
Friendship Remains Intact
Seeking to dispel rumors of a fallout, Cox reassured fans that his 27-year friendship with Usher remains strong despite the legal tension surrounding others involved. “This is an unfortunate situation,” he said, “but our personal and professional bond is fully intact.”
Cox thanked supporters for their understanding and expressed confidence that his reputation will stand once all facts are known. Meanwhile, Usher continues to pursue repayment of the loan and additional damages tied to the abandoned Buckhead project.