Usher Joins Ralph Lauren Fragrances to Launch ‘Ralph’s Club New York,’ Marking Bold Expansion Beyond ‘Polo’
In a significant move that signals a bold new chapter for its men’s fragrance division, Ralph Lauren Fragrances has announced a groundbreaking partnership with global music icon Usher. The eight-time Grammy Award winner will be the face of the brand’s latest signature scent, Ralph’s Club New York Eau de Parfum, a collaboration officially unveiled yesterday, July 16, 2025.
This landmark alliance marks Usher’s first-ever fragrance campaign and Ralph Lauren Fragrances’ inaugural partnership with a major music superstar, setting a fresh tone for the brand’s distinguished portfolio that has long been synonymous with the iconic “Polo” collection.
Ralph’s Club New York: A Tribute to the City That Inspires
“Ralph’s Club New York Eau de Parfum” is conceived as an olfactive celebration of the legendary city – embodying its timeless glamour, vibrant modern energy, authenticity, and enduring excellence. The fragrance aims to capture the spirit of Manhattan’s golden age, drawing inspiration from cultural legends like Frank Sinatra and the city’s unparalleled influence on fashion, music, and street culture.
Usher’s involvement extends far beyond simply fronting the campaign. He has composed an original song for the launch, a reimagining of Sinatra’s classic “New York, New York,” infusing it with his own distinctive melodic flair. “It was about creating something timeless, yet mine,” Usher told L’Officiel, describing his approach to the campaign.
“With this being my first fragrance campaign, I wanted to approach it the way I would an album or a tour – every detail had to tell a story – it was about curating a world that felt cinematic, elevated and authentic.“
The fragrance itself is described as being infused with notes of lavender, bourbon, and sandalwood, hinting at a sophisticated and alluring profile housed in a sleek silver flask-style bottle adorned with Ralph Lauren’s signature logo.
A Natural Synergy: Usher’s Vision Meets Ralph Lauren’s Legacy
For Usher, this partnership is a dream realized, stemming from a childhood aspiration toward the Ralph Lauren brand. “It’s a journey come true,” he shared with PEOPLE, reflecting on the brand’s early influence. He believes there is a “natural synergy” between his creative ethos and Ralph Lauren’s legacy.
“We build worlds through style, emotion and storytelling,” he stated, highlighting the shared commitment to authenticity and excellence.
Charles Finaz de Villaine, Global President of Ralph Lauren Fragrances, echoed this sentiment, noting,
“Ralph Lauren Fragrances is entering a new chapter that is more daring and outspoken than ever. Usher is the dream artist to bring this power, creativity, and boldness to life.“
The campaign’s visuals, brought to life by acclaimed photographers Mert Alas & Marcus Piggott, director Jacob Sutton, and choreographer Tariq Patterson, blend the opulent nightlife of the Studio 54 era with the vibrant flair of the Harlem Renaissance and modern-day elegance, creating a truly cinematic experience.
This groundbreaking collaboration with Usher and the introduction of “Ralph’s Club New York Eau de Parfum” underscore Ralph Lauren Fragrances’ ambition to expand its narrative, offering a diverse range of scents that resonate with contemporary men while staying true to the brand’s heritage of aspirational style and sophistication.
