LONDON (AP) -- Usher's had a turbulent few months, but now he's back where he belongs -- on stage.

On Saturday, the R&B singer kicks off the iTunes Festival in London, a month's worth of free shows at the Roundhouse.

Over the summer, Usher coped with the death of his stepson and a custody battle over his two sons, which he won.

He took time out to deal with these challenges, all while his fans were desperate for him to perform again.

Usher jokes: "Man, it's like `shut up and entertain, we don't care about your personal stuff."'

He adds, however, that his fans gave him support on Twitter during the tough times, proving their loyalty.

The iTunes 2012 Festival line-up also includes One Direction, Lana Del Rey, Muse and Alicia Keys.