In a recent PEOPLE cover story, Usher candidly reflects on his past experiences in the music industry, shedding light on a pivotal moment that involved both Justin Timberlake and Justin Bieber. The talented musician, who was at the peak of his career at the time, found himself in a 'bidding war' with Timberlake to sign a young and promising Bieber to his and Scooter Braun's record label, Raymond Braun Media Group, back in 2008.
Usher recalls the moment he was introduced to Bieber and Braun shortly after the release of his album, 'Confessions.' Despite the competitive nature of their pursuit, Usher made an offer to Braun that he believed was too enticing to resist. This marked the beginning of a lasting partnership that would extend through the years.
As Usher delves into the backstory of his relationship with Braun, he emphasizes the significance of supporting young talents like Bieber. He felt a sense of responsibility to nurture Bieber's potential, recognizing that the industry could only accommodate one 'Justin.' Usher's unwavering belief in Braun's capabilities as a manager played a crucial role in sealing the partnership.
Throughout the coverage, Usher also addresses the comparisons between his career and Timberlake's, emphasizing his admiration for Timberlake's artistry and expressing his desire to collaborate in the future. Despite the competitive nature of the industry, Usher maintains that his main competition is with himself, always striving to surpass his own achievements and evolve as an artist.
In a separate interview with The Breakfast Club, Usher discusses Bieber's absence from the 2024 Super Bowl halftime show, citing the latter's focus on telling a different narrative in his career. Despite this, Usher remains optimistic about future collaborations with Bieber and acknowledges the immense respect he holds for Bieber's artistic journey.
Usher's introspective reflections offer a glimpse into the complexities of the music industry and the dynamics of artist relationships. As he continues to navigate his own career path, Usher remains committed to uplifting and empowering emerging talents while staying true to his own artistic vision.
