It is impossible for someone to have not heard of Justin Bieber. Debuting hits “Baby” and “Sorry,” Bieber rushed into the music scene at a young age and has played a prominent role in the industry since.
Born on March 1, 1994 in Canada, Bieber grew up playing several instruments, including the guitar and drums. His parents encouraged his music ability, prompting his entrance into the industry at an early age. After being discovered on YouTube by talent manager Scooter Braun, he eventually signed onto a record label. This marked the very beginning of fame.
His first song “One Time” in 2009 introduced Bieber to the public, peaking at number 17 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. However, his hit “Baby” in 2010 put him on the map. Many, from toddlers to the elderly, can recognize this iconic tune. “Baby” was catchy and new. And after collaborating with rapper Ludacris, he rose further in popularity in both the pop and rap scene.
As Bieber matured, America had front row seats, from his awkward puberty phases to his romance with Selena Gomez. And through the years, from childhood to teenagerhood to early adulthood, he claimed several successes on the music charts. However, his ultimate boom arrived in 2016. Every song released that year, including “What do you mean?” and “Sorry,” was a bop played repeatedly for months. 2016 was Justin Bieber’s year.
However, appearances are not always what they seem. Although his social media displayed a lively Bieber attending parties and making jokes, Bieber was secretly suffering mentally, emotionally and physically. In the middle of his Purpose tour, he suddenly pulled out. He canceled the remaining half of his tour, leaving many fans distraught. What had happened to him?
According to The Washington Post, Bieber grappled with the dark side of fame. He said, “I became resentful, disrespectful to women and angry. I became distant to everyone who loved me, and I was hiding behind a shell of a person that I had become.”
Bieber had to find himself again and rebuild his values. Throughout a four-year break between 2016 and 2020, he experienced several life-altering events. He married model Hailey Baldwin, 23. He spent more time with his family. He strove to rest mentally and recovered from depression originating from dissatisfaction with himself and his music.
It is not uncommon for artists to experience a low during their career. Many artists can feel as if they are unable express themselves fully. They become dissatisfied with themselves, while also facing constant pressure from fans that can negatively affect their work ethic. Artists like Linkin Park and Avicii have committed suicide in the face of similar experiences.
In addition to emotional exhaustion, Bieber also developed Lyme disease, which is transmitted through a tick bite. Symptoms include nausea, depression, mood swings and constant exhaustion. And after getting treated for both depression and Lyme disease, he recovered with a new mentality and a fresh outlook.
Although Justin took a break, he did not stay off the radar completely. Several of his fellow music artists’ singles, including DJ Snake’s “Cold Water” from 2016 and Billie Eilish’s “Bad Guy” from 2019, have featured his vocals.
Finally, Bieber released his first solo single in four years on Jan. 3 titled “Yummy,” a catchy, bouncy song that has already gone mainstream. On Feb. 14, he released his first album in five years, which he named “Changes.”
The release of new music and his upcoming tour has created commotion within his fanbase, with many ready to pay hundreds to see their favorite artist after so long. Many die-hard fans are ecstatic for his return, and Bieber’s upcoming tour is predicted to be his biggest and most popular one yet.
While announcing his new album, Bieber said, “As humans we are imperfect. My past, my mistakes, all the things that I’ve been through, I believe that I’m right where I’m supposed to be and God has me right where he wants me.”
Bieber is a young, wealthy male, but some forget that celebrities like Bieber face similar issues related to love and mental stability as well. Many bashed on him for taking time for himself and avoiding the public. However, after time and support from his loved ones and fanbase, Bieber is ready to return with his best album yet.
Image courtesy of Slate
