There are few narratives in the dazzling, often tumultuous, world of celebrity that captivate us quite like the epic ascent of Justin Bieber. From humble beginnings to global megastardom, his journey has been a whirlwind of record-breaking hits, groundbreaking achievements, and deeply personal transformations, all unfolding under the watchful, loving eye of his devoted mother, Pattie Mallette. Her unwavering support, a silent prayer echoing through his public life, forms an intrinsic backdrop to the story of a boy who became a man in the most intensely scrutinised spotlight imaginable.
Indeed, Justin Bieber’s story isn’t just about the music or the fame; it’s a testament to resilience, growth, and the enduring power of family. We’ve seen him navigate the dizzying heights of adoration and the challenging valleys of public scrutiny, evolving from a fresh-faced teen idol to a celebrated, multi-genre artist. It’s a journey filled with pivotal moments that not only defined his career but also revealed the strength of character forged in his early years.
As we embark on a look back at the defining chapters of his incredible career, it’s impossible to overlook the constant presence of his mother. Pattie Mallette, who raised him as a single parent, instilled values that have undoubtedly guided him through the complexities of Hollywood. Her faith, her sacrifices, and her dreams for her son are as much a part of his legend as any number-one hit or sold-out arena, laying a crucial foundation for the phenomenon he would become.
1. **Humble Beginnings & Early Discovery**Justin Drew Bieber entered the world on March 1, 1994, at St. Joseph’s Hospital in London, Ontario, and spent his formative years in Stratford. His parents, Jeremy Jack Bieber and Pattie Mallette, were both just 18 when he was born, and their path diverged not long after. This meant Pattie took on the monumental task of raising Justin as a single mother.
She worked tirelessly, taking on a series of low-paying office jobs, ensuring Justin had a home in low-income housing. Pattie wasn’t alone in her endeavors; her own mother, Diane, and stepfather, Bruce, provided crucial assistance in raising the young Bieber. Despite the family’s financial struggles, Justin maintained contact with his father, forming a complex family dynamic that would shape his early life.
From a very young age, it was clear Justin possessed an innate musical talent. He immersed himself in learning to play the piano, drums, guitar, and trumpet, showcasing a natural aptitude for various instruments. This passion for music blossomed publicly in early 2007 when, at just 12 years old, he performed Ne-Yo’s “So Sick” at a local singing competition in Stratford, securing an impressive second place.
It was this very performance that sparked an unforeseen chain of events. Pattie, beaming with pride, uploaded a video of her son’s rendition to YouTube, primarily for family and friends to enjoy. She continued to share more videos of Justin covering popular R&B songs, and his undeniable talent quickly garnered attention, leading to a surprising surge in his online popularity.
The global superstar’s discovery was serendipitous. Scooter Braun, a former marketing executive, stumbled upon one of Justin’s 2007 YouTube videos by accident while searching for a different singer. Impressed by what he saw, Braun embarked on a determined quest to find the young talent. He tracked down Justin’s school, the theater where he busked, and eventually made contact with his mother, Pattie Mallette.
Pattie, a woman of deep faith, initially expressed reluctance due to Braun’s Judaism. She candidly recalled praying, saying, “God, I gave him to you. You could send me a Christian man, a Christian label!” and “God, you don’t want this Jewish kid to be Justin’s man, do you?” However, after consultations with church elders, she was ultimately convinced to allow Justin to pursue this incredible opportunity with Braun, a decision that would forever alter the course of music history.
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2. **The “My World” Phenomenon & Teen Idol Status**With Pattie’s blessing, a then 13-year-old Justin journeyed to Atlanta, Georgia, with Scooter Braun to record demo tapes. The raw talent was undeniable, and just one week later, Justin found himself singing for none other than Usher, a pivotal meeting that would rapidly propel his career forward. This audition quickly led to a significant signing that would define his early trajectory.
Justin soon signed with Raymond Braun Media Group (RBMG), a joint venture meticulously crafted between Braun and Usher. Interestingly, the legendary Justin Timberlake was also reportedly vying to sign Bieber but ultimately lost the bidding war to Usher, partly due to concerns about market confusion with two similarly named artists. This early competition underscored the immense potential everyone saw in the young Canadian.
Usher then sought assistance from his manager Chris Hicks to find a suitable label home for Justin. Hicks masterminded an audition with his contact L.A. Reid of the Island Def Jam Music Group, a connection that proved instrumental. In October 2008, Reid officially signed Bieber to Island Records, resulting in a joint venture between RBMG and Island Records, and appointed Hicks as executive vice-president of Def Jam to oversee Bieber’s burgeoning career at the label.
Following this landmark signing, Justin, accompanied by his mother, relocated to Atlanta to dedicate himself fully to his work with Braun and Usher. Braun officially took on the role of Justin’s manager in 2008, establishing the core team that would guide him through the initial explosive years of his career. The stage was set for a global takeover.
Justin’s very first single, “One Time,” was released to radio airwaves while he was still immersed in recording his debut album. The track immediately made an impact, reaching number 12 on the Canadian Hot 100 during its inaugural week of release in July 2009. It also climbed to number 17 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States, signaling his nascent international appeal.
Throughout the fall of 2009, “One Time” continued its impressive run, achieving significant success in various international markets. It quickly earned platinum certifications in both Canada and the US, alongside gold certifications in Australia and New Zealand, solidifying his presence on the global music scene. This early triumph was just a prelude to what was to come.
His debut extended play, aptly titled *My World*, was unleashed upon an eager public on November 17, 2009. The EP’s second single, “One Less Lonely Girl,” along with two promotional singles, “Love Me” and “Favorite Girl,” were exclusively released on the iTunes Store. Remarkably, all three swiftly charted within the top 40 of the US Billboard Hot 100, showcasing his immediate impact.
This incredible achievement made him the first solo artist in history to have four singles chart in the top 40 of the Hot 100 even before the official release of his debut album. “One Less Lonely Girl” later crossed over to radio, peaking within the top 20 in both Canada and the US, where it earned a gold certification. The anticipation for his full album was reaching a fever pitch.
Following the release of *My World*, Justin made history yet again by becoming the first artist to have an astonishing seven songs from a debut album chart on the Billboard Hot 100. The EP itself was ultimately certified platinum in the US and achieved double platinum status in both Canada and the United Kingdom, cementing his place as a burgeoning international sensation and a true teen idol.
To ensure his music reached every corner of the globe, Justin embarked on a rigorous promotional circuit. He graced stages on various live shows, including mtvU’s VMA 09 Tour, the European program The Dome, YTV’s The Next Star, and popular American talk shows such as The Today Show, The Wendy Williams Show, Lopez Tonight, The Ellen DeGeneres Show, Good Morning America, and Chelsea Lately. He also made appearances on It’s On with Alexa Chung and BET’s 106 & Park, captivating audiences wherever he went.
His rising profile even led to a guest starring role in an episode of *True Jackson, VP* in late 2009. Demonstrating his burgeoning cultural significance, Justin performed Ron Miller and Bryan Wells’s “Someday at Christmas” for none other than US President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama at the White House for Christmas in Washington, which was broadcast on December 20, 2009, on US television broadcaster TNT. His star was clearly on the rise, reaching unprecedented heights for such a young artist.
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3. **”My World 2.0″ & Chart-Topping Dominance**The year 2010 began with Justin Bieber already a presenter at the prestigious 52nd Annual Grammy Awards on January 31, a clear sign of his rapidly escalating status in the music industry. His influence quickly extended beyond pop, as he was invited to lend his voice to the remake of the charity single “We Are the World” for its 25th anniversary, a benefit for Haiti following the devastating earthquake. Justin famously sang the opening line, originally performed by Lionel Richie, showcasing his impactful presence.
Further demonstrating his commitment to humanitarian causes, Justin also featured in a version of K’naan’s “Wavin’ Flag,” recorded by a collective of Canadian musicians known as Young Artists for Haiti, which was released on March 12, 2010. He performed the closing lines of the song, contributing his talent to another meaningful project. This early involvement in charitable efforts highlighted a growing maturity beyond his years.
In January 2010, the lead single from his much-anticipated debut album, *My World 2.0*, was unleashed: “Baby.” Featuring the renowned rapper Ludacris, the song became an undeniable international sensation. It soared to number five on the US Billboard Hot 100 and peaked at number three on the Canadian Hot 100, also reaching the top ten in numerous other international markets, cementing its status as a global hit.
Alongside “Baby,” promotional singles “Never Let You Go” and “U Smile” proved equally popular, becoming top 30 hits on the US Hot 100 and top 20 hits in Canada. These releases collectively built an immense anticipation for *My World 2.0*, which was poised to be one of the year’s biggest musical events. Critics generally offered favorable reviews, acknowledging Justin’s undeniable talent and potential.
The album delivered on its promise, debuting at number one on the US Billboard 200. This phenomenal achievement made Justin Bieber the youngest solo male act to top the chart since the iconic Stevie Wonder in 1963, a testament to his unprecedented appeal. *My World 2.0* also debuted at number one on the Canadian, Irish, Australian, and New Zealand Albums Charts, and impressively secured a spot in the top 10 in fifteen other countries, showcasing his truly global reach.
To further champion the album, Justin appeared on a string of high-profile live programs, including The View, the 2010 Kids’ Choice Awards, Nightline, Late Show with David Letterman, The Dome, and 106 & Park. He tirelessly promoted his music, connecting with his burgeoning fanbase across various media platforms. The album’s widespread success was a clear indicator of his status as a mainstream phenomenon.
Sean Kingston joined Justin on the album’s next single, “Eenie Meenie,” which subsequently reached the top ten in the UK and Australia, and the top 20 in most other markets. The subsequent single from *My World 2.0*, “Somebody to Love,” was released in April 2010, and a special remix featuring his esteemed mentor, Usher, further amplified its appeal, highlighting the powerful collaborations he was already attracting.
By June 23, Justin embarked on his very first official headlining tour, the My World Tour, designed to extensively promote both *My World* and *My World 2.0*. His touring schedule was rigorous, reflecting the demand for his live performances. In May 2010, Justin also featured in rapper Soulja Boy’s song “Rich Girl,” demonstrating his willingness to explore diverse musical collaborations.
His digital footprint was equally impressive; in July, he was reported to be the most searched-for celebrity on the Internet, a clear indicator of his widespread public fascination. That same month, his music video for “Baby” surpassed Lady Gaga’s “Bad Romance” as the most viewed, and most disliked, YouTube video at the time, showcasing both his immense popularity and the passionate, often divided, reactions he elicited. By September, an employee of Twitter reported that Justin accounted for an astonishing 3% of the platform’s traffic, underscoring his colossal social media influence and global trending power.
4. **Navigating Puberty & Vocal Changes in the Spotlight**The transition between Justin’s early work, specifically his debut EP *My World*, and his full-length album *My World 2.0*, brought a notable change to his sound. Fans and critics alike began to observe that his voice had audibly deepened. This natural shift was, of course, attributed to puberty, a universal experience that most teenagers navigate away from the public gaze, but for Justin, it happened directly under the intense scrutiny of global superstardom.
Imagine undergoing such a significant physiological change while your voice is quite literally your livelihood, and millions of ears are listening intently to every single note. It’s an immense pressure. Justin himself candidly addressed this challenge in April 2010, acknowledging the very human process he was undergoing. He remarked, “It cracks. Like every teenage boy, I’m dealing with it and I have the best vocal coach in the world.”
This honesty offered a glimpse into the personal struggles behind the polished performances. He continued, explaining the real-time impact on his craft: “Some of the notes I hit on ‘Baby’ I can’t hit any more. We have to lower the key when I sing live.” This revelation was a reminder that despite his meteoric rise, he was still a young man facing typical teenage challenges, albeit on an extraordinarily public platform. It highlighted his dedication to his artistry, adapting his performances to maintain quality even through vocal maturation.
This period was a crucial test of his resilience and commitment to his music. While many artists might step back during such a transformative phase, Justin continued to perform, record, and tour, demonstrating a remarkable professional tenacity. His willingness to openly discuss these changes allowed fans to connect with him on a more personal level, seeing him not just as an idol but as a relatable young person growing up.
The public’s fascination with his vocal evolution became another layer of his unfolding narrative, showcasing his ability to evolve and mature as an artist. It was a clear sign that his career wouldn’t be defined by a single sound or a static image, but by a dynamic progression, further cementing his enduring appeal in the demanding entertainment industry. This period, while challenging, ultimately contributed to the depth and versatility of his artistic journey.
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5. **The “Never Say Never” Era (Film & Remixes)**Beyond his chart-topping music, Justin Bieber made a significant foray into the world of cinema with the release of *Justin Bieber: Never Say Never*. This ambitious project, a 3-D film that was part biopic and part concert experience, hit theaters on February 11, 2011. Directed by Jon M. Chu, known for *Step Up 3D*, the film offered an intimate look into Bieber’s life and explosive career.
The movie was an immediate box office success, surpassing industry expectations. On its opening day, it topped the box office with an estimated gross of $12.4 million from 3,105 theaters, a staggering figure for a concert film. Over the opening weekend, it accumulated $30.3 million, only narrowly being outpaced by the romantic comedy *Just Go with It* which grossed $31 million, a remarkable feat that spoke volumes about his immense popularity.
*Never Say Never* nearly matched the $31.1 million grossed by Miley Cyrus’s 2008 3-D concert film, *Hannah Montana & Miley Cyrus: Best of Both Worlds Concert*, which held the record for the top debut for a music-documentary at the time. This performance further underscored Justin’s unparalleled drawing power and his ability to transcend traditional music industry boundaries, turning his personal story into a cinematic event.
Ultimately, *Justin Bieber: Never Say Never* achieved a total worldwide gross of $99,034,125. This impressive figure solidified its place in cinema history, making it the highest-grossing concert or performance film at the global box office. The film wasn’t just a commercial triumph; it was a cultural phenomenon, allowing millions of fans to experience his journey up close and personal.
Accompanying the film was his second remix album, *Never Say Never – The Remixes*, which was released on February 14, 2011. This album featured reimagined versions of songs from his debut, enriched by a stellar lineup of guest appearances from artists such as Miley Cyrus, Chris Brown, and Kanye West, further extending the reach and appeal of his music through exciting collaborations.
Justin’s omnipresence during this period extended beyond music and film. He participated in the 2011 NBA All-Star Celebrity Game on February 18, 2011, showcasing his competitive spirit. Impressively, he was even named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the game, scoring eight points with two rebounds and four assists, demonstrating that his talents weren’t limited to the stage.
In June 2011, an album track from the *Never Say Never* project, titled “That Should Be Me” and featuring Rascal Flatts, earned him his very first award in country music for Collaborative Video of the Year at the CMT Music Awards. This crossover success highlighted his broad appeal and ability to connect with diverse audiences. That same month, *Time* magazine recognized his growing influence by naming him one of the 100 most influential people in the world on their annual list, a testament to his burgeoning cultural impact.
His financial success was also soaring; in June 2011, *Forbes* ranked him No. 2 on their list of Best-Paid Celebrities under 30. As the youngest star on the list and one of only seven musicians, he had amassed an astonishing $53 million in a mere 12-month period, a clear indicator of his unprecedented earning power at such a young age. The same month, his collaborative single “Next to You” with American singer Chris Brown was released, with its official video dropping on June 17 after an unfinished version leaked online, further adding to the excitement around his artistic output.
6. **Holiday Success with “Under the Mistletoe”**As the calendar turned towards the festive season in 2011, Justin Bieber presented his fans with a delightful and unexpected musical gift: *Under the Mistletoe*. Released on November 1, 2011, this album marked his second studio effort and took on a decidedly Christmas theme, showcasing a different facet of his musical versatility and appeal.
The album wasn’t just a holiday treat; it was a record-breaker. *Under the Mistletoe* made history by becoming the first Christmas album by a male artist ever to debut at number one on the Billboard 200. This was a significant achievement, underscoring his immense popularity across various genres and seasonal releases. The album sold an impressive 210,000 copies in its first week of release, signaling a strong reception from his dedicated fanbase and holiday music enthusiasts alike.
Fast forward ten years, and the album’s enduring quality was still recognized. On November 19, 2021, *Under the Mistletoe* was fittingly listed among the Greatest of All Time Top Holiday Albums chart by Billboard, a testament to its lasting impact and popular appeal. This recognition solidified its place as a modern classic in the canon of holiday music, proving its timeless charm.
The lead single from the album, the aptly titled “Mistletoe,” quickly resonated with listeners, capturing the festive spirit. It soared to the number one position on both the US Billboard Holiday 100 and Holiday Digital Songs charts, dominating the seasonal music landscape. The song became an instant holiday staple, further cementing Justin’s ability to craft hits that connect deeply with audiences.
Justin also released “All I Want for Christmas Is You (SuperFestive!)” as the album’s second single. This was a re-recorded version of Mariah Carey’s iconic original, made even more special with Carey herself providing vocals on the track. This collaboration brought together two generations of pop royalty, creating a memorable and widely cherished holiday anthem.
Billboard itself acknowledged the album’s significant contribution to the holiday music genre, listing *Under the Mistletoe* and its singles among the greatest Holiday albums and songs of all time, respectively. This demonstrated not only the commercial success of the project but also its critical and cultural acceptance as a standout seasonal release, further solidifying Justin Bieber’s impressive and diverse discography.
7. **Musical Evolution with “Believe” (Dance-pop & R&B)**As 2011 drew to a close, Justin Bieber began earnestly recording his third studio album, a project that promised a significant evolution in his sound and image. Titled *Believe*, this album was highly anticipated, as fans and critics wondered how the now-maturing pop sensation would redefine his artistry. The very next week, Justin made a high-profile appearance on *The Ellen DeGeneres Show* to announce that the album’s first single would be called “Boyfriend,” and its release was set for March 26, 2012.
“Boyfriend” immediately made a splash, debuting at an impressive number two on the US Billboard Hot 100. It sold a remarkable 521,000 digital units, marking the second-highest-ever debut digital sales week at the time. Bill Werde of Billboard noted that the only reason it didn’t debut at number one was because the digital download was exclusively available through the iTunes Store, thereby “restricting the buying option for those [who] do not frequent the Apple retail store.”
Despite this technical hurdle, “Boyfriend” achieved another significant milestone: it became Justin’s first single ever to reach the top position on the Canadian Hot 100, debuting at number one and holding that spot for a week. This underscored his continued dominance in his home country. In February 2012, Justin also featured on American hip-hop group Far East Movement’s song “Live My Life,” from their fourth studio album, *Dirty Bass*, which surprisingly emerged online five days before its scheduled release date and peaked within the top 30 of the Billboard Hot 100.
Further promoting the album, the first promotional single from *Believe*, “Die in Your Arms,” was released on May 29, 2012, setting the tone for the new sound. This was swiftly followed by the second promotional single, “All Around the World,” featuring American rapper Ludacris, which dropped the very next week. These tracks hinted at a departure from his earlier teen pop aesthetic, showcasing a more sophisticated and varied musical palette.
The second official single from *Believe*, “As Long as You Love Me,” featuring Big Sean, was released on June 11, 2012, and quickly ascended to number six on the Billboard Hot 100. This demonstrated his ability to successfully blend pop melodies with contemporary R&B and hip-hop influences, a clear sign of his artistic growth. The full album, *Believe*, was finally released on June 19, 2012, by Island Records, and it truly marked a pivotal moment in his career.
*Believe* was lauded as a significant musical departure from the pure teen pop sound that defined his previous releases. Instead, it boldly incorporated elements of dance-pop and R&B genres, signaling Justin’s deliberate move towards a more mature sound. Intent on this artistic development, he collaborated with a wide array of urban producers for the project, alongside some of his long-time creative partners, including Darkchild, Hit-Boy, Diplo, and Max Martin. This diverse production team helped craft a fresh, contemporary sound that resonated with a broader audience.
Critics were largely impressed by this transformation. *Entertainment Weekly* enthusiastically praised Justin’s musical shift, hailing the album as both a “reinvention and a reintroduction.” *Rolling Stone* noted the discernible deepening of his voice and the more “intense” beats found on the album, recognizing the serious artistic effort behind the project, even playfully lampooning one of his euphemisms for newfound ual maturity in a song lyric.
*Believe* debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, impressively becoming his fourth number-one album, solidifying his commercial power while pushing artistic boundaries. It also sold 57,000 copies in its first week in Canada, debuting atop the Canadian Albums Chart. The album’s success was a clear indicator that Justin Bieber was successfully transitioning from a teen idol to a respected, evolving artist.
In September 2012, Justin’s collaborative spirit continued as he was featured on “Beautiful,” a track from Carly Rae Jepsen’s second studio album, *Kiss*. This further showcased his willingness to support fellow artists. The third single from *Believe*, “Beauty and a Beat,” featuring Nicki Minaj, was released in October 2012. Its music video set a new record at the time for the most video views in 24 hours, garnering an astonishing 10.6 million views upon its release, a testament to its immediate visual and auditory impact.
The Believe Tour, designed to further promote the album and its new sound, commenced in September 2012 in Glendale, Arizona, taking his evolving artistry to his global fanbase. This era also saw some personal challenges surface, as Justin hosted and performed as the musical guest on *Saturday Night Live* on February 9, 2013. His appearance was notably panned by critics and even by cast members, with Kate McKinnon remarking that he wasn’t comfortable with his hosting duties, and Bill Hader adding that Bieber and his entourage were not enjoyable to work with. Hader even went so far as to state that in his eight years on the television program, Bieber was the only host who truly lived up to his negative reputation. These moments, while difficult, painted a picture of a young star still navigating the intense demands and pressures of his unique career path.
Just a month later, on March 7, 2013, Justin experienced a health scare backstage at London’s O2 Arena, fainting after complaining of breathing problems throughout his concert performance, leading to a hospital visit. A planned concert in Lisbon, Portugal, on March 12, was subsequently canceled due to low ticket sales, highlighting the sporadic challenges even a superstar faces. However, the concert at the same venue on March 11 did proceed as scheduled, showing his determination to continue performing despite obstacles.
Following the monumental success of *Believe*, Justin Bieber continued his relentless artistic exploration, refusing to rest on his laurels. This period saw him delve deeper into diverse sounds and embark on ambitious projects that would further cement his status as a multifaceted artist capable of constant reinvention. The road wasn’t always smooth, but his determination to evolve shone through, laying the groundwork for even greater triumphs ahead. His journey was a masterclass in navigating the pressures of fame while striving for authentic artistic expression.
8. **The “Journals” Era & A Glimpse of the Future**The period directly following *Believe* saw Justin engaging with fans in unique ways, foreshadowing the more intimate and experimental direction his music would take. In mid-August 2013, a remixed duet version of Michael Jackson’s previously unreleased song “Slave to the Rhythm,” featuring Bieber, leaked online. While unauthorized by the Michael Jackson Estate, this moment hinted at his aspiration to connect with legendary artistry and push boundaries, even if through unforeseen circumstances. Not long after, another track, “Twerk” by rapper Lil Twist, also leaked, featuring Bieber and Miley Cyrus, further fueling public discourse around his evolving image and collaborations.
Demonstrating his collaborative spirit, Justin was also featured in Maejor Ali’s song “Lolly” with rapper Juicy J in September. That same month, he made a cameo appearance in the music video for American singer Madison Beer’s debut single, “Melodies.” These diverse engagements underscored his willingness to lend his star power to various projects, showcasing a growing versatility beyond his primary pop domain. It was clear that he was exploring different artistic avenues, preparing for a new chapter in his musical narrative.
On October 3, 2013, Justin unveiled an ambitious plan: “Music Mondays.” For ten consecutive weeks, he promised to release a new song every Monday, building anticipation for his upcoming film *Justin Bieber’s Believe*, a follow-up to *Never Say Never* directed by Jon M. Chu. Tracks like “Heartbreaker,” “All That Matters,” “Hold Tight,” and “Confident” featuring Chance the Rapper, offered a richer, more R&B-infused sound, giving fans a deeper insight into his maturing musical preferences. This innovative release strategy kept him at the forefront of the music conversation, demonstrating a savvy understanding of digital engagement.
These “Music Mondays” tracks, along with five additional unreleased songs, were compiled into the album *Journals*, available for a limited time exclusively via iTunes from December 23, 2013, to January 9, 2014. Featuring collaborations with artists like Lil Wayne, Future, Big Sean, and Diplo, *Journals* presented a more introspective and experimental side of Bieber, moving further into the R&B space. In November 2014, he also released “Home to Mama” with Cody Simpson, a more acoustic offering that resonated with his early, heartfelt style. This period was crucial for his artistic development, showing a clear shift towards a more adult sound.
Off-stage, Justin continued to be a significant figure in popular culture and business. In November 2014, *Forbes* magazine recognized his substantial earnings by topping him on their annual “Forbes 30 Under 30” ranking of highest-earning celebrities under 30. Professionally, the disbanding of Universal Music’s division, The Island Def Jam Music Group, in April 2014, led to Bieber’s transfer to Def Jam Recordings, marking a new chapter in his label associations and setting the stage for future record-breaking ventures.
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9. **”Purpose” – A Groundbreaking Rebirth**2015 heralded a pivotal turning point in Justin Bieber’s career with the release of *Purpose*, an album that marked a profound artistic rebirth and garnered widespread critical acclaim. The first taste of this new sound came in February 2015 with “Where Are Ü Now,” a dynamic collaboration with electronic music duo Jack Ü. This track was an immediate success, soaring to number eight on the Billboard Hot 100 and topping Billboard’s Hot Dance/Electronic Songs chart, ultimately earning Bieber his first-ever Grammy Award for Best Dance/Electronic Recording at the 58th Annual Grammy Awards.
The lead single from *Purpose*, “What Do You Mean?” dropped on August 28, 2015, and shattered expectations. This vibrant blend of teen pop, electronic dance music, and acoustic R&B debuted at number one on the US Billboard Hot 100, marking Bieber’s first number-one single in the country. He simultaneously set a Guinness World Record for being the youngest solo male artist to debut at the top of the Hot 100 and broke the record for the fastest song to reach number one on US iTunes, achieving the feat in under five minutes. This single alone signaled a new era of dominance.
*Purpose* continued to deliver chart-topping hits, with “Sorry” and “Love Yourself” both ascending to the number one position in the US. This incredible achievement made Bieber the first male artist in almost a decade to have three number-ones from a single album since Justin Timberlake accomplished it in 2006–07. Furthermore, he made history by becoming the first solo artist to simultaneously chart three solo songs in the top five of the Billboard Hot 100, a feat not seen from a lead act since The Beatles in 1964.
The album’s impact extended into year-end charts, where “Love Yourself” impressively topped Billboard’s Year-End Hot 100 chart in 2016, with “Sorry” securing the number two spot. This made Bieber only the third artist in history, alongside The Beatles (1964) and Usher (2004), to hold the top-two positions of the Billboard Year-End Hot 100. This unparalleled commercial and critical success firmly established *Purpose* as a landmark album, showcasing Justin’s profound growth as an artist.
To support this groundbreaking album, Justin embarked on the monumental Purpose World Tour, kicking off in Seattle, Washington, on March 9, 2016. The tour was a global phenomenon, further cementing his connection with millions of fans worldwide. In January 2016, Bieber also made UK chart history, becoming the first artist to occupy the entire top three of the UK Singles Chart with “Love Yourself,” “Sorry,” and “What Do You Mean?” simultaneously, a testament to his undeniable and widespread global appeal.
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10. **The Expanding Universe of “Purpose” Era Collaborations & Beyond**The *Purpose* era wasn’t just about his solo hits; it was also defined by a series of high-profile collaborations that further diversified Justin’s sound and reached new audiences. On July 22, 2016, he teamed up with EDM trio Major Lazer and Danish singer MØ for the single “Cold Water.” This track debuted at number two on the Billboard Hot 100, making it Bieber’s third number-two debut on the ranking and surpassing Mariah Carey’s record for the artist with the most number-two debuts in the US at the time. His ability to fuse pop with electronic elements proved incredibly potent.
Continuing his exploration of the electronic music landscape, Justin was featured on French DJ DJ Snake’s single “Let Me Love You” in August 2016, which climbed to number four on the Billboard Hot 100. He also ventured into hip-hop, appearing on American rapper Post Malone’s single “Deja Vu” in September 2016, later becoming the fourth single from Malone’s debut studio album, *Stoney*. These collaborations demonstrated his versatility and his keen ear for trending sounds, ensuring his relevance across multiple genres.
Beyond music, Justin’s presence in popular culture remained strong. He appeared in the music video for Carly Rae Jepsen’s single “I Really Like You” in March 2015, showing his playful side. He was also the featured roastee in Comedy Central’s annual roast special and competed on the reality competition series *Lip Sync Battle*, demonstrating his willingness to engage with entertainment in a lighthearted manner. He even filmed an episode for the Fox TV reality series *Knock Knock Live*, though the show was later canceled.
His cultural footprint also extended to more serious documentaries, as he appeared in *Bodyguards: Secret Lives from the Watchtower* in 2016, offering a glimpse into the intense world surrounding global superstars. The critical success of *Purpose* was further recognized at the 59th Annual Grammy Awards, where the album was nominated for Album of the Year and Best Pop Vocal Album, while “Love Yourself” received nominations for Song of the Year and Best Pop Solo Performance. This recognition underscored his significant impact across both commercial and critical spheres.
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11. **A Global Collaboration Phenomenon (2017-2019)**Justin Bieber continued to evolve into a true global collaborator during this period, lending his distinctive voice to tracks that transcended languages and genres, reaching unprecedented levels of international success. His passion for sports also saw him participate in the 2017 NHL Celebrity All-Star Game, coached by none other than Wayne Gretzky, showcasing another facet of his public persona beyond music.
On April 17, 2017, the music world was set ablaze with the release of the remix for Luis Fonsi and Daddy Yankee’s “Despacito,” featuring Justin. This marked his first venture into singing in Spanish, a bold move that paid off immensely. The remix became a worldwide sensation, shattering chart records globally, including reaching number one in the US. It joined “Macarena” (1996) as only the second English/Spanish song to top the Billboard Hot 100, and remarkably tied the record for the most weeks at number one in Billboard Hot 100 history. The track also earned him his first career Latin Grammy and became the most viewed song of all time on Genius, with a staggering 23.3 million views.
Just over a week later, on April 28, 2017, Justin, alongside rappers Quavo, Chance the Rapper, and Lil Wayne, provided vocals on DJ Khaled’s single “I’m the One.” This song debuted at number one on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming Bieber’s second number-one debut and his fourth song to top the chart. In a truly unprecedented move, “Despacito” topped the US charts one week later, making him the first artist in history to notch new number ones in back-to-back weeks, replacing himself at the summit with different songs. “I’m the One” also dominated Billboard’s Hot Rap Songs and Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs charts.
His collaborative streak continued on June 9, 2017, with French DJ David Guetta’s “2U,” another track showcasing his versatile vocal abilities within the EDM genre. However, amid this whirlwind of success, Justin made a significant personal decision, canceling the remaining dates of his Purpose World Tour on July 24, 2017, due to “unforeseen circumstances.” Despite the cancellation, the tour had been a massive success, grossing $257 million and attracting 2.8 million attendees across 162 shows, cementing its place as one of the highest-grossing tours of both 2016 and 2017.
Rounding out this period of intense collaboration, Justin released the single “Friends” with American record producer and songwriter BloodPop on August 17, 2017. The track featured songwriting contributions from Julia Michaels and Justin Tranter, who had previously worked with him on “Sorry” in 2015. At the 60th Annual Grammy Awards, “Despacito” received three nominations, but Justin chose not to attend, stating he would refrain from award show appearances until his next album was complete, underscoring his focus on new music.
12. **More Chart Dominance & Teasing a Return (2018-2019)**The latter half of the 2010s saw Justin Bieber continue his strategic, impactful collaborations while carefully planning his return to solo music. In July 2018, he reunited with DJ Khaled for “No Brainer,” once again featuring Chance the Rapper and Quavo. This single proved another hit, peaking in the top five of the Hot 100 and reaching number one on Billboard’s Hot R&B Songs chart, further solidifying their successful collaborative dynamic. He also appeared in the accompanying music video, showcasing his enduring visual presence.
Fans eagerly anticipated his return to the stage, and Justin delivered a thrilling surprise performance at the 2019 Coachella music festival on April 21. This marked his first live performance in two years and, critically, served as a tease for a new album, sending waves of excitement through his global fanbase. The anticipation for his next solo project began to build almost immediately, demonstrating his ability to command attention even after a hiatus.
On May 10, 2019, Justin joined forces with British singer Ed Sheeran for the single “I Don’t Care,” featured on Sheeran’s *No.6 Collaborations Project*. This partnership was a natural fit, given Sheeran had co-written Bieber’s earlier hits “Love Yourself” and “Cold Water.” “I Don’t Care” became an instant worldwide hit, topping the charts in 26 countries and peaking at number two in the United States, proving the power of their combined star appeal.
His reach extended even further on July 11, when he featured on a remix of Billie Eilish’s breakthrough single “Bad Guy.” This collaboration brought together two of the biggest names in contemporary pop, further cementing his influence across generations of artists. Justin continued his genre-hopping success on October 4, 2019, releasing “10,000 Hours” with country music duo Dan + Shay. This track climbed to number four on the US Billboard Hot 100 and notably became the highest-charting non-holiday country song in the history of the Billboard Streaming Songs chart.
“10,000 Hours” spent an impressive 21 weeks at number one on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart, earning Bieber his second Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance at the 63rd Annual Grammy Awards. As a result of this diverse success, he became the first act in history to reach number one on seven multi-metric charts: Hot 100, Hot Country Songs, Hot Dance/Electronic Songs, Hot Latin Songs, Hot R&B Songs, Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs, and Hot Rap Songs. On October 14, 2019, Justin solidified his enduring chart presence by becoming the youngest solo male artist to spend 200 cumulative weeks in the top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100.
13. **”Changes” & Navigating the COVID-19 Era (2020)**The turn of the new decade marked another full-fledged album cycle for Justin Bieber, ushering in his fifth studio album, *Changes*, and a new concert tour, both announced on December 24, 2019. The album’s first single, “Yummy,” released on January 3, 2020, debuted at number two on the Billboard Hot 100, signaling his strong return to solo material. Alongside this musical comeback, Justin released a trailer for his 10-part YouTube Originals docu-series, *Justin Bieber: Seasons*, on December 31, 2019.
This docu-series offered an intimate look into his life post-hiatus, his marriage, the creation of his new music, and his personal battle against Lyme disease. It resonated deeply with fans, amassing an astounding 32.6 million views within its first week and breaking the record for the most-viewed premiere of all YouTube Originals. On January 28, 2020, on *The Ellen DeGeneres Show*, Justin confirmed *Changes* would drop on Valentine’s Day. He also released the promotional single “Get Me” featuring Kehlani, further building excitement for the album.
“Intentions,” featuring Quavo, was released as the second single from *Changes* on February 7, 2020, climbing to number five on the Billboard Hot 100. When *Changes* officially debuted on February 14, it landed at number one on both the UK and US Billboard 200 charts, a remarkable achievement that made Justin the youngest solo artist to have seven number-one albums in the US. This album showcased a more mature R&B-infused sound, reflecting his personal growth and marital bliss.
As the world grappled with the COVID-19 pandemic, Justin and American singer Ariana Grande released the poignant single “Stuck with U” on May 8, 2020, to raise funds for first responders. The song debuted atop the Billboard Hot 100, becoming his sixth number-one single in the US, demonstrating his ability to create impactful music for a cause. Later in the year, on September 4, he played a starring role in the music video for DJ Khaled’s single “Popstar,” continuing their successful creative partnership.
Justin’s focus on new music continued with the release of “Holy” featuring Chance the Rapper on September 18, 2020, as the first single from his upcoming sixth studio album, peaking at number three on the Billboard Hot 100. This was followed by the introspective “Lonely” in collaboration with Benny Blanco on October 15, which reached number 12. He also featured on a remix of 24kGoldn’s “Mood” with J Balvin and released “Monster” with Shawn Mendes, both in November 2020, consistently delivering new material and expanding his impressive collaborative catalog.
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14. **”Justice” – A Record-Breaking Legacy & Continued Impact (2021-Present)**The year 2021 saw Justin Bieber unleash his sixth studio album, *Justice*, further cementing his legacy as a record-shattering artist and a prominent voice in contemporary pop. Kicking off the year, he released the powerful single “Anyone” on January 1, which peaked at number six on the Billboard Hot 100. On February 14, he partnered with TikTok for “Journals Live,” the first live performance of his 2013 album *Journals*. This groundbreaking event was the platform’s first long-form concert and broke the record for the most-viewed single-artist livestream in TikTok’s history, showcasing his innovative use of digital platforms.
On February 26, 2021, Justin officially announced his sixth studio album, *Justice*, a project that promised to reflect on themes of justice, faith, and connection. The album’s fourth single, “Hold On,” released on March 5, peaked at number 20 on the Billboard Hot 100. The much-anticipated *Justice* album finally dropped on March 19, 2021, accompanied by its fifth single, “Peaches.” The album was met with generally positive reviews and garnered an impressive eight nominations at the 64th Annual Grammy Awards, highlighting its critical success and artistic merit.
*Justice* made an indelible mark on chart history, debuting at number one on the Billboard 200, becoming Bieber’s eighth number-one project. Simultaneously, “Peaches” debuted atop the Billboard Hot 100, becoming his seventh number-one single. This extraordinary double debut made Justin the youngest solo artist to attain eight US number-one albums, breaking a 56-year-old record held by Elvis Presley. He also became the first solo male artist to simultaneously debut a song and an album at number one in the US, and the first male act to have his first six studio albums debut at number one on the Billboard 200.
Further demonstrating his spiritual and artistic depth, Justin surprise-released *Freedom*, a gospel-inspired EP consisting of six songs, on Easter 2021. This unexpected offering showcased a deeply personal side of his artistry. His collaborative prowess continued to shine with “Stay,” featuring The Kid Laroi, released on May 10, 2021, which became his eighth US number-one single, solidifying his enduring ability to deliver massive hits.
Justin Bieber’s journey from a young YouTube sensation to a Grammy-winning, record-breaking global pop icon is truly extraordinary. With over 150 million units sold worldwide and five diamond certifications from the RIAA, his commercial success is undeniable. His accolades, including two Grammy Awards, one Latin Grammy Award, eight Juno Awards, two Brit Awards, 26 Billboard Music Awards, 18 American Music Awards, and 22 MTV Europe Music Awards (the most wins for any artist), speak volumes about his critical recognition. He was named one of the 100 most influential people in the world by *Time* in 2011, listed among the top ten most powerful celebrities by *Forbes* from 2011 to 2013, and ranked the eighth-greatest pop star of the 21st century by Billboard. And with future albums *Swag* and *Swag II* slated for 2025, it’s clear his story is far from over.
His evolution is a testament to resilience, talent, and the unwavering support that has underpinned his incredible career. Through every triumph and challenge, the love and prayers of his mother, Pattie Mallette, have undoubtedly been a guiding light, a constant reminder of the foundation from which his extraordinary journey began and continues to inspire millions around the globe.
