Fans Question Scooter Braun’s Praise for Justin Bieber’s New Album Amid Settlement Settlement

A Look at the Complex Business History Between Bieber and Braun

Recent comments from Scooter Braun praising Justin Bieber’s latest album, Swag, sparked criticism among fans, especially since the album was released just after Bieber and Braun finalized a substantial financial settlement. Braun described the album as “the most authentic Bieber to date,” highlighting its raw, heartfelt nature and Bieber’s artistic growth. However, many fans viewed Braun’s praise as insincere or self-serving, given their long-standing and sometimes tense history.

The controversy was further fueled when Bieber’s wife, Hailey, shared an Instagram Story with a playful side-eye selfie accompanied by Mariah Carey’s “Obsessed,” which fans interpreted as a subtle jab at Braun. The timing coincides with the recent $26 million Bieber paid Braun to settle a dispute following Bieber’s 2022 Justice tour cancellation, plus an extra $5.5 million covering unpaid commissions.

Background of Bieber and Braun’s Partnership

Scooter Braun discovered Bieber in 2007 via YouTube, leading to his signing with Raymond Braun Media Group in 2008. Over the years, Bieber’s involvement deepened, contributing to launches of artists like Madison Beer and Carly Rae Jepsen. During Bieber’s public struggles from 2013 to 2014, Braun publicly defended him amidst controversies and legal issues, including arrests and reckless behavior.

In 2016, Braun threatened to quit if Bieber performed at a politically associated event, and Bieber later publicly thanked Braun in 2020 for his support. However, by 2023, their relationship had deteriorated, with Bieber’s management shifting and Braun’s departure from his management role announced in 2024, calling Bieber’s success “an honor.”

In 2025, Bieber unfollowed Braun, and reports emerged of financial disputes and overpaid commissions. Braun acknowledged on a podcast that their relationship was no longer the same, coinciding with Bieber’s release of Swag, his first album independent of Braun’s influence. A source indicated Bieber’s desire for independence has led to a more authentic musical expression than ever before.