Justin Bieber Announces New Album, Set for July 11 Release Amidst Career and Personal Transformations
A new era for Justin Bieber is on the horizon. Def Jam Recordings will release the pop superstar’s seventh studio album on Friday, July 11, marking his first full-length project since 2021’s Justice. The announcement comes as Bieber navigates significant changes in both his personal life and professional career.
A Return to the Studio and Hints of a New Sound
Bieber reportedly spent time in Iceland in late April finalizing the album, engaging in collaborative “jam sessions” with a diverse group of musicians. “He headed to Iceland…to put finishing touches on the project,” an insider revealed, adding that the trip allowed Bieber to “vibe out” with collaborators. The creative process appears to have been fruitful, with recent social media activity suggesting the album is nearing completion.
Intriguing clues about the album’s direction have emerged online. A billboard featuring Bieber with the word “Swag” began circulating on social media on Thursday, appearing in both Iceland and Los Angeles, potentially hinting at the album’s title. Bieber himself has fueled speculation, posting photos and videos that appear to reveal the album’s tracklist. Further evidence suggests a polished final product, with images showcasing a final mix in ProTools and completed stereo files.
Collaborative Spirit and Rising Talent
The upcoming album boasts a compelling roster of featured artists, including Gunna, Sexyy Red, and Cash Cobain, all of whom Bieber has acknowledged on social media in recent months. Beyond established names, Bieber has also embraced emerging talent, discovering and collaborating with artists like U.K. singer-songwriter Sekou and producer Dylan Wiggins – known for his work with Kali Uchis and The Weeknd – through direct messages on social media. He also worked with his longtime DJ Tay James, musical director HARV, SZA collaborator Carter Lang, and Australian artist Eddie Benjamin during jam sessions at his Los Angeles home.
Navigating Change: Family, Management, and Financial Restructuring
This album arrives at a pivotal moment in Bieber’s life. The past four years have brought significant personal changes, including the birth of his child with wife Hailey Bieber last year. Simultaneously, Bieber underwent a professional shift, parting ways with his longtime manager, Scooter Braun, in 2023. Braun recently stepped down as CEO of Hybe America earlier this month.
The separation from Braun also involved resolving complex financial matters stemming from the cancellation of Bieber’s Justice tour in 2022. According to reports, Bieber owed more than $20 million to AEG after receiving a $40 million advance for the tour but failing to fulfill his contractual obligations. Braun’s company covered the debt through a loan. The two were also partners in a record label and film projects.
Furthermore, Braun was instrumental in a $200 million catalog deal for Bieber’s songwriting interests with Hipgnosis Songs (now Recognition Music), representing a substantial financial asset for the artist. Notably, Hailey Bieber’s recent sale of her Rhode Beauty skincare brand to e.l.f. Beauty for $1 billion also saw Braun as an early investor.
The release of this new album marks not only a return to music for Justin Bieber but also a testament to his resilience and adaptability as he navigates a new chapter in his life and career.
