After 23 transformative years, the influential yet controversial music manager, Scooter Braun, steps back from managing artists to focus on his role as CEO of Hybe America and his personal life.
- Jun 18, 2024
AceShowbiz - Scooter Braun, who catapulted Justin Bieber to global fame and managed top artists like Ariana Grande and Demi Lovato, has officially announced his retirement from artist management. Braun will now dedicate his efforts to his role as CEO of Hybe America, an offshoot of the South Korean entertainment giant Hybe Corporation, and focus on his family responsibilities.
"23 years. 23 years. That's how long I have been a music manager," Braun reflected in a 1,400-word statement. "Along the way I have had so many experiences I could never have dreamt of. I have been blessed to have had a 'Forrest Gump'-like life while witnessing and taking part in the journeys of some of the most extraordinarily talented people the world has ever seen. I'm constantly pinching myself and asking 'how did I get here?'"
According to Braun, the transition had been on his mind for some time, but the decisive moment came last summer when "one of my biggest clients and friends told me that they wanted to spread their wings and go in a new direction."
While he did not explicitly name the client, many speculate it to be Ariana Grande. "Instead of being hurt, I saw it as a sign. You see, life doesn't hand you YOUR plan, it hands you GOD's plan," Braun noted.
He began his management career at just 19 with artist Asher Roth and soon amassed a roster of high-profile clients, including Ariana Grande, Carly Rae Jepsen, Psy, Lil Dicky, Tori Kelly, Demi Lovato, J Balvin, Quavo, Zac Brown, Martin Garrix, David Guetta, Steve Angello, producer Andrew Watt, YG, Kid Laroi, Dan + Shay, and longtime business partner Usher.
Over the years, Braun also faced significant controversies, notably his acquisition of Taylor Swift's early albums in 2018, which led to public feuds and social media backlash.
Braun's personal life has also influenced his decision. Following a challenging 2021, which included a high-profile divorce, he emphasized his desire to spend more time with his children. "The sacrifices I was once willing to make I could no longer justify. It was time to step into a new role," he explained.
Despite stepping back from artist management, Braun remains a pivotal figure in the music industry through Hybe America and other ventures. He praised Alison Kaye and Jenn McDaniel, who will lead the management company going forward.
In his statement, Braun concluded, "There has been a lot said about what is happening in our company... and in my career. When we had success, I smiled, and when we were attacked, I tried to always take the high road."
