Scooter Braun retires from artist management after 23 years

Scooter Braun, renowned music manager responsible for catapulting talents like Justin Bieber and Ariana Grande to superstardom, has announced his retirement from talent management after a prolific 23-year career. 

At 42, Braun is stepping back to prioritize his role as CEO of entertainment giant HYBE America and, more importantly, as a father.

In a detailed 1,400-word statement on his Instagram, Braun shared that his decision came after introspection prompted by a major client's desire to "spread their wings and go in a new direction." 

Though he didn't specify, this revelation follows reports from last year that high-profile clients like Grande and Bieber were severing ties with him.

Braun's journey began in 2008 when he discovered a 12-year-old Bieber on YouTube, leading to a record deal co-formed with Usher. 

His roster expanded over the years to include industry heavyweights such as Demi Lovato, David Guetta, and Carly Rae Jepsen. 

However, despite his success, Braun expressed a shift in priorities, stating, "As my children got older, and my personal life took some hits, I came to the realization that my kids were three superstars I wasn't willing to lose. The sacrifices I was once willing to make I could no longer justify."

The music mogul is also known for his contentious acquisition of Taylor Swift's former label, Big Machine, in 2019 for $300 million through his investment group, Ithaca Holdings. 

This move, which gave him control of Swift's first six albums' masters, ignited a high-profile feud with Swift, impacting his business as Swift began re-recording her catalog.

Now, stepping into a new chapter, Braun is focused on leading HYBE America to new heights and dedicating time to his family, reinforcing his shift from a 24/7 manager to a father and executive.