Justin Bieber’s ‘Swag’ album hides details fans might have missed on first listen

Justin Bieber’s 'Swag' includes subtle emotional moments and artistic nods that reveal deeper layers of meaning.

Justin Bieber’s seventh studio album Swag may have dropped with little notice, but behind its 21-track lineup lies a carefully layered project filled with overlooked personal and creative details.

While fans were quick to praise collaborations with Druski, Sexyy Red, Lil B, and more, it’s the subtle elements that deepen the album’s emotional weight.

On "Devotion", Dijon joins Bieber on a delicate track that fans may recognise from a private moment—Bieber used it in a video revealing his wife Hailey's pregnancy with their son, Jack Blues. That quiet placement transforms the song into a personal milestone in the singer’s journey.

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Hailey Rhode Bieber (@haileybieber)

Then there’s "Yukon", where Eminem is credited as a composer lyricist. Though subtle, his influence adds a surprising lyrical complexity to the track marking a rare connection between two generations of artists.

Meanwhile, the album artwork shot by Renell Medrano, mirrors the stylistic choices from Kendrick Lamar’s Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers, creating a visual link between the two artists’ projects.

Justin Bieber's newest album 'SWAG', is shot by renowned photographer Renell Medrano.

The same photographer for Kendrick Lamar's "Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers album.

Her work speaks to finding vulnerability and common humanity within her subjects. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/MZ3BTjNc0h

— King Kendrick (@missprivelove) July 11, 2025

Additionally, some fans also noticed parallels between the album artwork for Swag and the photos of Bieber from Teen Vogue's May 2014 interview.

The reference it’s crazy
Justin Bieber x Teen Vogue 2013
Justin Bieber 2025 pic.twitter.com/TELP2BDhLm

— Sara (@badassizzle) July 10, 2025

On "Butterflies", Bieber samples a viral moment where he was heard yelling at paparazzi: “Money, money, money, money, money. Get outta here bro. Money, that's all you want.” The inclusion of that raw exchange underscores the singer’s long-standing frustration with fame and public intrusion.

Justin sampled this on butterflies 🤣 #SWAG pic.twitter.com/raBRdZbcKB

— MUSIC MOOSE (@MusicMooseent) July 11, 2025

Beyond the surface pop-R&B appeal, Swag showcases a rich mix of emotion, nostalgia, and creative risk, revealing a more vulnerable side of Bieber’s artistry.