Scooter Braun, the renowned music manager, has officially announced his retirement from talent management after an illustrious 23-year career. The 42-year-old entrepreneur revealed his decision in a heartfelt Instagram post, emphasizing his desire to focus on his family and his role as CEO of HYBE America.
Braun, who began his career at the age of 19, has managed some of the biggest names in the music industry, including Justin Bieber, Ariana Grande, Demi Lovato, and many others. His journey in the music world started when he discovered a young Justin Bieber on YouTube in 2008, a move that would catapult both their careers to new heights.
In his lengthy Instagram statement, Braun reflected on his career, stating, “23 years ago, a 19-year-old kid started managing an artist named Cato in Atlanta, GA, and my journey began. 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.”
Braun’s decision to step back from management was influenced by his growing responsibilities as a father. He shared, “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 announcement comes after a year of speculation and reports that several of Braun’s high-profile clients, including Ariana Grande and Demi Lovato, were seeking new representation. Despite these changes, Braun expressed his gratitude for the artists he has worked with, saying, “Every client I have had the privilege of working with has changed my life, and I know many of them are just beginning to see the success they deserve. I will cheer for every single one of them.”
Braun’s career has not been without controversy. He is well-known for his feud with Taylor Swift, which began in 2019 when he acquired her former record label, Big Machine, for $300 million. This purchase gave him control over the master recordings of Swift’s first six albums, leading to a public dispute between the two. Swift responded by re-recording her old material to reclaim ownership, further devaluing the originals.
Despite the challenges, Braun’s impact on the music industry is undeniable. He played a pivotal role in the careers of many artists, helping them achieve global success. Reflecting on his achievements, Braun wrote, “It was this past Christmas Day when Ariana [Grande] and Justin [Bieber] became the biggest male and female in the history of the Spotify Billions club that I just smiled and thought ‘what a ride.’ Justin and Ariana were both young teenagers when I began with them. To see them both come up to be the legends they are today will forever be one of my greatest honors.”
As Braun transitions into his role as CEO of HYBE America, he expressed his confidence in the future of his management company, SB Projects. Allison Kaye and Jen McDaniel, top executives at SB Projects, will now lead the company. Braun praised their capabilities, stating, “These two incredibly powerful women will now step into a role that I know will grow into the most impressive women-led management business our industry has ever seen.”
Braun’s retirement marks the end of an era in the music industry. His influence and contributions have left an indelible mark on the careers of many artists and the industry as a whole. As he steps into his new role, Braun remains committed to supporting the artists he has worked with, stating, “I will continue to root for them with the same passion that I did at each of their humble beginnings.”
In his closing remarks, Braun shared a piece of wisdom from iconic Motown executive Berry Gordy, who told him, “Young man, it never ends the way you wanted, but it doesn’t mean it didn’t happen.” Reflecting on this, Braun said, “That wisdom has proven to be correct. I never saw how this chapter would end, hell, I never even saw it happening. But it did. And I will cherish every moment of it. I made my plan… but it turns out I like God’s plan better. Cheers!”
As Scooter Braun embarks on this new chapter, the music industry bids farewell to a manager who has shaped the careers of some of its biggest stars. His legacy will undoubtedly continue to influence the industry for years to come.
