Scooter Braun, a well-known music manager in the industry, announced his retirement from managing some of the industry’s biggest stars in order to fully embrace his role as CEO of Hybe America and to spend more time with his children. This decision comes after headlines last year revealed that his firm had parted ways with singers Demi Lovato and Idina Menzel, and there were speculations about his relationships with Justin Bieber and Ariana Grande. Braun stated that a conversation with a client last year was the final push for him to make the decision to retire, after more than 20 years in the music management industry. Braun’s investment firm, Ithaca Holdings, merged with Hybe America in 2021 offering him the position to head the U.S. operations.
Braun cited an unsustainable work-life balance as a reason for his retirement, particularly pointing out how his family life had suffered as a result of his constant availability for his clients 24/7 with no days off. Braun and his former wife, Yael Cohen, filed for divorce in 2021, and as his children grew older, he realized that his kids were the true superstars he couldn’t afford to lose. This realization led him to step away from his role as a music manager and focus more on his family. He expressed excitement about the opportunity to help Hybe grow and invest in new talent as CEO, while also reflecting on the growth and success of Bieber and Grande who he managed since they were children.
Despite stepping down as a manager, Braun’s firm will continue to manage clients with Allison Kaye and Jennifer McDaniels leading the company in his absence. He mentioned that he will always support Bieber and Grande from the sidelines as they continue to make significant strides in their careers, and he looks forward to seeing them achieve even greater success in the future. Grande’s spokesperson confirmed that she will be managed by Good World Management moving forward while expressing excitement about continuing their long-standing business partnership with Braun. Braun expressed his continued support and passion for his former clients as they navigate their careers without his direct management.
Overall, Braun’s decision to retire from music management marks the end of a significant chapter in his career, but he is eager to embrace his new role as CEO of Hybe America and invest in new talent. Despite the challenges and sacrifices he made as a music manager, Braun acknowledged the importance of prioritizing his family and personal well-being moving forward. With new leadership at his firm, Braun is confident that his former clients will continue to thrive in their careers, and he will continue to support them in any way he can. His legacy as a music manager will be remembered through the success of the artists he helped nurture and develop over the years.
