Scooter Braun, a prominent figure in the music industry known for managing artists like Ariana Grande, Justin Bieber, and Demi Lovato, has announced his retirement from managing artists after 23 years. Braun shared a reflective statement on Instagram, expressing gratitude for the opportunities he has had in working with talented individuals. He mentioned shifting his focus towards his family and his role as CEO of HYBE America, marking the end of his chapter as a music manager.
Braun is most recognized for his work in elevating artists like Justin Bieber from YouTube talents to global superstars. He has also collaborated with a diverse range of artists including Carly Rae Jepsen, J Balvin, Dan + Shay, and Tori Kelly, among others. However, his reputation as a star-maker was overshadowed by controversy in 2019 when he acquired the rights to Taylor Swift’s first six albums, leading to a public feud between the two. Swift accused Braun of bullying and manipulation, prompting her to pursue re-recording her albums to regain ownership of her music.
The ongoing drama with Taylor Swift caused Braun to reflect on his approach in handling conflicts and public perception. He acknowledged feeling that his efforts to take the moral high ground may have led to confusion about his character in recent years. Despite the challenges, Braun was able to sell Swift’s early catalog to Shamrock Capital for $300 million, and later sell his investment group, Ithaca Holdings, to HYBE for $1.05 billion, establishing a significant financial milestone in his career.
Speculation about Braun’s clients, including Bieber, Grande, and Lovato, wanting to part ways with him began circulating last summer. Reports indicated that Braun had been considering stepping away from the management space for some time. Amidst the rumors, Braun humorously addressed the situation on social media, revealing that he was no longer managing himself. This marked a transitional period for Braun as he prepared to exit the music management industry and shift his focus towards other ventures.
Braun’s impact on the music industry has been significant, with his contributions to the careers of various artists leaving a lasting legacy. As he bids farewell to managing artists, Braun expressed gratitude for the experiences and opportunities he has had in the entertainment industry. His decision to retire reflects a desire to prioritize his personal life and responsibilities as a CEO, marking a new chapter in his professional journey. While his departure may signal the end of an era in music management, Braun’s influence and achievements will continue to resonate within the industry for years to come.
