Scooter Braun Announces Retirement from Music Management After 23 Years

Scooter Braun, the renowned music manager, announced on Instagram that he is retiring from music management after a 23-year career but will remain as CEO of HYBE America, the South Korean entertainment conglomerate behind BTS. This announcement follows a series of high-profile client departures, including Justin Bieber, Ariana Grande, and Demi Lovato, last year.

In his Instagram post, Braun reflected on his career, stating, "After 23 years, this chapter as a music manager has come to an end. It's a strange feeling because I think I have wanted this for a while, but I was truly afraid to answer the question 'Who would I be without them?' I was really just 19 years old when I started. And for 20 years, I loved it." Braun highlighted a shift in his priorities, noting that as his children grew older and his personal life faced challenges, he realized the importance of being present for his family. "The sacrifices I was once willing to make I could no longer justify," he added.

Braun revealed that his decision to step away from management has been in the making for two years, culminating in a pivotal moment last summer when a major client and friend expressed a desire to pursue a new direction. Instead of feeling hurt, Braun saw it as a sign to embark on a new chapter. He expressed gratitude towards his clients, including Grande, Bieber, Lovato, Tori Kelly, Carly Rae Jepsen, and Dan + Shay, acknowledging the profound impact they have had on his life. "I have nothing but love for those I have worked with over the years," Braun wrote, pledging to continue supporting them in different capacities.

Despite rumors of turmoil in his career, particularly following reports of Grande and Lovato leaving his management and alleged conflicts with Bieber, Braun maintained that all his clients are under contract and that negotiations have been ongoing as he transitions into his role as HYBE America CEO. "There has been a lot said about what is happening in our company… and in my career," he continued. "When we had success, I smiled, and when we were attacked, I tried to always take the high road. But for the last three years, I have begun to feel that taking the high road has created confusion and ambiguity as to who we are."

Braun's career has been marked by significant achievements, particularly his role in discovering and managing Justin Bieber for 16 years. However, his public feud with Taylor Swift over the acquisition of her master recordings remains a notable controversy. Swift criticized Braun's purchase of her first six albums' master recordings in a deal worth over $300 million, leading her to re-record her original music. Braun expressed regret over Swift's reaction, describing the situation as "very confusing and not based on anything factual."

In closing his announcement, Braun said he "will cherish every moment" of his career in music management, indicating a profound appreciation for his journey and the relationships he built along the way.

Why This Matters: Scooter Braun's retirement marks the end of an era in music management. His influence has shaped the careers of some of the biggest names in the industry, and his departure will undoubtedly lead to significant shifts within the music world.

Key Takeaways:

• Scooter Braun is retiring from music management after 23 years.
• He will continue as CEO of HYBE America.
• His decision follows the departure of major clients like Justin Bieber, Ariana Grande, and Demi Lovato.
• Braun emphasizes a shift in priorities towards his family.
• Despite past controversies, Braun expresses gratitude and support for his former clients.