Hailey Bieber sparked buzz on Instagram after Scooter Braun, Justin Bieber’s former manager, praised Justin’s surprise album release. Find out more in the article below.
Shortly after Braun’s statement, fans noticed Hailey posting an Instagram Story: a close-up selfie with exaggerated eyes giving a side-eye expression, overlaid with Mariah Carey’s “Obsessed.” Though she didn’t mention Braun by name, many interpreted this as a pointed, tongue-in-cheek reaction. Social media users noted the timing and tone, with one fan quipping,
“HAILEY SAID YOU’RE OBSESSED SCOOTER LMFAOOO.”
This past Saturday, TMZ broke the news that Justin agreed to pay Braun $26 million—covering losses from his canceled 2022 Justice tour—plus an additional $5.5 million in unpaid commissions, totaling $31.5 million. While Braun insisted in his Instagram Story that there were no hard feelings, Hailey’s playful—yet pointed—reaction suggests lingering tensions beneath the surface.
The Journey to Swag: Freedom and Raw Authenticity
Swag marks Justin Bieber’s seventh studio album, released as a surprise on July 11, 2025—his first solo LP in four years. The 21-track collection reflects his growth as an artist and as a person. Justin gained full creative control after splitting professionally with Braun in 2023. This break allowed him to pursue a more stripped-down, live-instrument, and emotionally honest approach. He collaborated with a few trusted musicians, blending R&B, pop, soul, and experimental styles. Collaborators on the album include Gunna, Sexyy Red, Cash Cobain, and comedian Druski, who features in spoken interludes. The album spans genres from reggae and gospel to acoustic soul, closing with a gospel track by Marvin Winans, symbolizing a more introspective chapter.
Themes: Marriage, Mental Health, Family
Bieber’s lyrics in Swag delve deep into his personal life—touching on marriage difficulties, mental health struggles, and public scrutiny. Tracks like “Walking Away” describe marital tensions paired with devotion, while “Daisies” evokes an intimate, vulnerable atmosphere. Billboard’s Lyndsey Havens described “Daisies” as “intimate… Bieber has never sounded more real, “Go Baby” is a celebration of his love for Hailey, countering persistent rumors about their relationship. There’s also an authentic exploration of his mental health—particularly in a track named “Therapy Session”—where he acknowledges the toll of fame, and the complexities of family life, including fatherhood to his son Jack (born August 2024).
Public and Personal Response
Hailey hasn’t just reacted to Scooter Braun digitally—she’s been a vocal supporter throughout Swag’s creation, encouraging Justin to embrace his vision. According to a source, she “stood by Justin throughout the entire creative process,” helping him trust himself as an artist. Their united front continued as they celebrated the album’s release with affectionate public appearances, including a European yacht vacation that showcased their bond.
Scooter Braun himself—despite their financial settlement—offered proud words, praising the album’s authenticity and emotional resonance.
What This All Means
In releasing Swag, Justin Bieber has turned a page artistically: embracing full creative control, reflecting on personal struggles, and reaffirming his love for Hailey. The album is widely considered his most vulnerable and genuine to date. Hailey’s Instagram reaction to Braun’s praise, meanwhile, hints at a playful yet pointed assertion of loyalty—signaling that while business ties may shift, their personal alliance remains strong.
