Why The World Needs Justin Bieber

Why certain celebrity icons are of such importance to so many

Justin Bieber has arguably had one of the most successful careers in the music industry of any of his compatriots. At only 25, his career has already spanned a generation and the release of his fifth studio album, Changes, on the 14th of February seems to indicate he’s not planning on slowing down just yet.

Changes/Def Jam Recordings and RBMG

I’m not a Bieber fan. Let’s get that out the way now. His music isn’t to my liking, it’s that simple. However, I am able to recognise his immense talent and dedication to his art for what they are. An example, that many should and do, choose to emulate.

Bieber’s career has not been without controversy and we’ve lived through these ups and downs with him. We’ve been active observers of the child growing into the man and all the troubles that accompany this process.

Millions have identified with him because of it and his tendency to turn openly to social media to express himself and share his issues with his millions of followers, only endears him more.

He is is human, he is fallible and he is flawed. A large portion of his popularity stems from his public acknowledgement of this. He’s unique in many ways, a child prodigy that matured in the full glare of the media’s spotlight.

One of the most searched people on Google and most followed on social media, the price he has paid for his fame has come at the expense of his privacy. There has been very little private space for the boy to grow into the man.

Unlike other stars, Bieber has embraced this. His life has, since being discovered in 2008, been a jointly owned project. Partly owned by him and partly owned by his fans and the media.

Unlike many of his peers who choose to project a persona, with Bieber, what you see is what you get. Yes, he’s had problems, some serious, others less so, but he has demonstrated an unwavering ability to rise above them and continue doing what his fans expect of him. To make music.

Don’t underestimate the effect this continued example has on many younger people. Other troubled teenagers and young adolescents are able to draw hope from his personal victories. We live to emulate our heroes and what better than a flawed one. One who succeeds despite the flaws.

Despite open criticism from many, including a petition drawn up and signed by over 270 ooo Americans, seeking to have him deported (he is Canadian by birth), Bieber has managed to weather the storms surrounding his personal life and drive his career forward.