On Friday, Justin Bieber released his highly anticipated seventh studio album, titled “SWAG”. This album marks a significant milestone in the 31-year-old singer's career, as it delves deep into his personal life, addressing topics such as his recent marriage struggles and ongoing battles with mental health. The album, distributed by Def Jam, features a diverse collection of 21 tracks, showcasing collaborations with notable artists including Sexyy Red, Dijon, Lil B, Gunna, Cash Cobain, 2 Chainz, and comedian Druski.
“SWAG” comes four years after Bieber's previous album, “Justice”, which was released in 2021. The complete tracklist includes:
All I Can Take Daisies Yukon Go Baby Things You Do Butterflies Way It Is First Place Soulful Walking Away Glory Voice Memo Devotion Dadz Love Therapy Session Sweet Spot Standing on Business 405 Swag Zuma House Too Long ForgivenessOne of the standout tracks, “Walking Away”, appears to reflect Bieber's feelings regarding his marriage to Hailey Bieber, founder of the Rhode skincare brand. In the poignant lyrics, he sings, “Days go by so fast, don’t wanna spend them with you / So tell me why you’re throwing stones at my back / You know I’m defenseless.” These lines suggest a moment of vulnerability as he navigates the complexities of their relationship.
Nevertheless, Bieber's lyrics also convey a deep love for Hailey, affirming their commitment despite rumors of marital issues. He passionately sings, “Baby, I ain’t walking away / You were my diamond / Gave you a ring / I made you a promise.” This juxtaposition of love and struggle encapsulates the essence of his new album.
In another track titled “Standing on Business”, Justin references a viral incident with paparazzi where he asserted, “I’m a dad. I’m a husband. You’re not getting it.” This 50-second conversational piece, featuring Druski, adds a layer of authenticity as Bieber navigates the pressures of fame while trying to maintain his family life.
In April, reports surfaced that Bieber traveled to Iceland to finalize the album. An insider revealed that he aimed to “vibe out” and immerse himself in the creative process. Shortly before the album's release, a striking black-and-white billboard featuring Bieber and the word “SWAG” was spotted in Iceland, generating buzz among fans.
As the album launch approached, Bieber shared glimpses of his family life on Instagram, posting heartwarming photos with Hailey and their 10-month-old son, Jack. These images showcased intimate moments, including Bieber supporting Hailey and their son, reinforcing the importance of family amidst the challenges they face.
Since releasing his debut album, “My World 2.0”, in 2010, Bieber has achieved remarkable success in the music industry. His hit EDM track, “Where Are Ü Now”, won him a Grammy Award, while his remix of “Despacito” earned him a Latin Grammy Award. Over his career, he has amassed an impressive collection of awards, including 26 Billboard Music Awards and 18 American Music Awards.
In 2023, Bieber made headlines by parting ways with his longtime manager, Scooter Braun, who had been instrumental in his rise to fame since discovering him at age 13. Although rumors circulated about their fallout, representatives for both parties have downplayed the situation. In recent months, Bieber also faced financial challenges, which were highlighted in a documentary revealing his decision to sell his music catalog for $200 million in December 2022.
With the release of “SWAG”, Bieber received support from his friend and fellow artist, Kid Laroi, who encouraged fans to listen to the album. Bieber's heartfelt response, “Love you broski,” showcased the camaraderie within the music industry.
As Bieber continues to navigate his personal and professional life, his new album is a testament to his resilience and growth. With themes of love, struggle, and self-reflection, “SWAG” promises to resonate with fans and solidify Bieber's legacy in the music world.
