Music Mega-Manager Faces Exodus of Clients Amidst Controversy
Music mega-manager Scooter Braun is experiencing a wave of client departures as several stars reportedly sever ties with his services. Braun, known for launching the careers of pop icons like Justin Bieber and Ariana Grande, has been embroiled in controversy since 2019 when Taylor Swift publicly criticized him for his actions. Swift accused Braun of being a “bully” and the embodiment of toxic male privilege in the music industry.
One of the main sources of contention between Braun and Swift was his acquisition of the master recordings of her first six studio albums. Swift had expressed interest in purchasing the masters herself, but Braun bought them instead and later sold them to an investment fund for a reported sum of over $300 million. In response, Swift embarked on a mission to re-record her albums in order to regain control over her music and its profits.
The reasons behind Braun’s recent client departures remain unclear, although sources have suggested that his decision to step back from day-to-day management and focus on his role as CEO of HYBE America may be a contributing factor. HYBE America is the South Korean entertainment company responsible for the global success of K-pop group BTS. None of the stars who have left Braun’s management have publicly commented on their decisions.
Among the clients who have reportedly left Braun’s management is Idina Menzel, known for her musical achievements and the hit song “Let It Go” from Disney’s Frozen. Menzel had announced her collaboration with Braun in 2019 through a social media post, sharing a photo of the two together.
Demi Lovato, another artist who had joined Braun’s management in 2019, is also said to be seeking new representation. Lovato expressed her excitement about working with Braun on Instagram, describing him as her dream manager.
Colombian superstar J Balvin was another client who parted ways with Braun earlier this year. Balvin signed with Jay-Z’s Roc Nation after leaving Braun’s management. Roc Nation praised Balvin’s ambition to inspire other Latinos and emphasized his work ethic and creativity.
Recent reports have indicated that Ariana Grande, who has been with Braun for a decade, may also be moving on from their professional relationship. While sources close to Braun deny these rumors, insiders have confirmed to People magazine that Grande is ready for a new direction in her career.
Justin Bieber, who has been with Braun for 16 years, faced similar rumors of a separation. Representatives for both Bieber and Braun have refuted these claims, stating that negotiations regarding contracts are ongoing. Braun’s team at SB Projects continues to handle both Bieber and Ariana Grande as they navigate the changes in their working relationship.
It remains to be seen how Braun will address the departure of his clients and adapt to the shifting dynamics within the music industry.
