Justin Bieber is stepping into a new chapter of his life and career with the release of Swag, his first solo album in more than four years. The 31-year-old Grammy-winning artist has been eagerly awaiting the public’s reaction to this highly personal project, which marks a significant milestone for him both personally and professionally.
A Milestone in Bieber’s Career
According to an exclusive source for PEOPLE, Swag represents much more than just new music for Bieber. “This album is a huge milestone for Justin in so many ways,” the source explained. “It’s the first solo album he’s released since becoming a father, and it’s the first time he’s produced sound that’s all his own.”
The album’s release marks a pivotal moment in Bieber’s career, as it’s the first time he has had full creative control over his music, and it holds deep emotional significance.
The album comes after Bieber welcomed his first child, son Jack Blues, with wife Hailey Baldwin Bieber in August 2024. The arrival of his son has shaped both his personal life and his music, with the source revealing that fatherhood has played a key role in the creation of the album.
Bieber’s Excitement and Nervousness
Though the excitement for Swag is evident, Bieber admitted that he felt a bit nervous leading up to the release. “He wanted it to be perfect, and he’s so happy with how it turned out,” the source shared.
Despite the nerves, Bieber is reportedly incredibly proud of this new chapter and is eager to share his creation with the world. “He’s really proud of this accomplishment and thrilled for the next chapter,” the source added.
The Sound of Swag: Personal and Vulnerable
The 21-song album blends R&B, pop, and experimental production, all while leaning into Bieber’s signature vocal style. Described as his most personal album to date, Swag features collaborations with artists such as Gunna, Sexxy Red, Cash Cobain, Lil B, and Eddie Benjamin.
A source close to Bieber shared that Swag is designed to be “darker, more vulnerable and less polished” than his previous work, but clarified that it’s “in no way depressing.”
It’s clear that the album represents an artistic shift for Bieber, with more raw and intimate themes at its core. The source also noted that Jack, his 10-month-old son, was central to the heart of Swag, emphasizing how fatherhood has shaped the music.
Bieber’s Low Profile and Creative Process
While fans have seen little of Bieber in public over the past few months, the artist has been busy working quietly on his music. The source confirmed that Bieber has kept a relatively low profile, making only a few public appearances, but behind the scenes, he’s been intentionally focused on his work in the studio.
Now that Swag is out in the world, Bieber seems poised to step fully back into the spotlight, this time with a fresh perspective on both his music and his public life.
With the release of Swag, Justin Bieber is confidently stepping back into the music scene after a hiatus and a new chapter in his personal life.
The album showcases a more vulnerable, personal side of Bieber than fans have heard in the past, and it’s clear that fatherhood has influenced his creative process. As Swag begins to resonate with fans, Bieber is ready for what’s next in this new phase of his career.
