Usher started his career as a teen sensation, so it's no wonder that he saw something special a few years ago in his protégé Justin Bieber, who is now a worldwide star. In a joint interview with Billboard, the chart toppers, who have a 15-year age difference, share what makes their relationship special.
On growing musically
Bieber: "I don't want to lose my young fans, but I also want to mature and develop. I always keep one foot out of my comfort zone, trying new things and experimenting—if you don't, people will get bored."
Usher: "I'm happy that Justin knows that without me even saying that. You really do want to make sure that you bring along fans that have always been there, but make sure that you grow and chart new territory."
On the most outrageous gossip they've read
Usher: "That Justin had a baby—that was hilarious! It was like the Billie Jean story happening all over again. I remember being like, 'Yo, I told you be careful!'"
Bieber: "The craziest thing I heard about Usher was just a few weeks ago there was an #RIPUsher hash tag on Twitter."
What they learn from each other
Bieber: "Usher's always told me, 'You need to work hard, but also play hard. Strive to be the best, but have fun doing it.'"
Usher: "He keeps me on my feet. The one thing I do see in him is the passion and the determination to really tell an incredible story and articulate himself as an artist."
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