Scooter Braun announces retirement from music management after Taylor Swift feud

Scooter Braun has announced his retirement from music management after 23 years. The entrepreneur, who hails from New York, said he was stepping down to dedicate his time to being a dad and focus on performing his duties as the CEO of Hybe America.

Rumours swirled last year several high-profile clients of Braun, such as popstars Ariana Grande and Justin Bieber, had chosen to sever their professional relationships with him. In a reflective post on Instagram, Braun declared: "23 years. That's how long I have been a music manager."

The 42-year-old's management style came under intense scrutiny in 2019 following a public dispute with Taylor Swift, which erupted after he acquired her early album recordings through the purchase of her former label. The masters have since been acquired by investment firm Shamrock Capital, yet Taylor Swift remains determined to reclaim her music by producing new versions of her songs.

He nostalgically recounted: "23 years ago a 19 year old kid started managing an artist named Cato in Atlanta, GA and my journey began." During his career, he mused: "Along the way I have had so many experiences I could never have dreamt of."

With a grateful heart, he articulated: "I have been blessed to have had a 'Forrest Gump'-like life while witnessing and taking part in the journeys of some of the most extraordinarily talented people the world has ever seen."

Wondering about his fortunate fate, he pondered: "I'm constantly pinching myself and asking 'how did I get here? ' And after 23 years this chapter as a music manager has come to an end."

Reflecting on his decision, Braun revealed he had "wanted this for a while" but he was afraid of confronting the question of who he would be without his high-profile clientele. Streamlining his longest-held identity, he detailed: "For my entire adult life I played the role of an artist manager on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week," he affirmed.

Emphasising upon his love for his job, he asserted: "And for 20 years I loved it. It's all I had known."

Nevertheless, it appears personal matters ultimately compelled him to reevaluate his priorities: "But as my children got older, and my personal life took some hits, I came to the realisation that my kids were 3 superstars I wasn't willing to lose. The sacrifices I was once willing to make I could no longer justify. It was time to step into a new role."

Braun declared, as he announced his departure from the high-pressure world of talent management. He emphasised his new priorities: "a father first, a CEO second, and a manager no more."

Reflecting on his career trajectory, Braun shared he had been "heading towards this destination" for a couple of years, but it was only last summer his new chapter truly began to unfold. "One of my biggest clients and friends told me that they wanted to spread their wings and go in a new direction," he revealed, viewing the moment not with resentment but as a pivotal sign.

While Braun did not specify the client's identity, PA news agency learned Idina Menzel and Demi Lovato, both represented by Braun since 2019, parted ways with him in the summer of 2023. In his heartfelt statement, Braun recounted some of his most memorable career moments, such as witnessing Usher's performance at the Super Bowl earlier this year.

Addressing the speculation surrounding his company and career, Braun stated: "There has been a lot said about what is happening in our company... and in my career. When we had success I smiled, and when we were attacked I tried to always take the high road."

However, he admitted his approach may have led to misunderstandings about his character: "But for the last 3 years I have begun to feel taking the high road has created confusion and ambiguity as to who we are."

Braun concluded his remarks with: "So yes, it's been 23 years. And yes, this chapter has come to an end."

He reflected on advice from one legendary record producer: "But the great Berry Gordy once told me 'young man, it never ends the way you wanted, but it doesn't mean it didn't happen'.

"That wisdom has proven to be correct. I never saw how this chapter would end, hell, I never even saw it happening. But it did. And I will cherish every moment of it."

He finished with a personal note: "I made my plan... but it turns out I like God's plan better. Cheers!".

Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond - Sign up to our daily newsletter here.