R&B singer Usher is the latest celebrity to come forward and defend fellow musician Justin Bieber following multiple racist clips leaking online this week. #UsherTalks
The mega hitmaker issued a statement on Biebs’ now-infamous remarks.
“At my core, I am a person that supports growth and understands without judgement, that growth often comes as a result of pain and continues effort. As I have watched Justin Bieber navigate difficult waters as a young man, I can tell you that he hasn’t always chosen the path of his greatest potential, but he is unequivocally not a racist.” (Usher’s Instagram)
Usher also suggested Bieber has since grown from when the clips were made.
“What he was 5 years ago was a naive child who did not understand the negative power and degradation that comes from playing with racial slurs. What he is now is a young man faced with an opportunity to become his best self, an example to the millions of kids that follow him to not make the same mistakes.” (Usher’s Instagram)
Recently, G-Unit head 50 Cent suggested Bieber still had growing up to do in light of the videos.
“I don’t think [Justin] is racist,” he told The Sun. “I don’t think he even knows who he is at this point – he’s so young. When you see people become huge stars real early, it’s tough for them.” Rapper 50 Cent added: “I think Justin’s still a baby and he’s lost.” (OK!)
Young Money executive Mack Maine came forward and defended the Biebs earlier this week.
Young Money Prez Mack Maine tells TMZ … everyone on the label has interacted with Bieber extensively and there has not been a hint of racism on Justin’s part. Mack Maine says the majority of Justin’s crew is black, and “Bieber does not have a slave mentality. He treats his people with respect.” Mack Maine says Justin has “legitimately adopted the culture of the hip hop, African American culture.” (TMZ)