Bieber shows he might be regaining his stride
Justin Bieber, the good boy gone bad then back again, says his “purpose” goes far beyond album titles and ticket sales.
“It’s a moment to share something beautiful with the world,” Bieber told a huge crowd Thursday at Toyota Center. “I feel like I’ve found my purpose again.”
The pop superstar was in town for “An Evening With Justin Bieber,” a 90-minute event that was equal parts acoustic concert, Q&A and motivational speech. It was the final stop on a promo tour for new album “Purpose” that included Los Angeles and Chicago.
Tickets were around $30 and went on sale just a few days earlier. He returns April 9 for a proper concert.
He talked about “Pur- pose” and claimed he recorded around 200 songs for the project over the span of “three to four years.” It’s a mature, grandly entertaining collection that includes collaborations with EDM stars Diplo and Skrillex.
He took several fan questions, many asked through fits of tears. The Biebs doled out advice on depression (“There are better days ahead of you”) and revealed dream collaborators (Michael Jackson, “old” Eminem).
And his favorite thing about Houston? “Probably when Yao Ming played for the Rockets.”
Bieber performed seven songs with just a guitar- ist, including familiar hits “Boyfriend,” “As Long As You Love Me” and “One Less Lonely Girl.” He’s an effortlessly charismatic singer, injecting tasteful runs at the right moments.
He also debuted new tunes “What Do You Mean,” “Sorry,” “Love Yourself ” and “I’ll Show You.” “Purpose,” released Nov. 13, is expected to debut at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 album chart. It’s the crest of an aggressive image rehabilitation that’s seen him charming talk show hosts. He’ll also close Sunday’s American Music Awards with a medley of hits.
Judging by Bieber’s humble demeanor, maybe he’s found his footing.
“I want people to know that I’m human,” he said.