Over two decades after first joining the world of entertainment management — at the surprisingly young age of 19 — the infamous entrepreneur is finally hanging it up. In a lengthy Instagram post on Monday, captioned “23 years”, the 42-year-old went down memory lane through his entire career before announcing he’d made the decision to retire. He wrote in a carousel of images:

“23 years. That’s how long I have been a music manager. 23 years ago a 19 year old kid started managing an artist named Cato in Atlanta, GA and my journey began. Along the way I have had so many experiences I could never have dreamt of. 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. 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.”

He went on to explain how music management consumed his life 24/7 — and for a while he “loved it” — but now he’s ready to focus more on his kids after his “personal life took some hits”. But just because he’s disappearing from the management scene doesn’t mean he’s gone for good. He explained he’ll be continuing his role as the CEO of his company HYBE America:

“In this next chapter I have been honored to join as a board member of Hybe and serve as the CEO of Hybe America. My brilliant partner these past 3 years, Chairman Bang, has a vision I truly believe in. But even beyond that he has become a true friend who understands where I must be in my life these days. And that is a father first, a CEO second, and a manager no more.”

Scooter added how he felt he’d been heading toward retirement for a couple years now, saying it was God’s plan for him. Innerestingly he says doesn’t regret any of the time he spent as a manager. In particular, he said he still supports ALL his past clients and is cheering on “every single one of them”:

“I have nothing but love for those I have worked with over the years, and as we develop a different working relationship, I will always be in their corner to consult and support them whether it be directly or from afar. Every client I have had the privilege of working with has changed my life, and I know many of them are just beginning to see the success they deserve. I will cheer for every single one of them.”

No regrets, huh? Of course, the record exec has been mired in controversy ever since he bought Taylor Swift‘s discography masters — allegedly right out from under her. And when he name dropped all his current and past clients with to thank them for all their work and time over the years, every big name he collaborated, he notably left her name off the list.

Related: Taylor Swift Emotionally Gushes Over 100th Eras Tour Show!

He reflected on his work with artists like Andrew Watt, Lil Dicky, Tori Kelly, J Balvin, Martin Garrix, David Guetta, Steve Angello, Carly Rae Jepsen, PSY, Quavo, Kanye West, YG, The Kid LAROI, Dan+Shay, Asher Roth, and Usher. He also threw out the names of Demi Lovato and the Zac Brown Band, but it wasn’t until he started in on the successes of Ariana Grande and Justin Bieber did he really show his pride. The music pro said it had been an honor watching them grow up into the “legends they are today”:

“There will never be a day where I don’t take great pride and honor in what we accomplished together. The same can be said for so many I have had the pleasure of once being called “manager”.”

Scooter didn’t forget to address the elephant in the room, though! At least indirectly. He took a moment to reflect on how he says he’s always taken “the high road” when “attacked.” He wrote:

“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 always tried to take the high road. But for the last 3 years I have begin to feel that taking the high road has created confusion and ambiguity as to who we are.”

So Taylor “attacked” him, is what he’s saying? And he’s the better person for taking the high road, but also he now thinks taking the high road was a mistake? Hmm…

The record executive said his colleagues will now be the ones taking over the management positions while he oversees this new era diving into primarily K-Pop, new artists, new investments, and his family. Wrapping up his statement, he said:

“So yes, it’s been 23 your ears. And yes, this chapter has come to an end. But the great Berry Gordy once told me ‘young man, it never ends the way you wanted, but that 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. I made my plan… but it turns out I like God’s plan better. Cheers!”

See Scooter’s full post (below):

Wow! A lot to take in — and already a lot of discussion in the comments! What do U think, Perezcious readers? Sound OFF (below).

[Image via MEGA/WENN]

The post Scooter Braun RETIRES From Music Management -- And Shades Taylor Swift In His Announcement?! appeared first on Perez Hilton.

No, it’s not Men In Black 4. It’s Coachella!

Fans in the audience of J Balvin’s set on Sunday were treated to much more than they bargained for — a surprise cameo from the Oscar winner to do one of his biggest soundtrack hits live! Balvin was performing on an out-of-this-world stage, which featured alien props and backup dancers! So who better to cameo than an alien expert?!

Related: Justin Bieber Gave Jaden Smith A Big Kiss At Coachella! & Fans Have THOUGHTS!

Will popped out on stage to perform the Men in Black theme song — and even dressed the part, in his suit and sunglasses from the movie! See (below):

Galaxy defenders @JBALVIN #WillSmith ????

Tune in to the 2024 livestream on @YouTube at https://t.co/j5uIbSOgaa pic.twitter.com/kLuXK90LY8

— Coachella (@coachella) April 15, 2024

Loves it!

Who would have thought after all these years we’d be seeing Will suit up as a Men in Black agent again?! One of the best parts was when he zapped the memories of all the audience members with his signature neuralyzer from the movies, and… uh… Wait, what were we writing about??

Thoughts on Will’s surprise cameo?? Let us know down in the comments!

[Images via Coachella/X & Sony Pictures Releasing/YouTube]

The post Will Smith Shocks Coachella With Surprise <i>Men In Black</i> Performance! appeared first on Perez Hilton.

ICYMI, the Colombian rappers hit up celeb hotspot Zero Bond in New York City for sushi last month — and ran into the Toxic singer! Awkwardly enough, she said she had “no idea” who they were when they “flagged her down,” but she and her group still went over and joined them. And now the Colores artist is providing some more insight into what their conversation looked like!

In an E! News interview published on Tuesday, the 38-year-old opened up about what he and Maluma had to say to Brit — and it’s so sweet! He recalled:

“We told her how proud we are about her. You know, like she’s part of us, and we were in love with her. No matter what position you are in music you gotta give respect for what they have done.”

“In love with her”?! OMG! Maybe he means, like, back in the day?? Maybe not… Either way, Britney is undoubtedly the princess of pop, and these two clearly have no qualms recognizing her for it! ESPECIALLY amid everything she’s been through…

Related: Britney ‘Banned’ Little Sis Jamie Lynn From Talking About Her On TV!

As for how the 41-year-old appeared to Balvin, he told the outlet:

“I saw her in really good spirit.”

That’s so great to hear! Brit truly deserves all the happiness. And if you’re wondering if we could ever see a musical collab between the heavy hitters, the Mi Gente rapper excitedly teased, “Absolutely yes.”

We’ll be waiting! Thoughts, Perezcious readers? Let us know in the comments down below!

[Images via Maluma & Britney Spears/Instagram, & Amazon Music/YouTube]

The post J Balvin Spills Details On Dinner With Britney Spears! appeared first on Perez Hilton.

ICYMI, Britney Spears went to New York City earlier this week and met up two of the hottest stars ever out of Colombia, Maluma and J Balvin for a sushi dinner. A source told Page Six the two guys saw Brit at the celebrity hotspot Zero Bond and invited the 41-year-old singer and her friends over to join them:

“The guys flagged her down, and she and her group joined them. Everyone was in good spirits. Britney was all smiles and so happy to be back in New York for the first time in a while.”

Related: Michelle Williams Is The Big Star Who Recorded Britney’s Memoir!

That sounds so fun! Just some pop stars doing an impromptu collab on some spicy tuna! The funny thing is, it turns out Britney may not have had any idea who J Balvin and Maluma were when the pair asked her to hang out with them!

The pop star took to Instagram to share some videos of her trip to New York City, which included a snapshot of her with the two singers. She then revealed in the caption that she had no clue who they were, saying:

“Quick trip to NY … I had no idea who these boys were at this restaurant”

Although Britney did not clarify if she was joking, she did tag both J Balvin and Maluma in the post. So if she didn’t know before, she did by a few sakis in! However, if the winky faces in the post are a hint, she very well could be messing with fans! LOLz!

But considering the Circus songstress didn’t even know who Pete Davidson and Scott Disick were at one point, would anyone be surprised if she wasn’t familiar with the reggaeton artists? Lolz!

Nevertheless, it appeared she had a good time with the boys based on their photo together! Reactions, Perezcious readers? Let us know in the comments below!

[Image via MEGA/WENN, WENN]

The post Britney Spears Says She Had ‘No Idea’ Who Maluma & J Balvin Were During Sushi Dinner Together! appeared first on Perez Hilton.

On Wednesday, Britney Spears arrived in New York City — and Maluma and J Balvin rolled out the welcome wagon! According to Page Six, the Toxic singer made her way to celeb hotspot Zero Bond for a sushi dinner, where the Qué Pena collaborators were already posted up for the evening. Maluma posted a selfie vid with Balvin on his Instagram Story, which you can see (below):

Seems like a ton of fun, right?! But that wasn’t all!!

Related: Taylor Swift Gushes Over Beyoncé’s ‘Fairytale’ Appearance At Her Movie Premiere!

Good times definitely weren’t lacking for the two, and they apparently invited the pop star and her crew over to join in once at the hotspot! A source told the outlet:

“The guys flagged her down, and she and her group joined them. Everyone was in good spirits. Britney was all smiles and so happy to be back in New York for the first time in a while.”

So fun!! See more (below):

Britney Spears Grabs Dinner with Maluma and J Balvin, Poses with Tongue Out | Click to read more ???? https://t.co/4GKeFvB2PX

— TMZ (@TMZ) October 12, 2023

We’ve never seen this trio together, but we ain’t mad at it! Could some new music possibly be in the works??

Britney, of course, is in the Big Apple to prep for the promotion of her highly-anticipated memoir The Woman In Me, which will hit shelves on October 24.

What do YOU think of this unexpected crossover, Perezcious readers?? Let us know in the comments below!!

[Images via Britney Spears/Maluma/Instagram]

The post Britney Spears Is 'All Smiles' For Sushi Date With Maluma & J Balvin! LOOK! appeared first on Perez Hilton.

On Friday, the exes were spotted dining at Beverly Hills hotspot Funke alongside rapper J Balvin and his girlfriend Valentina Ferrer, as well as AE’s close friend and frequent collaborator Tyga. But wait, didn’t they break up in May?!

Related: Teyana Taylor & Iman Shumpert Split After 7 Years Of Marriage!

In photos obtained by multiple outlets, the two can be seen exiting the eatery in matching head-to-toe black ‘fits — hand in hand! Cher sported wide-legged black trousers with white piping and a matching black trench coat while letting her long, dark locks flow free. AE opted for a lengthy black puffer and black leather pants. See (below):

EXCLUSIVE: Cher, 77, and her ex Alexander Edwards, 37, spark rumors of rekindled romance as they hold hands on double date with J Balvin and Valentina Ferrer https://t.co/8YDOZDh47e

— Daily Mail Celebrity (@DailyMailCeleb) September 16, 2023

To be honest, the two look as radiant as ever in these pics… Could it be the look of love??

Sources close to the situation told DailyMail.com on Saturday that while the former lovers DID call it quits on their controversial relationship in May after sparking engagement rumors, they always stayed in touch — and now it looks like they can’t stop touching one another!

In the photos, AE escorted 77-year-old Cher, who is 40 years his senior btw, to a blacked-out SUV before opening the door for her and helping her in. Inside the rig, the two were spotted cuddling up as they giggled and leaned in to one another.

What breakup?! LOLz!

Are YOU rooting for Cher and AE as a couple?? Let us know in the comments down below!

[Images via Nicky Nelson/MEGA/WENN]

The post OMG! Cher & Alexander 'AE' Edwards Are Totally Back On! LOOK! appeared first on Perez Hilton.

The pop music guru’s wild success repping artists like Justin Bieber and Ariana Grande made him one of the best known managers in the industry. But it was his controversies that made him a household name. And that may be about to get worse, according to sources speaking to Variety on Tuesday.

As you may have heard, Scooter is losing clients left and right. Word first got out last week that the Biebs himself was leaving. There were conflicting reports, but Puck News seemed convinced Justin and Scooter were dunzo. There was talk J Balvin had left in May. Then the news came out that Demi Lovato was looking for new management! What could cause Demi, who had been such an ardent defender of Scooter from irate Taylor Swift fans back in the day, to go? Then Tuesday morning brought reports Ariana had left, too!

The latest? According to The Hollywood Reporter, Idina Menzel, star of Broadway and Disney‘s Frozen franchise, quietly iced out the manager back in January!

Related: Has Hailey Bieber Been Calling All The Shots For Justin’s Career?

Like we said, there are lots of conflicting reports. But if these stories aren’t true, why aren’t the stars themselves just coming out and saying so? Showing solidarity with Scooter? Instead all the reps are shutting out press. So what’s going on??

One source told Variety it’s all too real. And it’s all about Scooter:

“He’s imploding.”

The insider hinted, as the outlet put it, “unsavory revelations” are about to come out:

“It’s a different world since the pandemic. You just can’t be an a**hole like that anymore.”

Whoa! What’s coming out? They make it sounds like some pretty serious allegations that could tank the man’s rep, such as it is! Obviously what Braun did to Taylor Swift, buying her music library out from under her in 2018, is the stuff of recording artist nightmares. That was the biggest hit Scooter has ever been responsible for, and it was to his reputation. But Variety notes the manager has managed to make a lot more enemies during his climb to the top. And it’s all about to come crashing down.

Or is it?

Once again, there are two sides. On the other hand, a different source told the outlet Scooter is simply choosing to graduate to a different position in the industry — leading his clients to amicably part ways:

“He’s getting out of management — he has been for years. That’s the real story.”

See, Scooter is now the CEO of HYBE America. That’s the US arm of the South Korean company behind international pop juggernauts BTS and others. In his new job, some sources claim, he just doesn’t have enough time to do day-to-day management for clients anymore.

One source says it’s just the transition that has some stars deciding if they need different management:

“All of Scooter Braun’s clients are under contract and negotiations have been going on for several months as Scooter steps into his larger role as HYBE America CEO.”

They clarified that Scooter himself may not be managing the Biebs or Ariana anymore, not exactly, but they haven’t left SB Projects:

“People are spreading rumors based on what they know, but they are off. Scooter’s team at SB Projects are still handling both Justin and Ariana as they work through what this new structure looks like.”

Is this more spin? What Scooter is so well known for? Or is the truth gray? Somewhere in the middle?

The question remains: If Justin and Ari are still with Scooter, why not just say so? If everything is fine, and this is all just rumors, wouldn’t it be easy for the stars to set the record straight?

What do YOU think, Perezcious readers. Will something serious come out about Scooter? Or is this all just smoke and speculation??

[Image via Nicky Nelson/Adriana M. Barraza/MEGA/WENN.]

The post Scooter Braun Is 'Imploding' -- Are Stars Jumping Ship Before Allegations Come Out?! appeared first on Perez Hilton.

The Happy singer, who serves as the new men’s creative director for Louis Vuitton, debuted his first show for the brand Tuesday night in Paris — and he got ALL the support from Hollywood’s finest!

Related: The Reason Why Beyoncé Was So ‘Pissed’ At Her Stage Crew!

The dazzling show, which presented Louis Vuitton’s Men’s Spring-Summer 2024 Collection Exposé, was celebrated by the likes of Beyoncé and Jay-Z, Kim Kardashian, Rihanna (who features in the campaign) and A$AP Rocky, Zendaya, Tyler the Creator, Jaden and Willow Smith, Maluma, Offset, J Balvin, Megan Thee Stallion, Quavo, Naomi Campbell, Lenny Kravitz, Kelly Rowland, Lewis Hamilton, Anitta, Miranda Kerr, Omar Sy, and more. See some of their official posts (below):

Following the show, Pharrell and Jay-Z even performed live! See (below):

Leave it to @pharrell, @louisvuitton’s menswear artistic director, to give showgoers top-tier fashion—and a show. Tonight in Paris, Jay Z attended the show with @beyonce before hitting the stage himself for a performance. See more from the event here: https://t.co/TG012Cjj0A pic.twitter.com/IFQLL7gIz7

— Vogue Magazine (@voguemagazine) June 20, 2023

Wow, a night to remember for sure!

What are your thoughts on the star-studded show, Perezcious readers? Let us know in the comments down below!

[Images via Vogue/YouTube & MEGA/WENN]

The post Pharrell Williams Gets Support From Pregnant Rihanna, A$AP Rocky, & MORE For Louis Vuitton Fashion Show! appeared first on Perez Hilton.

This song has already been bubbling up the charts and J Balvin just hopped on a new version of Better Days.

This is such a smash!

Disco pop!!!

Reminds us of Doja Cat‘s breakthrough, Say So.

Check out  the power collab – above – featuring NEIKED x Mae Muller x J Balvin x Polo G!

The post Listen To This: Sit Around And Wait For... appeared first on Perez Hilton.

The Colombian recording artist, full name José Álvaro Osorio Balvín, found himself at the forefront of major public backlash this weekend after the visuals for his song was released. In the vid — which has since been removed from YouTube after the uproar — the rapper was shown walking two Black women on leashes, with their faces made to look like dogs.

Related: J Balvin Reveals His ‘Complicated’ And ‘Difficult’ Coronavirus Diagnosis — ‘I Got It Bad’

Of course, “perra” is the Spanish word for bitch, a female dog, so pretty much from the start it should have been evident this wasn’t going to be the most sensitive content he’s ever put out… Still, unsurprisingly, fans reacted negatively to the Raymi Paulus-directed music video. And now, J Balvin is making sure he is very clear about walking it back.

On Sunday, the 36-year-old performing artist took to his Instagram Stories in a series of four consecutive clips to publicly apologize for the Perra content, while also trying to make good on his collaboration on that same song with Dominican performer Tokischa (pictured above, inset).

In one vid on his IG Stories, the reggaeton artist says in Spanish (below):

“I want to say sorry to whomever felt offended, especially to the Black community. That’s not who I am.”

Conscious of the effect the video had not only on his female fans, but also his own family, Balvin apologized directly to his mother for the uproar as well.

He also added a note about Tokischa, and her role in the controversy:

“I have always been about tolerance, love, and integration, just as I’ve always liked to support new talent — in this case Tokischa, a woman who supports her people, her community, and empowers women.”

Speaking of Tokischa, the 25-year-old from Santo Domingo Este opened up to Rolling Stone about the visuals, too.

Related: J Balvin Sure Is A Long Way From His Old Must-Watch Music Video With Selena Gomez…

In her comments, the former model-turned-artist apologized for the way the video was interpreted, revealing that they had initially meant for the song to be a play on the phrase “perra en calor,” which roughly translates in English to “bitch in heat.”

Tokischa, who said she’s continuing to support J Balvin through this “difficult moment,” explained:

“I said that if I’m going to talk about ‘perra en calor,’ I’m going use all the language associated with dogs: ‘perro de raza’ [purebred], ‘Purina’—which is a word with a double meaning because here, that’s what you call a product that’s really pure… ‘la perrera’ [the pound]. It was very conceptual. If you, as a creative, have a song that’s talking about dogs, you’re going to create that world. I understand the interpretation people had and I’m truly sorry that people felt offended. But at the same time, art is expression.”

¡Dios mio!

What do U think, Perezcious readers? Is it all lost in translation here or should this have been a no-go from the very beginning for both J Balvin and Tokischa? Lets just remember it was two Black women made to look like dogs…

Sound OFF with your take on the Perra controversy down in the comments (below).

[Image via Tokischa/J Balvin/Instagram]

The post J Balvin Apologizes For Controversial <i>Perra</i> Music Video After Backlash: 'That's Not Who I Am' appeared first on Perez Hilton.