is retiring as a music manager after 23 years — and said goodbye to the industry in a lengthy statement.
“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,” Braun, 42, shared on Monday, June 17. “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.”
Braun, perhaps most known for working with and over the years, explained that his decision to retire came after a realization that his kids “were 3 superstars I wasn’t willing to lose.” Braun shares sons Jagger and Levi, and daughter Hart with ex-wife .
“The sacrifices I was once willing to make I could no longer justify,” he added. “It was time to step into a new role.”
Braun will continue his career as CEO of Hybe America, a role in which he took on in January 2023.
“Over the past 2 years I have been heading towards this destination, but it wasn’t until last summer that this new chapter became a reality. One of my biggest clients and friends told me that they wanted to spread their wings and go in a new direction,” Braun continued. “We had been through so much together over the last decade, but instead of being hurt I saw it as a sign.”
While he will no longer be overseeing clients, Braun noted that he will “always” be willing to “consult” those he’s worked with over the years.
“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,” he wrote. “I will cheer for every single one of them.”
Braun’s statement also named Bieber, 30, and Grande, 30, specifically.
“Justin and Ariana were both young teenagers when I began with them,” he started. “To see them both come up to be the legends they are today will forever be one of my greatest honors. As we change our working relationships now, I will continue to root for them with the same passion that I did at each of their humble beginnings.”
Braun said he takes “great pride and honor” in their accomplishments together.
The news of Braun’s retirement comes nearly a year after it was widely reported multiple artists had dropped the mogul as their music manager.
“There has been a lot said about what is happening in our company… and in my career,” he added, seemingly addressing ongoing speculation. “When we had success I smiled, and when we were attacked I tried to always take the high road. But for the last 3 years I have begun to feel that taking the high road has created confusion and ambiguity as to who we are.”
Braun made it clear that his retirement “does not mean we as a company are leaving,” naming and as his successors.
“So yes, it’s been 23 years,” he concluded. “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 it doesn’t mean it didn’t happen.’ That wisdom has proven to be correct.”
