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contacted the Bieber family and, after much persuasion, arranged to fly Justin out to Atlanta to meet Scooter and international rap star and singer-songwriter Usher. Not only was the trip Bieber’s first visit to the US, but it was also his first time on an airplane. Justin Bieber spoke about this first trip to Atlanta: “Right when we flew into Atlanta, Scooter drove us to the studio and Usher was there in the parking lot. That was my first time ever being out of Canada so I went up to him and was like, ‘ Hey Usher, I love your songs, do you want me to sing you one?’ He was like, ‘No little buddy, just come inside, it’s cold out.’” A week later, and Justin returned to Atlanta to perform for Usher. “I sang for him and his people and he really wanted to sign me then and there but I still had a meeting with Justin Timberlake who also wanted to sign me. It turned out Usher’s deal was way better.” Justin Bieber signed to Raymond Braun Media Group, a joint venture between Usher and Scooter Braun, and then, later in October 2008, he officially signed to Island Records. Being a signed artist soon became a full-time job for the singer, but that didn’t mean he could give up his studies! Like many other teen and child stars, Justin started home schooling and even had tutors take to the road with him to ensure that he got an education. He also continued with his sporting ambitions and played hockey for the Atlanta Knights. The early days of Bieber’s career were spent working with songwriters and producers in order to get the young singer comfortable in the studio environment. Producing a first-rate pop star required an extensive

team of musicians, producers, and songwriters, as well as personnel to take care of legal affairs, marketing, and styling.

His first single One Time was released in July 2009 while the remainder of the EP was being recorded.

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ABOVE: Justin Timberlake, who wanted to sign Bieber.

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