Usher believes Justin Bieber needs to “manage” his own life now that he's an adult.
The rapper has mentored the pop heartthrob since his career took off at the age of just 13, seven years ago, but he hasn't tried to stage an intervention following Justin's recent run-ins with the law and bad publicity as he insists the youngster needs to learn from his own mistakes.
Speaking in Nylon magazine, Usher said: “I gave every bit of advice and always told him it was up to him if he really wanted this. Now that he has it, as an adult, it's his to manage. Do I turn my head in shame based off of what I see, what I know? Nah, I don't because it's all part of life's process. Am I in it with him? Yeah.”
Usher, 35, was mentored by Diddy from the age of 15, so he understands why it's important to have someone else in the industry looking out for you.
He explained: “Artistic development made me who I am. Somebody took the time to help me find what it is that works for me as an enterainer and who I am as a music maker.”
Earlier this year, Justin was arrested in Miami and charged with driving under the influence (DUI), resisting arrest and possessing an invalid driver's license.
And just this week, he was forced to apologise after a controversial video emerged of him telling a racist joke.
Usher said: “It's unfortunate. I hate some of the things I hear. Is it all true? I don't know. But I will tell you this: Success comes with a price. Every person that has grown up, grows up with something. It ain't just perfect from the beginning.”
50 Cent, however, thinks Bieber is “still a baby”.
The 'Candy Shop' rapper has defended the controversial pop star insists Justin isn't racist.
50, real name Curtis Jackson, said: “I don't think he's racist. I don't think even he 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. You have to grow up with all these expectations. I think Justin's still a baby and he's lost.”
However, 50 worries that people labelling Justin 'racist' may have a detrimental effect on the singer.
The 38-year-old rapper told The Sun newspaper: “That people are saying he is may actually affect him and turn him into one.
“I've been so many things I'm not because of things that people said I am. But I think he will be all right.” – Bang Showbiz