Canadian pop artist Justin Bieber and Nigerian Afro-fusion star Burna Boy have released new albums, marking notable returns for both musicians.
Bieber’s latest studio album, Swag, arrived four years after his 2021 release, Justice. The album, which runs just under one hour, features collaborations with artists including Gunna, Sexxy Red, and Cash Cobain. The title Swag references a line from Bieber’s 2012 track Boyfriend, and continues his engagement with themes of image and identity.
Promotional material released by the singer includes black-and-white photographs of him alongside his wife, Hailey Bieber, and a child believed to be their son. One image shows Bieber standing with his back to the camera while Hailey holds the baby beside him, with the word “SWAG” appearing on the frame.
The album’s second track, Daisies, features lyrics that suggest personal reflection, including lines such as “falling petals do you love me or not” and “you said forever babe, did you mean it or not?” Other tracks on the album include Devotion, Soulful, and Forgiveness, an obvious tribute to Bieber’s continued engagement with his Christian faith.
Fellow artist Big Sean welcomed the release with a comment on Bieber’s Instagram, writing, “Yes!!!!” Fans have also reacted positively, noting the album’s emotional and stylistic depth. The release comes amid ongoing speculation about Bieber’s mental well-being, as well as increased media attention on his marriage.
Meanwhile, Burna Boy released his eighth studio album No Sign of Weakness on July 10 through Spaceship Records, Bad Habit, and Atlantic Records. The 16-track project includes previously released singles such as Bundle by Bundle, Update, Sweet Love, and TaTaTa, which features U.S. rapper Travis Scott. The album also includes collaborations with British rock legend Mick Jagger on Empty Chairs and Belgian artist Stromae on Pardon.
Speaking with Billboard France, Burna Boy described the album as “extrospective.” “It’s not just about me,” he said, “but about looking outward, reflecting on the world, and how my experiences connect to the bigger picture. It’s about growth, understanding, and challenging perceptions while staying true to who I am.”
TaTaTa peaked at No. 2 on the U.S. Afrobeats Songs chart, while Bundle by Bundle and Update both reached No. 5. The new release follows his 2023 album I Told Them…, which earned a Grammy nomination for Best Global Music Album. That album’s singles City Boys and Sittin’ on Top of the World also received Grammy nods.
Burna Boy is currently headlining the final night of Afro Nation Portugal on the Lit Stage, where he is performing tracks from the new album live for the first time. In November, he will launch the No Sign of Weakness Tour in Morrison, Colorado, at the Red Rocks Amphitheatre, becoming the first Nigerian artist to headline the venue. The tour will continue through 17 dates in major cities across North America, concluding with back-to-back shows at Toronto’s Scotiabank Arena on December 17 and 18.
Image Credit: Justin Bieber and family Billboard|Google
