In a stunning surprise move that has sent shockwaves through the music industry, Justin Bieber has released his seventh studio album ‘SWAG’ on July 11, 2025. The 21-track album marks his triumphant return after a four-year hiatus since 2021’s ‘Justice.’
The unexpected release came just hours after cryptic billboards appeared in major cities worldwide, including Los Angeles, New York City’s Times Square, and Reykjavík, Iceland.
The Album That Almost Wasn’t
Following his 2022 health crisis with Ramsay Hunt Syndrome, which caused temporary facial paralysis, many wondered if Bieber would ever return to music. The pop superstar canceled the remaining 82 shows of his 131-date Justice World Tour to focus on recovery.
In recent Instagram posts, Bieber revealed his ongoing struggles, writing: “Don’t you think if I could have fixed myself I would have already?”
This vulnerability permeates throughout SWAG, making it perhaps his most honest work to date.
A Star-Studded Collaboration
SWAG features an impressive lineup of collaborators including Gunna, Sexyy Red, Lil B, Cash Cobain, Dijon, Eddie Benjamin, and gospel legend Marvin Winans. The album’s production was handled by Grammy-winning producer Carter Lang (known for his work with SZA), alongside Dylan Wiggins, Daniel Caesar, mk.gee, and Knox Fortune.
In a bold creative choice, Bieber turned to professional songwriters rather than penning all the tracks himself, allowing experts like Tobias Jesso Jr. (who has written for Adele) to craft carefully constructed pop songs during his personal upheaval.
The Complete SWAG Tracklist
The 21-track album showcases Bieber’s evolution as an artist and father:
- All I Can Take
- Daisies
- Yukon
- Go Baby
- Things You Do
- Butterflies
- Way It Is
- First Place
- Soulful
- Walking Away
- Glory Voice Memo
- Devotion (feat. Dijon)
- Dadz Love
- Therapy Session (feat. Druski)
- Sweet Spot
- Standing on Business
- 405
- Swag
- Zuma House
- Too Long
- Forgiveness (feat. Marvin Winans)
Fatherhood as Inspiration
The arrival of Bieber’s son Jack Blues in August 2024 with wife Hailey Bieber has profoundly influenced the album’s direction. Songs like “Dadz Love” directly address his new role as a father.
The album artwork, shot by acclaimed photographer Renell Medrano, features intimate black-and-white images of Bieber with Hailey holding their baby, though the child’s face remains covered for privacy.
Critical Reception and Sound Evolution
Early reviews praise SWAG for its raw, lo-fi aesthetic and experimental R&B sound. Billboard’s preliminary review notes that tracks like “Daisies” create an intimate atmosphere, “as if it places the listener directly in the garage.”
The album represents a significant departure from the polished pop of his earlier work, embracing a more alternative and introspective sound.
Standout tracks include the vulnerable “All I Can Take,” the Latin-inspired “Yukon,” and the stripped-down “Zuma House,” which sounds like an actual voice memo recorded near the beach.
The Iceland Connection
Much of SWAG was recorded during Bieber’s retreat to Iceland in early 2025, where he worked at the Eleven Deplar Farm hotel in Ólafsfjörður. The isolated setting allowed him to “vibe out” with collaborators away from the Los Angeles spotlight.
This Nordic getaway hosted intimate jam sessions that shaped the album’s organic, unpolished feel.
Business Moves and Future Plans
The album release coincided with the launch of Bieber’s new fashion brand SKYLRK, signaling a broader creative renaissance. Sources indicate this might be the first of multiple albums, with a more pop-oriented project potentially in the works.
The release also comes after Bieber’s $200 million catalog sale to Hipgnosis Songs Capital in 2023 and his split from longtime manager Scooter Braun.
A New Chapter Begins
SWAG represents more than just a musical comeback—it’s a deeply personal statement from an artist who has grown up in the public eye. At 31, Bieber has transformed from teen sensation to reflective father and husband.
The album’s exploration of mental health, family, and healing resonates with fans who have followed his journey through both triumphs and struggles.
As one fan tweeted: “Justin Bieber releasing a new album IM GOING TO LOSE IT.” The excitement is palpable, and if SWAG is any indication, this new era of Justin Bieber promises to be his most authentic yet.
SWAG is now available on all major streaming platforms including Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube Music.
