Ah, young adulthood. The time in a young man’s life when he starts to wisen up and get a little perspective on his existence thus far.
In Justin Bieber‘s case, this means realizing that award shows are more about business and advertising than celebrating the arts, and it’s giving him a lot of feelings.
In an Instagram post Monday, the pop star explored those feelings in a lengthy caption paired with a soothing photo of a castle and some sheep. As Bieber wrote:
No disrespect to anybody at any of the shows or the people running it. Nothing but love for you guys and your support. But I don’t feel good when I’m there nor after. I try to think of it as a celebration but can’t help feeling like people are rating and grading my performance. A lot of people in the audience there to be seem worried [sic] about how much camera time they will get or who they can network with.
Considering his Instagram went up after Sunday’s Billboard Music Awards, where Bieber performed his songs “Sorry” and “Company,” it’s safe to assume that this post was at least partly inspired by the evening. He continued:
When I’m doing a regular show I feel they are there for the right reasons and to strictly have a good time! But these award shows seem so hollow. I get the premise is to award people for their accomplishments, but is it really? … I just think to myself if I’m living my purpose I want the reward to be fulfillment… When I do get these awards the temptation of putting my worth in what I do is so hard to fight!!!I am privileged and honored to be recognized by my peers in but in these settings I can’t feel the recognition. There’s an authenticity missing that I crave!
In case you want to see his entire message.
With great wokeness comes great responsibility. But Bieber, oddly enough, seems up for the challenge.
