Justin was a typical child growing up. He loved to play soccer and hockey, but music was his real love. He first fell in love with drumming when on church outings, when he would be inspired by the drummer.
He remembers, “I’ve loved music since I can remember.” He developed his musical skills by teaching himself to play the trumpet, guitar, and piano.
Justin’s mother was always there for him, encouraging his dream despite their financial difficulties. She got him drumsticks so he could practice on the floor because she couldn’t afford professional drum equipment. In order to highlight his talent, she also filmed his performances and uploaded them to YouTube.
From Coexisting with Rats to Becoming the Most Well-Known Pop Artist in the World
Justin, who performed Ne-Yo’s “So Sick,” placed second in a local talent competition when he was just twelve years old. His mother’s YouTube videos attracted a lot of attention, which helped him get noticed.
As Justin’s musical skills improved, his luck altered. He eventually made over $3,000 by busking in front of a nearby theater. He was able to fulfill a lifelong ambition by using this money to take his family on their first Disneyland visit.
From Coexisting with Rats to Becoming the Most Well-Known Pop Artist in the World
Justin now considers his modest upbringing and recalls a happy childhood in spite of his lack of material affluence. He understands the importance of hard work and money.
When rising music business sensation Scooter Braun stumbled across Justin’s YouTube videos, it was his big break. After being blown away by Justin’s voice, Braun, who had been looking for another talent, spent a lot of time trying to locate him. After a while, he located Justin’s school and called his mother, Pattie, making the call that would permanently alter their lives.
