Justin Bieber And Usher: "We Both Want To Grow And Innovate As Artists"

12 May 2012, 08:18 | Updated: 12 May 2012, 08:20

The long-time friends discuss how important it is to evolve without losing their original fans.

Justin Bieber and Usher have highlighted how important it is to evolve as artists.

In a joint interview with Billboard, both agreed that it was crucial to experiment with their music, but to also ensure they did not alienate their original fans.

Justin, who recently unveiled a new direction with the song 'Boyfriend', said: "I don't want to lose my young fans, but I also want to mature and develop.

"I always keep one foot out of my comfort zone, trying new things and experimenting - if you don't, people will get bored. Seeing the smiles on people's faces and how I affect them when I perform makes me want to give them the absolute best experience they can possibly get.

Usher said: "I'm happy that Justin knows that without me even saying that. You really do want to make sure that you bring along fans that have always been there, but make sure that you grow and chart new territory.

"Even seven albums in, I still try to be innovative, blaze new trails, but allow people to come along on the journey.

"It's all about striving for greatness and offering the best that I have. It's no different than an athlete, or a boxer: standing in front of the person trying to tear his head off, he has to give his all to make it out of that ring."

Usher is currently preparing for the release of his new album 'Looking 4 Myself', while Justin releases his new record 'Believe' in June.

Both Usher and Justin will perform at Capital FM's Summertime Ball at London's Wembley Stadium on 9th June.