Usher: Bieber friendship is real

Usher says his relationship with Justin Bieber "far exceeds business".

Usher helped Justin make it in the industry and he is now one of the biggest names in pop music. Usher loves working with the 18-year-old heartthrob and has discussed the close bond they share.

"In terms of being a mentor, being a person of influence, it is a relationship that far exceeds just business. And it is one I am very proud of," Usher told UK TV show Daybreak. "And yes, the young man has come along very well. He is coming into his own, his new album is going to be incredible."

Justin is currently promoting his latest record Believe. Usher is proud of the 18-year-old's third studio LP as it offers a real insight into the pop star's life.

He is also happy that Justin was involved in writing some tracks for the record – which features hits such as Boyfriend.

"The work that he is doing is only a product of his expression, the more he has experienced the more he has been able to talk about," he explained. "I love the fact that he was able to write on this album and give people a greater sense of who he is as an artist."