In 2009, millions of people across the globe either fell in love with or developed a hate for the 12-year-old YouTube singer from Canada. As the years passed, Justin Bieber quickly gained popularity and has now released seven albums, his newest addition being Purpose. Bieber has announced that he will embark on the Purpose World Tour and one of his stops will be in St. Louis.

Bieber quickly rose to fame as a young teen by covering popular songs and uploading them onto YouTube. Scooter Braun, a music executive, accidentally clicked on one of Bieber’s videos from 2007 and was intrigued. In a matter of months, Bieber’s first single, “One Time,” peaked on Billboard Top 100 at #17. His debut album My World was released in 2009, including singles such as “One Less Lonely Girl,” “Love Me” and “Favorite Girl.”

“I’m a fan of young Bieber because he was so innocent and sweet, and “One Time” and “Baby” were both such good songs,” said senior Anna Hermann.

To many pre-teen girls’ dismay, Bieber cut his famous hair and grew up. He changed his image, his music and his reputation in the media. After two box office movies and numerous Billboard hits such as “Never Say Never,” “That Should Be Me” and “Boyfriend,” Bieber took a break from his music in 2013.

In August 2015, Bieber released his first single in almost two years, “What Do You Mean” from his fourth album Purpose, and it became his first #1 on the Billboard Top 100. Following in October, he released his second single from the album, “Sorry.” Purpose was later released November 13, debuting at the top of the Billboard charts.

Hermann, who bought the entire Purpose album on iTunes when it was released, gave her top picks from the album: “The Feeling,” “Mark My Words,” “I’ll Show You,” “Company” and Children.”

“I’ve liked [Bieber’s] music since I was really little, and he’s really hot,” said junior Lily Glinski. “My favorite song from his new album would probably be ‘Purpose’ or ‘The Feeling.'”

On November 15, Bieber announced his Purpose World Tour, beginning March 9, 2016, in Seattle, Washington. One of his tour performances will be right here in St. Louis! Bieber will sing at Scottrade Center on April 19. Tickets are on sale now, but many fans have already purchased them ahead of time.

Glinski, attending the concert with a group of her friends, is excited to be in the front row on the floor. Hermann, along with Cece Cornett and many other St. Dominic students, was able to get tickets on the mezzanine.

Whether you are a fan of the 14-year-old Bieber singing “Baby” or you cheered when he cut his hair, Bieber will be sure to capture your attention with his new album. Its new sound features an electronic pop edge, but it disconnects from the traditional Bieber style. The young Bieber is still better than his new music, thus receiving a rating of 8 out of 10. Making a comeback from his musically-induced coma, Bieber is topping the charts with multiple songs from his new album. Maybe it’s too late now to be sorry, but it’s not too late to buy tickets to see Bieber in St. Louis.

Favorite song: “Love Yourself”

Least favorite song: “Trust”