Justin Bieber Quitting Music? Retiring after New Album Says Baby Singer

Canadian pop star Justin Bieber shocked his fans after announcing that he was retiring as a singer during an appearance on Power 106 radio station in Los Angeles, California.

Bieber is set to release his forthcoming album Journals on 23 December.

'"After the new album, I'm actually retiring man. I'm retiring," he said.

However, he assured that he will return with better music. "I want to grow as an artist and I'm taking a step out, I want my music to mature," he added.

Meanwhile, a source close to Bieber told TMZ that he was joking.

"The kid's got ambition," the insider said.

The 19-year-old Baby singer has not had the easiest of times recently. Bieber has had to face criticism over a series of scandals, including fights with the paparazzi and allegations of assault. He also had to face irate fans when he appeared over two hours late for a concert. Another incident was the visit to the strip joint, Bada Bing Nightspot in Kings Cross, Sydney, while on the Australian leg of his Believe world tour.

Bieber, who previously dated American singer-actress Selena Gomez, also revealed how he has always been a "caring" person.

"People think I'm arrogant, I'm not, I've always been a caring and giving person," he told during the interview, adding, "I'm here solely for my fans and for the music."