Usher has pushed back against reports of a feud with Justin Bieber following an alleged confrontation at an Oscars after-party hosted by Beyoncé and Jay-Z, with the singer describing the incident as an "exaggeration of conversation," according to remarks relayed by Da Brat on The Rickey Smiley Morning Show.
The comments, delivered on March 23, come after reports circulated suggesting a tense exchange between the two artists at the high-profile gathering, fueling speculation of a deeper rift rooted in their long professional relationship.
Da Brat said she spoke directly with Usher and conveyed his position in clear terms. "He's been nothing but supportive of plenty of issues that Justin Bieber has had throughout the years," she said, adding that observers could "actively check the records for all that." The statement appeared aimed at countering narratives that the relationship had deteriorated.
She further emphasized that there was no ongoing conflict, describing Bieber as being "on his own journey, dealing with his own reality he's created," while noting that Usher "wishes him nothing but the best" and that there is "no hostility" between the two performers.
The clarification narrows the dispute to differing interpretations of what occurred at the event rather than confirming any confrontation. Da Brat acknowledged that the two men did speak at the after-party, but said the situation escalated publicly after "somebody heard the conversation" and amplified it beyond its original context.
The episode illustrates how quickly narratives can form during awards season, particularly when they involve artists with a long and closely scrutinized history. Usher played a formative role in Bieber's early career, introducing him to industry figures and helping guide his initial rise to fame.
That history has contributed to the traction of recent rumors. Earlier reports, citing unnamed sources, suggested tensions had been "simmering for a long time," linking them to Bieber's early industry connections and evolving professional relationships.
Additional context surrounding Sean "Diddy" Combs has also been folded into the narrative. Reports referenced Combs' 2025 conviction on prostitution charges and a 50-month sentence, adding a layer of controversy that has amplified speculation, though no direct connection to the alleged exchange between Usher and Bieber has been substantiated.
Other factors have reinforced perceptions of strain. Previous reports noted that Bieber did not attend Usher's 2024 Super Bowl halftime show and later unfollowed him on social media, developments that observers interpreted as possible signals of distance.
