If there's one thing life continues to teach, it's that through Usher and YouTube all things are possible. Fifteen-year-old Justin Bieber may have a fancy record deal now, but growing up in Stratford, Ontario where did a meeting with L.A. Reid fit in?
Well, this Canada teen is one of those effortless talents: Justin posted to YouTube his informal Usher, Ne-Yo and Justin Timberlake covers; unlike the multitudes of copycats, however, Justin raked in Leave-Britney-Alone-level views -- which quickly led to a manager phone call and a face-to-face with Usher.
Hence the cameo for Justin's first video and lead single, "One Time," which you can check out below. Hey, when Usher's away, the kids will play? ... or at least throw family-friendly house parties. Alongside "One Time," Justin's debut album features production from The-Dream and Tricky Stewart -- and dude hasn't even graduated high school.
Does Justin's rise remind anyone else of Esmee Denters? YouTube covers sent the wannabe singer from Oosterbeek, Netherlands on a similar path; although Esmee signed with Justin Timberlake's label, while (according to Justin Bieber himself) Justin passed up J.T.'s offer to work with Usher and L.A. Reid. Battle of the YouTube finds!