After placing second in a local talent competition with his performance of Ne-Yo’s “So Sick,” Justin Bieber’s career took off. The performance received a lot of attention after his mother, Pattie Mallette, posted it to YouTube. She kept posting videos of Justin online, which eventually helped him become famous.

Pattie’s autobiography, Nowhere But Up, was published by Christian publishing house Revell in 2012. Her challenging childhood—which included abuse, addiction, and being a single mother—is described in the book, along with how her faith gave her hope and enabled her to become a loving parent to Justin.

Their close relationship changed as Justin got older. When Justin turned 19, Pattie told People, “When your kids hit a certain age, your parenting style changes… it is hard letting go.” She considered the pride and emotional difficulties that came with his independence.

When Justin was arrested for street racing in 2014, trouble started. They experienced a period of silence as a result of the strained relationship caused by the incident. In 2015, Justin told Billboard, “I never wanted my mom to be disappointed in me.” “Rebuilding that trust takes time, but things are improving.”

Their relationship has strengthened in spite of their difficult time together. Pattie has continued to encourage Justin and be pleased with the man he is growing into. She commended his moral character and spiritual development in an emotional Instagram post.

“You are an incredible young man, and I am so proud of you. Your decisions clearly reflect your relationship with Jesus,” she wrote. “You are becoming wise and beautiful beyond your years.”

Their story illustrates the difficulties of raising a child in the face of hardship and celebrity. Both mother and son are still healing, developing, and inspiring today thanks to Pattie’s love and strength, which helped guide her son.

Keep the Music Going

Revered singer-songwriter James Taylor has included his son Henry as a full member of his touring band.

Five days after the tragic death of Chris Cornell, Norah Jones paid tribute to the Soundgarden legend with a spine-tingling live solo piano rendition of “Black Hole Sun” that 13 million viewers can’t stop replaying

No Auto-Tune needed here! Fans say Bruno Mars is one of the last true greats after hearing flawless live vocals on soulful cut of his latest number one hit at the 2026 Grammys

20-year-old Sal Valentinetti becomes unforgettable America’s Got Talent audition

Five days after the divorce, my ex-mother-in-law walked into the house and snapped, “Why are you still here?” But she froze when I told her who had paid for every brick…

I won $89 million in the lottery and didn’t tell a soul. Hours later, my son, without a hint of affection, blurted out, “Mom, when are you planning on leaving our house?” Inside, I was devastated, but I didn’t say a word. I left quietly. The next morning, I bought their dream house… and when they discovered it would never be theirs, the real story began.