Justin Bieber Is Retiring From Music???

Justin Bieber has claimed he is retiring.

In an announcement that no doubt caused rivers of teenage girls' tears across the world, the 19-year-old star has revealed he is taking a step back from the music industry when his new album, Journals, is released next week, and it could be permanent.

The Heartbreaker hitmaker told radio station Power 106 in Los Angeles, California, on Tuesday: 'After the new album, I'm actually retiring man. I'm retiring.'

Radio host Kurt Alexander, better known as Big Boy, reacted by exclaiming 'What?' and an audible gasp could be heard from the radio program's cast of characters moments after Justin announced the news.

However while the star seemed somewhat sure at first, following their reaction, he backtracked slightly suggesting he has not quite made up his mind: 'I want to grow as an artist and I'm taking a step out, I want my music to mature.'

The singer, who has caused controversy in recent months for antics including partying underage in nightclubs and spray-painting public property in Australia, said the main issue is that he is no longer attracted to the idea of fame.