Single Sales of Justin Bieber’s “Lonely” Surge 1,400% Amid Diddy Scandal

The Surge in “Lonely” Sales

The sales of Justin Bieber’s single “Lonely” have skyrocketed by 1,400% three years after its release, thanks to the attention from the ongoing sexual misconduct scandal involving rapper Diddy. According to a report by Forbes on October 7, the song has surged back into the spotlight as fans noticed connections between the lyrics and Diddy’s current situation.

In the past week, over 1,500 copies were sold, a significant increase compared to just under 100 copies the previous week. This demonstrates the unique appeal of “Lonely,” even though Justin had no plans to promote the track.

Lyrics Reflecting Loneliness and the Cost of Fame

Singer Justin Bieber in a scene facing his younger self.

“Lonely” was co-written by Justin Bieber and producer Benny Blanco and is part of Bieber’s album Justice and Blanco’s Friends Keep Secrets 2. The lyrics express feelings of loneliness and the price of fame experienced from a young age. Young actor Jacob Tremblay plays Justin as a teenager in the music video. Some lines convey the pain and emotional deprivation that a young star must endure:
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“And everybody saw me sick  
And it felt like no one gave a s**t  
They criticized the things I did as an idiot kid…”

“I’m so lonely.”

The Relationship Between Bieber and Diddy

Singer Justin Bieber (left) and rapper Diddy during an interview in 2008.

According to sources, the renewed popularity of the song is partly linked to the past relationship between Justin Bieber and Diddy. Currently, Diddy is facing three serious charges: sex trafficking, conspiracy to extort, and transporting individuals for prostitution. Diddy, who once served as Bieber’s mentor, has been detained and could face life in prison if convicted.

Fan Speculations About Bieber

Justin Bieber’s “Yummy” music video. The video currently has nearly 800 million views after four years of release.

Many fans are questioning the darker aspects of the relationship between Justin and Diddy, suggesting that Justin may have been a victim of abuse. In addition to “Lonely,” fans are revisiting the music video for “Yummy” (2020), believing that the video contains messages reflecting the sexual misconduct cases in the entertainment industry.