Friday, May 11, 2012 12:54pm ET by  
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Justin Bieber and Usher on their relationship "brother to brother, creator to creator"

After first meeting 4 years ago, Justin Bieber and his mentor Usher sat down together for an interview with Billboard magazine to discuss the growth of their relationship.

The superstars explained that they are both performing at the 2012 Billboard Awards ceremony and Usher said the night will be "an unveiling" for himself and the 18-year-old alike:

"It's an unveiling for both of us, and I'm excited that we're going to be able to do it together. Since Justin's first album we've been piggybacking—brother to brother, creator to creator. We've always managed to come out around the same time and show support for one another."

Bieber spoke about his new single 'Boyfriend', which showcases his musical maturity and shift in style, and revealed that while he doesn't want to alienate his young audience he needs to be able to progress as he gets older:

"I don't want to lose my young fans, but I also want to mature and develop. I always keep one foot out of my comfort zone, trying new things and experimenting—if you don't, people will get bored. Seeing the smiles on people's faces and how I affect them when I perform makes me want to give them the absolute best experience they can possibly get."

Usher added that he's proud of the fact that Bieber understands the needs of his audience and said: "I'm happy that Justin knows that without me even saying that. You really do want to make sure that you bring along fans that have always been there, but make sure that you grow and chart new territory."

The 'Climax' hitmaker even praised Bieber's skills as an MC, admitting: "He's always been a dope MC. C'mon. Easy. "Boyfriend" was really the defining moment; it became No. 1 everywhere, which is what dreams are made of."

Watch Bieber's music video for 'Boyfriend' below: