Justin Bieber, one of the most recognized pop stars of the 21st century, has continuously proven his vocal prowess and versatility as an artist. While he’s often associated with high-energy pop hits and intricate production, some of his most remarkable moments are found in his stripped-back, acoustic performances. These raw, intimate versions of his songs showcase not only his vocal abilities but also his connection to his craft, allowing fans to see a different side of the artist.
Acoustic performances are special because they bring out the core essence of a song, emphasizing melody, emotion, and vocals over production. Throughout his career, Bieber has delivered numerous unforgettable acoustic performances—whether during live concerts, special appearances, or through official releases. This article explores some of the best Justin Bieber acoustic performances, highlighting moments where his talent truly shined in a raw and unplugged setting.
1. “Baby” – Acoustic on The Ellen Show
One of Justin Bieber’s most iconic acoustic performances came early in his career on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, where he performed an unplugged version of his breakout hit, “Baby.” Stripped of the pop production, the acoustic version allowed his vocals to take centre stage, giving fans a more soulful and melodic rendition of the track.
Accompanied by just an acoustic guitar, Bieber’s performance on The Ellen Show demonstrated his ability to captivate an audience without the heavy beats and youthful energy of the original. This acoustic version became a favourite, showing that even his biggest pop hits could be transformed into intimate, emotionally rich moments.
2. “Love Yourself” – Purpose: The Movement
“Love Yourself” is one of Bieber’s most successful singles from his 2015 album Purpose, and its acoustic rendition became iconic. Co-written by Ed Sheeran, the song was already minimalist in production, but when Bieber performed it acoustically during his live shows, the emotional depth became even more apparent.
The live acoustic versions of “Love Yourself” feature just a guitar and Bieber’s vocals, creating a raw, introspective atmosphere. Fans connected deeply with the lyrics, and Bieber’s restrained yet powerful delivery solidified this song as one of his finest acoustic performances.
3. “Boyfriend” – Acoustic Version on Believe Acoustic
The acoustic version of “Boyfriend,” featured on Bieber’s Believe Acoustic album, showcases his ability to reimagine a track originally designed as a pop hit. The original version of “Boyfriend” has heavy production with a rhythmic beat and layered vocals. However, in this stripped-back version, Bieber leans into his R&B influences and delivers a smoother, more relaxed vibe.
His breathy vocal delivery, accompanied by gentle guitar strumming, highlights the versatility of the track. The acoustic version strips away the production to focus on his vocal range and control, making “Boyfriend” a standout performance.
4. “Sorry” – Purpose Tour Acoustic Rendition
“Sorry” was one of the biggest hits from Purpose, with its tropical house beats and infectious chorus. But during his Purpose tour, Bieber often performed an acoustic version that gave the song a completely new life. Slowing down the tempo and softening the delivery, he transformed “Sorry” into a heartfelt ballad.
This acoustic version, with its smooth guitar accompaniment, turned a high-energy dance track into a vulnerable and sincere apology, showcasing Bieber’s ability to convey emotion in different musical settings.
5. “All That Matters” – Acoustic Studio Version
“All That Matters” is a song from Justin Bieber’s Journals project, and its acoustic version truly highlights the emotional depth of the song. The original track is slow and sultry, with an R&B influence, but the acoustic version pares it down to just guitar and vocals, allowing Bieber’s voice to take the spotlight.
In the acoustic studio version, Bieber’s raw delivery conveys the vulnerability and emotion behind the lyrics, turning it into one of his most memorable acoustic performances. The intimate setting of this version highlights the song’s emotional weight, and fans gravitate toward this stripped-back rendition.
6. “Where Are Ü Now” – Acoustic Version on BBC Radio 1
“Where Are Ü Now,” a collaboration between Bieber and producers Skrillex and Diplo, became a global hit due to its innovative production and electronic influences. However, Bieber’s acoustic version, performed on BBC Radio 1, gave the track a completely different feel.
With just a piano and guitar, Bieber’s performance on BBC Radio transformed the electronic-heavy track into an emotional ballad, emphasizing the longing in the lyrics. His vocal control and ability to shift between different musical styles made this acoustic performance one of his most talked-about.
7. “Lonely” – Live Acoustic Performance
“Lonely,” Bieber’s collaboration with Benny Blanco, is one of his most raw and vulnerable songs. The song delves into Bieber’s struggles with fame, mental health, and isolation, and its acoustic performance only magnifies the weight of the lyrics.
Accompanied by just a piano, Bieber’s performance of “Lonely” strips away any excess, leaving nothing but his voice and emotion. His fragile vocal delivery resonates deeply with listeners, making this one of his most emotionally charged acoustic performances to date.
8. “That Should Be Me” – Acoustic Version on My Worlds Acoustic
“That Should Be Me” was initially part of Justin Bieber’s My World 2.0 album, but the acoustic version on My Worlds Acoustic brings out the ballad’s emotional depth. With a soft guitar backing, Bieber’s voice is full of yearning and pain, emphasizing the heartbreak in the lyrics.
This acoustic version strips away the pop production, allowing the vulnerability of the song to shine through. The simplicity of the arrangement highlights Bieber’s voice and makes it one of the standout moments on his acoustic album.
9. “As Long As You Love Me” – Acoustic Version on Believe Acoustic
The original version of “As Long As You Love Me” from Bieber’s Believe album is a pulsating, EDM-infused track. But on Believe Acoustic, he transforms the song into a tender love ballad, highlighting the core emotions behind the lyrics.
This acoustic version, with just a guitar accompaniment, allows Bieber to show off his vocal range and emotional delivery. The stripped-down arrangement makes the song feel more personal and intimate, showcasing the versatility of the track.
10. “Purpose” – Purpose Tour Acoustic Performance
“Purpose,” the title track from his 2015 album, is a deeply introspective and spiritual song. During his Purpose tour, Bieber often performed the track acoustically, giving it a more raw and heartfelt tone.
11. “U Smile” – Acoustic on My Worlds Acoustic
“U Smile,” originally from Justin Bieber’s My World 2.0 album, is a pop ballad with a sweet, uplifting message. On My Worlds Acoustic, Bieber’s stripped-down version of the song takes on a more intimate and personal tone. Accompanied by a simple guitar arrangement, his vocals stand out as sincere and heartfelt, showcasing his ability to convey deep emotion through minimal instrumentation. This acoustic performance highlights Bieber’s vocal control and ability to connect with his audience in a raw, authentic way.
12. “Holy” – Live Acoustic Performance with Chance the Rapper
In 2020, Bieber performed an acoustic rendition of his hit song “Holy” alongside Chance the Rapper. The live acoustic performance, often featured on platforms like SNL and special charity events, brings out the gospel and soulful elements of the song. With acoustic guitar and piano backing, Bieber’s voice takes center stage, radiating warmth and spirituality. The stripped-down version of “Holy” emphasizes the song’s hopeful message, and Chance the Rapper’s verse adds a powerful dynamic to the acoustic collaboration.
13. “One Less Lonely Girl” – Acoustic on My Worlds Acoustic
“One Less Lonely Girl” is a fan-favorite hit from Bieber’s early days, and the acoustic version on My Worlds Acoustic amplifies its romantic vibe. Stripped of its original production, the acoustic performance allows Bieber’s vocals to shine with clarity and tenderness. This version resonated with fans, particularly during his live concerts when he would serenade a fan on stage. The acoustic rendition of “One Less Lonely Girl” retains its sweetness and continues to be one of Bieber’s most memorable love songs.
14. “Cold Water” – Acoustic Version with Major Lazer
“Cold Water,” a collaboration between Major Lazer, Justin Bieber, and MØ, became a global hit thanks to its tropical beats and catchy chorus. However, the acoustic version strips away the production, allowing Bieber’s vocals to shine. During acoustic performances, often shared on platforms like BBC Radio 1 and iHeartRadio, Bieber transforms the dance track into a heartfelt ballad. The raw guitar arrangement brings a new level of emotional depth to the song, showing Bieber’s ability to adapt electronic hits into acoustic masterpieces.
15. “Let Me Love You” – Acoustic with DJ Snake
Bieber’s collaboration with DJ Snake on “Let Me Love You” dominated the charts with its catchy electronic beats. However, Bieber’s acoustic rendition of the song strips away the EDM elements, leaving behind a beautiful melody and raw vocals. The acoustic version highlights the emotional core of the song, turning it into a tender, reflective love song. Bieber’s ability to transform high-energy dance hits into acoustic ballads is on full display in this performance, which remains a favourite among fans.
16. “Mistletoe” – Acoustic Christmas Performance
“Mistletoe,” Bieber’s original Christmas song, became an instant holiday classic after its release. The acoustic version, often performed at holiday concerts and in special appearances, strips the song down to its festive, romantic essence. Accompanied by a simple guitar, Bieber’s smooth vocals evoke the warmth and cosiness of the holiday season. This acoustic rendition is a go-to favourite for fans during the holidays, capturing the magic and simplicity of the season through Bieber’s heartfelt performance.
17. “Heartbreaker” – Acoustic Version from Journals
“Heartbreaker,” one of the standout tracks from Bieber’s Journals project, already leans into a stripped-back R&B sound. The acoustic version takes the emotional vulnerability of the song to another level. With soft guitar chords and Bieber’s soothing vocals, the acoustic performance brings out the rawness of the lyrics, emphasizing the heartbreak and emotional turmoil at the core of the song. Fans connected deeply with this version, as it showcased Bieber’s ability to convey complex emotions through minimalist arrangements.
18. “No Pressure” – Acoustic Version
“No Pressure,” a collaboration with Big Sean from Bieber’s Purpose album, is an R&B-influenced track that gets even smoother in its acoustic form. The acoustic version, performed during intimate live shows, allows Bieber to showcase his vocal range with clarity. With just a guitar backing, the emotional undertones of the song become more pronounced, highlighting Bieber’s ability to deliver both smooth falsettos and deeper, more grounded vocals. The stripped-down version turns the song into a soulful and reflective piece.
19. “2U” – Acoustic Version with David Guetta
Justin Bieber and David Guetta’s “2U” was a chart-topping hit that combined Guetta’s electronic beats with Bieber’s smooth vocals. The acoustic version of “2U” strips away the electronic production, turning the track into a slow, romantic ballad. Bieber’s vocal delivery is more intimate in this version, emphasizing the song’s emotional lyrics about devotion and love. The acoustic rendition, often performed during live shows or special radio appearances, highlights Bieber’s adaptability across genres.
20. “Life Is Worth Living” – Acoustic Performance on Purpose Tour
“Life Is Worth Living,” one of the more spiritual and introspective tracks on the Purpose album, takes on new emotional depth in its acoustic version. Bieber performed the song acoustically during his Purpose tour, often accompanied only by a piano. The stripped-back performance focuses on Bieber’s voice and the song’s uplifting message about redemption and faith. This acoustic version became a fan favourite during his live shows, with many praising the emotional vulnerability Bieber conveyed during the performance.
21. “Mark My Words” – Acoustic Tour Version
“Mark My Words,” the opening track from Bieber’s Purpose album, was often performed acoustically during his tour. The acoustic version transforms the electronic elements of the original track into a heartfelt ballad with simple piano or guitar accompaniment. The vulnerability of the lyrics comes through more intensely in the acoustic rendition, with Bieber’s voice carrying the weight of the song’s promises and emotional longing. The acoustic arrangement adds depth to an already powerful opening track.
22. “Be Alright” – Acoustic on Believe Acoustic
“Be Alright” is one of the more mellow tracks from Bieber’s Believe album, and the acoustic version emphasizes the song’s soothing, hopeful message. Featured on Believe Acoustic, this rendition focuses on soft guitar strumming and Bieber’s comforting vocals, creating a peaceful atmosphere. The song’s message of reassurance and love shines brighter in its acoustic form, making it a fan-favorite track for those looking for calm, positive vibes from Bieber.
23. “Company” – Acoustic Performance
“Company,” from the Purpose album, is a smooth pop song with catchy hooks and an upbeat rhythm. However, in its acoustic form, performed during his tour and special radio appearances, “Company” takes on a more intimate tone. The stripped-back version focuses on Bieber’s vocals and the song’s central theme of companionship, turning it from a danceable track into a more reflective, emotional performance. The acoustic rendition offers a new perspective on the song’s lyrics, making it feel more personal and heartfelt.
24. “Take You” – Acoustic on Believe Acoustic
“Take You” is another standout from Bieber’s Believe album that received a special acoustic treatment on Believe Acoustic. The original version of the song is upbeat and full of energy, but the acoustic version slows it down, allowing Bieber to showcase his vocal agility. Accompanied by simple guitar strumming, the acoustic performance highlights the romantic nature of the song, making it a smoother and more relaxed rendition.
25. “Never Say Never” – Acoustic Performance
One of Bieber’s most motivational tracks, “Never Say Never,” became an anthem of perseverance and determination. The acoustic version of the song, often performed live, dials down the intensity of the original production and focuses on Bieber’s vocals and the empowering message of the lyrics. This stripped-down version resonates with fans who appreciate the simplicity and sincerity of Bieber’s performance, making it a memorable acoustic moment in his career.
26. “Down to Earth” – Acoustic on My Worlds Acoustic
“Down to Earth” is a deeply emotional track from Bieber’s early days, addressing personal struggles and family challenges. The acoustic version of My Worlds Acoustic amplifies the raw emotion of the song. Accompanied by soft guitar chords, Bieber’s voice takes centre stage, capturing the vulnerability and heartache in the lyrics. The acoustic performance of “Down to Earth” remains one of his most touching and intimate moments, offering fans a glimpse into his emotional depth.
27. “Bad Day” – Acoustic Version from Journals
“Bad Day” from Bieber’s Journals project is a melancholic track that gets even more emotionally resonant in its acoustic form. The minimal guitar accompaniment highlights the sadness and introspection of the lyrics, with Bieber’s vocals delivering the song’s themes of heartache and disappointment. The acoustic version strips away all distractions, allowing Bieber’s voice and the emotional weight of the song to shine.
28. “Get Used to It” – Acoustic Version
“Get Used to It,” a lesser-known track from Purpose, received an acoustic performance that resonated with fans due to its smooth R&B vibe. The stripped-back version emphasizes Bieber’s falsetto and the laid-back, romantic feel of the song. Performed live during intimate sets, this acoustic rendition allowed fans to appreciate the subtleties of the song’s melody and Bieber’s vocal delivery.
29. “What Do You Mean?” – Acoustic on Purpose: The Movement
“What Do You Mean?” was one of Bieber’s biggest hits from Purpose, and its acoustic version offered a new perspective on the song. The upbeat, tropical house production of the original is replaced by a mellow guitar, turning the track into a soft, reflective ballad. This acoustic performance highlights Bieber’s vocal range and emotional delivery, offering fans a more intimate version of the global hit.
30. “Turn to You” – Acoustic Mother’s Day Tribute
“Turn to You” is a special song Bieber wrote for his mother, released as a tribute to Mother’s Day. The acoustic version of the track focuses on Bieber’s heartfelt lyrics and the simple guitar arrangement, turning the song into a touching and personal tribute. This performance resonated with fans, showcasing Bieber’s softer side and his deep appreciation for his mother’s sacrifices.
31. “Die in Your Arms” – Acoustic on Believe Acoustic
“Die in Your Arms,” from the Believe album, is a throwback to Motown-style pop with a groovy, upbeat vibe. The acoustic version, featured on Believe Acoustic, strips down the track to its soulful core. With just a guitar and Bieber’s smooth vocals, the performance emphasizes the song’s melodic charm and the romantic message behind the lyrics. This acoustic rendition allows fans to appreciate the depth of Bieber’s vocal range and his ability to channel old-school R&B influences.
32. “One Time” – Acoustic on My Worlds Acoustic
“One Time,” one of Justin Bieber’s earliest hits, received a refreshing acoustic treatment on his My Worlds Acoustic album. The original track is known for its catchy beats and youthful energy, but in the acoustic version, Bieber slows it down, highlighting the sweetness and innocence of the lyrics. Accompanied by a gentle guitar, Bieber’s vocals are the main focus, and the stripped-back arrangement makes this performance a nostalgic trip for fans who’ve followed him since the beginning of his career.
33. “Hold Tight” – Acoustic Version from Journals
“Hold Tight,” one of the sensual and sultry tracks from Bieber’s Journals project, becomes even more intimate in its acoustic form. The acoustic performance highlights the emotional intensity of the song, with Bieber’s breathy vocal delivery taking center stage. The soft guitar backing creates a mellow, atmospheric vibe that perfectly complements the passionate lyrics, making this acoustic version one of the standout performances from the Journals era.
34. “Love Me” – Acoustic on My Worlds Acoustic
“Love Me” was a catchy pop anthem when it first debuted, driven by its upbeat tempo and fun production. However, the acoustic version, featured on My Worlds Acoustic, strips the song of its electronic elements and focuses on Bieber’s vocal delivery. The acoustic rendition brings out a more vulnerable, playful side of the track, offering fans a fresh take on one of his early hits. Bieber’s voice shines in this version, and the simplicity of the guitar arrangement adds an extra layer of emotional depth.
35. “Fa La La” – Acoustic with Boyz II Men
“Fa La La,” a holiday-themed track from Bieber’s Under the Mistletoe album, features the legendary R&B group Boyz II Men. The acoustic version of this song, performed alongside the group, is a masterclass in harmonies and vocal control. Bieber’s smooth delivery blends beautifully with Boyz II Men’s iconic harmonies, and the stripped-back acoustic performance gives the song a timeless, classic feel. This version became a fan favourite for holiday performances, showcasing Bieber’s ability to collaborate with R&B legends.
36. “All Around Me” – Acoustic Version
“All Around Me,” a track from Bieber’s Changes album, is one of the more intimate, personal songs in his discography. The acoustic version strips away the production, leaving only Bieber’s vocals and a soft guitar accompaniment. This performance highlights the vulnerability in the song’s lyrics, which speak to themes of love and devotion. The raw, unplugged nature of this acoustic rendition allows Bieber’s emotional depth to shine, making it one of the most tender performances from his later career.
37. “Habitual” – Acoustic on Changes: The Movement
Another standout acoustic performance from Bieber’s Changes album is “Habitual.” While the original version features a smooth, R&B-influenced production, the acoustic rendition brings a new warmth and intimacy to the track. Bieber’s voice, accompanied by minimal instrumentation, conveys a deeper sense of emotional vulnerability. The soft guitar strumming and stripped-back vocals make this performance feel personal and introspective, aligning with the album’s overarching themes of love and commitment.
38. “Turn to Me” – Acoustic Studio Version
“Turn to Me,” a lesser-known track that Bieber wrote as a tribute to his mother, is especially moving in its acoustic form. With just a guitar accompanying his heartfelt lyrics, Bieber delivers an emotional performance that resonates deeply with listeners. The acoustic version emphasizes the raw emotion behind the song, showcasing Bieber’s ability to convey love and gratitude through his music. Fans appreciated the sincerity and intimacy of this performance, especially given the personal significance of the song.
39. “Home to Mama” – Acoustic with Cody Simpson
“Home to Mama,” a collaboration between Bieber and fellow musician Cody Simpson, is a soft acoustic ballad that showcases the duo’s harmonies and chemistry. The acoustic version, with just guitar backing, feels organic and heartfelt, capturing the laid-back, romantic vibe of the song. Bieber’s vocals blend effortlessly with Simpson’s, and the stripped-back arrangement allows the emotional sincerity of the lyrics to shine. This acoustic performance quickly became a fan favourite, particularly among those who appreciate Bieber’s more relaxed, intimate tracks.
40. “Yellow Raincoat” – Acoustic Version from Journals
“Yellow Raincoat,” a track from Bieber’s Journals project, is another example of his ability to deliver emotionally raw performances. The acoustic version of the song strips down the production to highlight the reflective and melancholic nature of the lyrics. With soft guitar chords and a minimalist arrangement, Bieber’s voice takes centre stage, conveying the introspective tone of the track. The acoustic rendition adds depth to the already contemplative song, making it one of his most memorable acoustic performances.
Justin Bieber’s acoustic performances offer a different side to the artist that fans don’t always get to see in his high-production pop hits. These stripped-down versions focus on his vocal ability, emotional depth, and connection to his music, allowing fans to experience his songs in a more intimate way. Whether on stage, in the studio, or during special appearances, Bieber’s acoustic performances consistently demonstrate his versatility as an artist and his undeniable talent as a vocalist.
From the heartfelt rendition of “Love Yourself” to the emotional power of “Lonely,” Bieber’s acoustic moments serve as a reminder of his ability to captivate audiences with just a guitar or piano and his voice. These performances stand out as some of the best in his career, offering fans a glimpse of his raw talent and the emotional depth behind his music.