What Do You Mean?

About this song

Justin Bieber first announced the song a month before its release on Ryan Seacrest's nationally syndicated radio show. To build anticipation, he enlisted a series of celebrities to count down and preview it on Twitter, and he leaked the lyrics in parts to fans via direct messages nine days before release. The song became the fastest to reach number one on iTunes after its release and debuted at number one on the Billboard Hot 100, marking Bieber's first number one hit.

What it's about

Bieber has said the song reflects the indecision and veiled sentiments he often heard from women when talking to them. The title question captures his puzzlement at what they actually mean.

Fun facts

• Sampled in 12 other songs, like “Train Derails (Deluxe "Re-Trimmed Chest" Edition) by cs188”.
• Covered 22 times, including “What Do You Mean? by Emrys”.
• Written by Justin Bieber, MdL and Poo Bear.
• Produced by Justin Bieber and MdL.
• Recorded at Record Plant.