What Do You Mean?

Justin Bieber stepped away from his teen pop roots with What Do You Mean?, a track that arrived on August 28, 2015, to redefine his sound. Produced by MdL and co-produced by the singer himself, this tropical house-infused anthem became the lead single for his fourth studio album, Purpose. The song marked a distinct shift in tone, trading teenage angst for a more mature, danceable vibe that resonated with audiences worldwide.

The lyrics capture the frustration of mixed signals in a relationship, centering on the confusion when body language contradicts spoken words. Bieber sings about a partner who acts one way but says another, creating a dynamic where the narrator constantly asks for clarification. This theme of romantic ambiguity drove the song's catchy hook and helped it connect with listeners dealing with similar dating scenarios.

Critics praised the production for its blend of electropop and tropical house elements, noting how the ukulele-like synth melody gave the track a fresh, island-inspired feel. Upon release, the single debuted at number one on the US Billboard Hot 100, becoming Bieber's third consecutive solo chart-topper in America. It also climbed to the top of charts in Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the UK, proving its global appeal immediately. [edit]