Usher Picks His Protege

R&B star Usheris giving teenage singer Justin Bieber a helping hand by making the wannabe his protege.

The Yeah! hitmaker met Canadian Bieber by chance last year and he was so impressed by the 15-year-old's vocals, he set up an audition for the youngster with Def Jam Records boss Antonio 'L.A.' Reid.

Bieber, who has gained a strong fanbase after posting videos of himself on YouTub, landed a recording contract with Def Jam last October and Usher officially introduced the teen to industry professionals at a Los Angeles bash on Monday.

Usher has high hopes for the young talent: "(Bieber)'s a young phenomenon. He's definitely a priority for me and Island Def Jam."