Justin Bieber has been hinting about Selena Gomez for months, either through Instagrams or his Music Mondays set.
Now, the heartthrob has verbalized — without music or social media props — that he still loves his ex-girlfriend and that his recent single “All That Matters” is about their relationship.
Chatting to Los Angeles’ Power 106 radio station earlier this week, the 19-year-old revealed:
“‘All That Matters’ was written when I was in a great place in my relationship, and at that time, you know she was all that mattered in my life.”
After confirming host Big Boy’s query that the song was about “S.G,” with a simple, “It really was,” Justin explained how Gomez became his muse.
“I wrote the best music once my heart was broken. Yeah, for real,” the singer said, before insisting he was now, “Just chillin.’”
Of his feelings for Selena, Bieber admitted , “That was definitely love.”
According to reports about ‘Jelena,’ their teenage-loved-up-ness lasted just over two years before devolving from November 2012 into arguments and a distinctly platonic hug at the Billboard Music Awards, while eyed by Taylor Swift.
“It affected us too, especially when we are in front of so many people,” Justin told Power 106. “It’s such a public thing and it’s just hard for the both of us. But you know, she’s a great woman. I love her ’til this day.”
However, despite Bieber’s praise of Selena there appear to be no reconciliation plans.
During the interview the teen singer revealed the pair aren’t even talking, although he did express the firm view that he and the Spring Breakers actress will be pals down the line.
“I think we’re going to be the greatest of friends,” Bieber mused, adding .”Right now we’re taking a little time and not talking.”
Meanwhile, the pop prince addressed his same interview “retiring” comments at his Believe movie premiere in Los Angeles on Wednesday night, even after sources said he was joking and Scooter Braun told Access Hollywood the singer is just taking a music business break.
Quizzed on-site by MTV’s Christina Garibaldi who asked if his remarks about “quitting” music were a joke, Justin replied:
“I don’t know if that’s a joke. I don’t know. I don’t know.” Asked about his 2014 plans, he added:
“I wanna get to know my family more.” Bieber also said he wanted to “figure out myself as a man,” adding, “I’ve been away so much, I’ve missed a lot of great years with my brother and sister.”
The pop prince didn’t forget to thank fans at the premiere.
“I want to say thank you so much to each and every one of you for staying by my side. I love you with all my heart,” he said, before promising, “something special” in the New Year.
While there’s no word on what Bieber’s surprise might be if it’s not his just filmed “ Confident “ music video, chances are it’s not likely to be Gomez.