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Justin Bieber's SA surprise

Image: via Getty

Teen idol Justin Bieber has announced on his Twitter acccount that he will be including South African performances on his Believe tour.

@justinbieber had this to say: "oh yeah...and just agreed to routing for EUROPE, RUSSIA, MIDDLE EAST, ASIA, AUSTRALIA and NZ, South America, and S AFRICA BELIEVE TOUR dates".

While many parents shake their heads in disbelief at the reaction the young star provokes, kids of all ages seem drawn to his music. My own children have memorised his songs, and given me more brainworms than I care to mention- I'll be sitting at my desk humming one of his infernally catchy tunes and wondering what happened to the music I used to enjoy...

Harmless pop, or negative influence?

For the most part, Bieber's lyrics are typical teen pop fodder- holding girlfriends in his arms, first kisses and sad break-ups, although many parents are concerned at the response he generates in their own kids, most of whom have yet to experience any kind of romantic love. But then, that's what pop music has always done- driven a firm wedge into the generation gap.

I'm a little nervous of telling my 12-year-old about the unconfirmed tour, as I suspect it will involve some intense monetary negotiations, but I am glad that Bieber trimmed his hair recently, as his former "Bieber-Do" was not the best look on other teen boys.

As much as many peopple scoff at him, or, worse, hate him, he is actually quite a talented young man whose impact on the lives of our kids is tangible. Perhaps I shouldn't be so quick to ignore just how much 18-year-old Bieber is an influence on my easily-influenced kids. I may even find that I could be a better parent for gritting my teeth and bopping along in the car along with my Bieber-crazed kids.

Do you think Justin Bieber's visit is going to affect your kids?

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