Usher's tough love for Justin Bieber

  Usher is usually diplomatic when it comes to his one-time protege, Justin Bieber and the young star's recent troubles.

However, even the singer has to admit that he's not that pleased with Bieber's behavior lately.

"Our relationship is more man-to-man now," he told Billboard Magazine. "He's making his own decisions and it's important to show support."

Still, it's not easy for him to watch the singer go through tough times. In the past year, Bieber has had his fair share of legal troubles.

Most recently, the singer was arrested in August on dangerous driving and assault charges stemming from an altercation with paparazzi. Bieber's lawyer, Brian Greenspan, who has said his client is cooperating with authorities, told ABC News through an intermediary that the 20-year-old has not yet entered a plea in that case, which is proceeding as a misdemeanor.

"I can say I'm not happy with all the choices my friend has made, but I'm supportive of him. I try my hardest to give as much positive reinforcement as I can," Usher said. "I'll punch him in the f****** chest when I need to, and give him a hug and kiss when I need to. It's more than just mentoring. I love the kid."

Usher also talked about his album, which was supposed to have come out this fall, but has been indefinitely pushed back.

"I just ain't ready," he said, "meaning I have more that I want to say and more that I want to do. My process is pretty different. L.A. Reid will tell you, it takes two albums to make one with Usher."