Justin Timberlake
Disco, Pop • Memphis, United States
Early Life and Career
Justin Randall Timberlake was born on January 31, 1981, in Memphis, Tennessee. Raised in a musical family, he began performing as a child, appearing on Star Search and later becoming a cast member on The All New Mickey Mouse Club. Alongside future pop stars like Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera, Timberlake honed his musical and performance skills during these early years.
In 1995, he became a founding member of NSYNC, the boy band that would become one of the best-selling music groups of all time. The group's incredible success, including their record-breaking album No Strings Attached (2000), established Timberlake as a prominent figure in pop music.
Breakthrough and Major Success
Timberlake's solo career launched in 2002 with his debut album Justified, which showcased his transition from boy band pop to a more mature R&B sound. The album's hit singles "Cry Me a River" and "Rock Your Body" demonstrated his ability to create innovative, genre-blending music.
His second album, FutureSex/LoveSounds (2006), solidified his status as a solo artist. The album's lead single "SexyBack" became a global phenomenon, topping charts and redefining contemporary pop music. Collaborations with producers like Timbaland and The Neptunes helped Timberlake craft a unique musical identity that bridged pop, R&B, and dance music.
Throughout his career, Timberlake has released critically acclaimed albums including The 20/20 Experience (2013), which became the best-selling album of that year. His musical versatility has allowed him to consistently reinvent his sound while maintaining commercial success.
Musical Style and Impact
Timberlake's musical approach blends multiple genres, drawing from pop, R&B, funk, and electronic music. His innovative style has influenced numerous contemporary artists, earning him the nickname "Prince of Pop". He has collaborated with diverse artists including Madonna, Timbaland, and Jay-Z, demonstrating his wide-ranging musical capabilities.
Beyond music, Timberlake successfully expanded into acting, starring in critically acclaimed films like The Social Network (2010) and Friends with Benefits (2011). His entertainment industry versatility has been a hallmark of his career.
Legacy and Recognition
With over 88 million records sold worldwide, Timberlake is one of the best-selling music artists of all time. His numerous accolades include ten Grammy Awards, four Emmy Awards, and multiple Billboard Music Awards. He has been recognized for his significant contributions to contemporary popular music.
Notable achievements include hit singles like "SexyBack", "My Love", and "Can't Stop the Feeling!", which showcase his ability to create infectious, chart-topping music. His musical and cultural impact extends beyond album sales, influencing pop music's evolution in the early 21st century.
Timberlake has also been praised for his philanthropic efforts and consistent reinvention as an artist. From boy band member to solo artist, from musician to actor, he has demonstrated remarkable adaptability and creative vision.
Beyond his professional achievements, he has maintained a significant cultural presence, consistently staying relevant through strategic collaborations, innovative musical projects, and crossover entertainment endeavors. His ability to seamlessly transition between music, film, and other creative domains has solidified his status as a multifaceted entertainment icon.
Quotes
“I just want to do R&B. It's what I grew up listening to”
“We're people and we're different, all of us. And we should be using our differences to bring ourselves closer together.”
“I think where I grew up in America has a lot of influence. Growing up in Tennessee—very central of the country—Memphis is known as the birthplace of rock & roll, but also the home of the blues”
“I benefited from a system that condones misogyny and racism”
Career Timeline
Songwriters Hall of Fame Award
Received Contemporary Icon Award from Songwriters Hall of Fame and honorary Doctor of Music degree from Berklee College of Music.
Super Bowl LII Halftime Show
Headlined Super Bowl LII halftime show in Minneapolis, performing medley of songs with Tennessee Kids and Minnesota Marching Band. Featured tribute to Prince.
Hollywood Walk of Fame Star
Reunited with NSYNC bandmates to receive star on Hollywood Walk of Fame on April 30, 2018, cementing his legacy as major entertainer.
Memphis Music Hall of Fame Induction
Inducted as the youngest member of the Memphis Music Hall of Fame, honoring his contributions to music.
The 20/20 Experience Success
Album becomes best-selling album of 2013 with record-breaking digital sales. Named 2013 Artist of the Year by iTunes with fastest-selling album on iTunes Store.
FutureSex/LoveSounds Release
Second album debut at #1 on Billboard 200 and became biggest iTunes pre-order album at the time. Established him as a major solo artist and critical darling.
Super Bowl XXXVIII Halftime Show
Performed with Janet Jackson before 140 million viewers in a performance that sparked the 'wardrobe malfunction' controversy, becoming a defining moment in pop culture history.
Solo Career Launch
Released debut solo album Justified and performed first solo single 'Like I Love You' at MTV Video Music Awards. Marked his transition from boy band member to solo artist.
NSYNC Formation
Timberlake recruited JC Chasez and joined the boy band NSYNC, which would become one of the best-selling boy bands of all time with over 70 million records sold worldwide.


