Career Timeline of Justin Timberlake: Major Achievements and Milestones

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Justin Timberlake

Discover the career path of Justin Timberlake, from the first major opportunity to industry-changing achievements.

Justin Timberlake, an American singer, songwriter, actor, record producer, and dancer, is recognized as the "Prince of Pop" and a highly influential figure in popular music. He is one of the best-selling music artists globally, with approximately 88 million records sold worldwide. His multifaceted career spans music and acting, solidifying his place in entertainment and pop culture.

1993: Became a Mouseketeer

From 1993 to 1995, Justin Timberlake was a Mouseketeer on The All New Mickey Mouse Club.

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1995: Recruitment to NSYNC

In 1995, Justin Timberlake recruited JC Chasez to be in an all-male singing group that eventually became NSYNC.

1996: NSYNC Recording and Performing in Europe

In 1996, NSYNC began recording and performing in Europe; Timberlake and Chasez were the lead singers.

1998: NSYNC's Rise to Prominence in the US

In 1998, NSYNC rose to prominence in the United States with the release of their self-titled debut studio album, which sold 11 million copies and included the single "Tearin' Up My Heart".

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2000: Appearance in 'Model Behavior'

In 2000, Justin Timberlake appeared in 'The Wonderful World of Disney' movie 'Model Behavior', playing Jason Sharpe.

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2000: Release of 'No Strings Attached' Album

In 2000, NSYNC released their third studio album 'No Strings Attached', which sold 2.4 million copies in the first week, becoming the fastest-selling album of all time, and included the number one singles "It's Gonna Be Me", "Bye Bye Bye", and "This I Promise You". NSYNC also performed at the Academy Awards in 2000.

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2001: Writing 'Gone' for Michael Jackson

Around 2001, Justin Timberlake originally wrote the single "Gone" for Michael Jackson, but he turned the song down, and it was instead recorded by NSYNC.

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2001: Release of 'Celebrity' Album

In 2001, NSYNC's fourth studio album 'Celebrity' was released, selling 1.8 million copies in the first week and spawning top-five singles such as 'Girlfriend'.

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2001: Establishment of Justin Timberlake Foundation

Since 2001, Justin Timberlake has been active in charitable pursuits through his "Justin Timberlake Foundation", which initially funded music education programs in schools and has since broadened its agenda.

August 2002: MTV Video Music Awards Performance and 'Like I Love You' Premiere

In August 2002, Justin Timberlake performed at the 2002 MTV Video Music Awards, where he premiered his debut solo single "Like I Love You".

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2002: NSYNC's Dissolution and Solo Career

By 2002, NSYNC went on an indefinite hiatus, leading to Justin Timberlake partnering with Pharrell Williams and Timbaland to start working on new music and pursuing his solo career.

2002: Beginning of Solo Career with "Justified" Album

In 2002, Justin Timberlake began his solo career with the release of his debut album, Justified, which marked a change in his fashion and style.

2002: Release of Debut Album Justified

In 2002, Justin Timberlake released his debut album, Justified, which is primarily an R&B album but also includes influences from dance-pop, funk, and soul music and was influenced by Michael Jackson and Stevie Wonder. He co-headlined the supporting tour, Justified and Stripped Tour, with Christina Aguilera.

2002: Release of 'Justified' Album

In 2002, Justin Timberlake released his debut solo album, Justified, which sold over 10 million copies and received triple platinum certification by the RIAA.

2002: NSYNC Hiatus

In 2002, upon the completion of the Celebrity Tour, the group NSYNC went on an indefinite hiatus. NSYNC also performed at the 2002 Winter Olympics.

2002: First Celebrity on 'Punk'd'

Near the end of 2002, Justin Timberlake was the first celebrity to appear on 'Punk'd', created by Ashton Kutcher.

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2003: The Justified & Stripped Tour, McDonald's Campaign, and 'Work It' Feature

In 2003, Justin Timberlake co-headlined The Justified & Stripped Tour with Christina Aguilera. He also recorded "I'm Lovin' It" for McDonald's and was featured on Nelly's song "Work It".

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2003: Opening of "Chi" Restaurant

In 2003, Justin Timberlake co-owned "Chi", a restaurant that opened in West Hollywood, California.

2003: Spoofing 'Punk'd' on Saturday Night Live

In 2003, Justin Timberlake spoofed Ashton Kutcher and 'Punk'd' in an episode of NBC's Saturday Night Live, and co-starred in The Barry Gibb Talk Show with Jimmy Fallon.

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2003: Rolling Stone Names Timberlake Biggest Pop Star of the Year

In 2003, Rolling Stone named Justin Timberlake the biggest pop star of the year and featured him on the magazine's cover, declaring him "The New King of Pop".

February 2004: Super Bowl XXXVIII Halftime Show Incident

In February 2004, during the Super Bowl XXXVIII halftime show, Justin Timberlake performed with Janet Jackson, where an incident occurred resulting in the brief exposure of Jackson's breast, leading to the term "wardrobe malfunction".

2004: Focus on Acting Career

After the Super Bowl incident in February 2004, Justin Timberlake put his recording career on hold to act in several films, including Edison Force, Alpha Dog, Black Snake Moan, and Richard Kelly's Southland Tales.

October 2005: Grammy Association Award for Humanitarian Efforts

In October 2005, the Grammy Association presented Justin Timberlake with an award for his humanitarian efforts in Tennessee, alongside writer/director Craig Brewer.

2005: Launch of William Rast Clothing Line

In 2005, Justin Timberlake launched the William Rast clothing line with his childhood friend Juan ("Trace") Ayala.

2005: Creation of 'FutureSex/LoveSounds'

Justin Timberlake created his second studio album, FutureSex/LoveSounds, from 2005 to 2006.

July 18, 2006: Direct-to-video Release of 'Edison Force'

On July 18, 2006, the film 'Edison Force', in which Justin Timberlake starred as a journalist and filmed in 2004, received a direct-to-video release.

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September 12, 2006: Release of 'FutureSex/LoveSounds'

On September 12, 2006, Justin Timberlake released his second studio album, FutureSex/LoveSounds, which debuted at number-one on the Billboard 200 album chart.

October 2006: Focus on Music Career

In October 2006, Justin Timberlake announced his focus on his music career rather than his film roles and performed at the 2006 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show.

2006: Opening of "Destino" Restaurant

In 2006, Justin Timberlake co-owned "Destino", a restaurant that opened in New York.

2006: Release of FutureSex/LoveSounds

In 2006, Justin Timberlake released his album FutureSex/LoveSounds, which explored a broader sound with elements of rap, rock, funk, soul, gospel, new wave, opera, and world music. Timberlake drew inspiration from David Bowie and Prince during the production.

May 18, 2007: Release of 'Shrek the Third'

On May 18, 2007, Justin Timberlake voiced Prince Artie Pendragon in the animated film 'Shrek the Third'.

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June 2007: Forbes Calculates Timberlake's Earnings

In June 2007, Forbes calculated that Justin Timberlake earned $44 million between June 2007 and June 2008 from his music, tour, commercials, and hospitality.

November 12, 2007: Host of PGA Tour Las Vegas Tournament

On November 12, 2007, the PGA Tour announced that Justin Timberlake would become the host of the tour's Las Vegas tournament starting in 2008. The tournament's name was changed to the Justin Timberlake Shriners Hospitals for Children Open.

November 2007: Donation to Wildlife Warriors

In November 2007, Justin Timberlake donated $100,000 from takings from his Australian tour to Wildlife Warriors, founded by Steve Irwin.

2007: FutureSex/LoveShow Tour Success

According to Billboard, the FutureSex/LoveShow tour was the third highest-grossing concert tour of 2007 and the highest-grossing tour led by a solo artist.

2007: Opening of "Southern Hospitality" Restaurant and Launch of William Rast Clothing Line

In 2007, Justin Timberlake co-owned "Southern Hospitality", a restaurant that opened in New York. Also in 2007, he launched the William Rast clothing line with childhood friend Juan ("Trace") Ayala.

2007: Voicing Artie in 'Shrek the Third'

In 2007, Justin Timberlake voiced Artie in 'Shrek the Third'.

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2007: The New York Times on Timberlake's Sex-Symbol Edge

In 2007, The New York Times noted that Justin Timberlake had developed a "sex-symbol edge" since his last tour for his 2002 album, Justified.

2007: Timberlake Appears on Time 100 List

Justin Timberlake appeared for the first time on the Time 100 list of most influential people by Time in 2007.

March 23, 2008: Donations to Memphis Museums

On March 23, 2008, Justin Timberlake donated $100,000 to the Memphis Rock N' Soul Museum and another $100,000 to the Memphis Music Foundation.

April 2008: IMG Manages Endorsements

Since April 2008, IMG has managed the celebrity endorsements for Justin Timberlake and his commercial products.

June 2008: Timberlake Ranked Among Highest-Paid Music Personalities

In June 2008, Justin Timberlake was ranked as the 4th best-paid music personality in the world, according to Forbes, earning $44 million between June 2007 and June 2008.

2008: Starring Role in 'The Love Guru'

In 2008, Justin Timberlake enhanced his acting career by landing a starring role in the film 'The Love Guru'.

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2008: Hosting Justin Timberlake Shriners Hospitals for Children Open

In 2008, Justin Timberlake hosted the Justin Timberlake Shriners Hospitals for Children Open, playing in the celebrity pro-am and hosting a charity concert.

2009: Hosting Justin Timberlake Shriners Hospitals for Children Open for the Second Time

In 2009, Justin Timberlake hosted the Justin Timberlake Shriners Hospitals for Children Open for the second time. Timberlake's contribution to Shriners Hospitals for Children was the single most valuable celebrity endorsement in the U.S. during 2009, and worth over $US9 million.

2009: Major Endorsements

In 2009, Justin Timberlake's major endorsements included Sony electronic products, Givenchy's men's fragrance "Play", the Audi A1, and Callaway Golf Company products.

2009: Reopening of Mirimichi Golf Course

On July 25, 2009, Justin Timberlake reopened the redeveloped Big Creek Golf Course as the eco-friendly Mirimichi Golf Course in his hometown of Millington, Tennessee.

2010: Starring Role in 'The Social Network' and Yogi Bear

In 2010, Justin Timberlake landed a starring role in the film 'The Social Network' and voiced Boo-Boo Bear in 'Yogi Bear'.

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2010: Hope for Haiti Now Telethon Performance

In 2010, Justin Timberlake participated in the Hope for Haiti Now telethon, performing "Hallelujah". The cover was made available for digital download with all proceeds donated to organizations doing relief work in Haiti.

2011: Tom Ford Starts Dressing Timberlake

In 2011, American fashion designer Tom Ford started dressing Justin Timberlake, creating more than 600 exclusive pieces for The 20/20 Experience World Tour.

2011: Starring Roles in 'Bad Teacher', 'Friends with Benefits', and 'In Time'

In 2011, Justin Timberlake starred in the films 'Bad Teacher', 'Friends with Benefits', and 'In Time'.

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2011: Endorsement Deals

In 2011, Justin Timberlake's major endorsements included Myspace and he teamed up with Capital One to announce the winners of the inaugural Capital One Cup.

2011: Timberlake Voices Support for LGBT Equality

In 2011, after New York legalized same-sex marriage, Justin Timberlake voiced his support for LGBT equality in the U.S.

2011: Futures Award at Environmental Media Awards

In October 2011, Justin Timberlake received the Futures Award at the Environmental Media Awards for his green-conscious Mirimichi Golf Course.

2012: Walmart Shareholders Meeting

In 2012, Justin Timberlake hosted Walmart's annual shareholders meeting, stating, "I buy a lot at Walmart."

2012: Hurricane Sandy Relief Volunteering

In late 2012, Justin Timberlake and his wife Jessica Biel volunteered in Far Rockaway, Queens, distributing backpacks of supplies to those affected by Hurricane Sandy, alongside their friend Timbaland.

2013: Timberlake Makes Second Appearance on Time 100 List

In 2013, Justin Timberlake made his second appearance on the Time 100 list, with Stevie Wonder writing about his accomplishments and spirit.

2013: Release of The 20/20 Experience

In 2013, Justin Timberlake released The 20/20 Experience, a neo soul album partly inspired by 1960s and 1970s rock and the expansive song structures of Stevie Wonder, Prince, and Michael Jackson. He supported the album with the Legends of the Summer tour with Jay-Z, and The 20/20 Experience World Tour.

2013: Timberlake is the Third Highest-Paid Musician of 2013

In 2013, according to Billboard, Justin Timberlake was the third highest-paid musician, with earnings of $31 million.

2013: Billboard Year-End Charts Success

Justin Timberlake topped nine Billboard Year-End charts for 2013, including Billboard 200 Artists and Billboard 200 Albums.

2014: Seven Songs Exceed 3 Million Digital Downloads

As of 2014, Justin Timberlake had seven songs that exceeded 3 million digital downloads in the United States. These songs include "SexyBack", "4 Minutes", "Dead and Gone", "Suit & Tie", "Mirrors", "Holy Grail", and "Can't Stop the Feeling!".

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2014: Partnership with Sauza Tequila

In 2014, Justin Timberlake partnered with Sauza Tequila to re-launch his own version of the beverage as part of the Sauza franchise, named Sauza 901.

2014: Billboard Top Male Artist

In 2014, Justin Timberlake was named Billboard Top Male Artist, solidifying his position as a leading figure in the music industry.

2014: The 20/20 Experience World Tour's Success

In 2014, The 20/20 Experience World Tour was an international success and became Justin Timberlake's most successful tour to date. It was the highest-grossing tour led by a solo artist that year and one of the highest-grossing tours of the decade.

2014: Timberlake Ranked 26th on Celebrity 100 List for 2014

Justin Timberlake was ranked 26th with earnings of $57 million on the Celebrity 100 list for 2014.

2015: Timberlake and Biel Receive Inspiration Award at GLSEN Respect Awards

In 2015, Justin Timberlake and his wife, Jessica Biel, received the Inspiration Award at the GLSEN Respect Awards for their support and commitment to the LGBT community and their charitable works.

2015: Timberlake Leads "Top 10 Musicians Among Millennials"

In 2015, Justin Timberlake led Nielsen Music's U.S. report for the "Top 10 Musicians Among Millennials" list.

2015: Timberlake Performs with Chris Stapleton at the Country Music Association Awards

In 2015, Justin Timberlake performed with Chris Stapleton at the Country Music Association Awards, highlighting Timberlake's crossover appeal, according to The New York Times.

2015: Timberlake Ranked 19th on Celebrity 100 List for 2015

In 2015, Justin Timberlake was ranked 19th on the Celebrity 100 list with $63 million in earnings.

2015: iHeartRadio Music Awards Innovator Award

Justin Timberlake received the Innovator Award at the iHeartRadio Music Awards in 2015, recognizing his contributions and impact on the music industry.

2016: Investor in Bai Brands

In 2016, Justin Timberlake became an investor in the beverage company Bai Brands.

2016: Fifth studio album statement

In 2016, Justin Timberlake discussed the influences behind his upcoming fifth studio album, citing his upbringing in Tennessee and the impact of Memphis's musical heritage, blending rock & roll, blues, and country, with producers Timbaland and Pharrell Williams. He aimed to create a modern sound rooted in Southern American music.

2016: "Where Is the Love?" Charity Single

In 2016, Justin Timberlake was featured in a new version of "Where Is the Love?". The proceeds of the charity single will go to educational programs.

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2016: Timberlake's Voting Booth Selfie Influences Tennessee Legislation

In 2016, Justin Timberlake's selfie inside a voting booth on Instagram influenced Senator Brian Kelsey to bring up a bill in Tennessee that would allow taking photos in voting poll stations, with some exceptions.

2016: Teen Choice Awards Inaugural Decade Award

Justin Timberlake received the inaugural Decade Award at the 2016 Teen Choice Awards for his continuous achievements since the release of his album FutureSex/LoveSounds in 2006.

2016: Voicing Branch in the 'Trolls' Franchise

Since 2016, Justin Timberlake has voiced Branch in the 'Trolls' franchise.

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2017: Greatest of All Time Pop Songs Artists Ranking

Billboard published a list of "Greatest of All Time Pop Songs Artists" in 2017, where Justin Timberlake ranked at number 5, being the top male soloist.

2017: Fundraising for Manchester Arena Bombing Victims

In 2017, Justin Timberlake and Eminem helped raise over $2 million for Manchester Arena bombing victims.

2017: Ownership Stake in Hurricane Junior Golf Tour

In 2017, Justin Timberlake and Tiger Woods acquired an ownership stake in the Hurricane Junior Golf Tour.

2017: Starring Role in 'Wonder Wheel'

In 2017, Justin Timberlake landed a starring role in the film 'Wonder Wheel'.

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February 2, 2018: Release of Man of the Woods Album

On February 2, 2018, Justin Timberlake released his fifth studio album, "Man of the Woods", two days before his Super Bowl halftime performance. The album was named after his son Silas.

March 13, 2018: Man of the Woods Tour start

On March 13, 2018, Justin Timberlake started his 'Man of the Woods Tour' in Toronto, Canada.

April 30, 2018: Hollywood Walk of Fame Star with NSYNC

On April 30, 2018, Justin Timberlake reunited with his NSYNC bandmates to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, celebrating their collective contributions to the music industry.

2018: "The Top 60 Male Artists of All-Time" List Ranking

Billboard ranked Justin Timberlake 25th on their "The Top 60 Male Artists of All-Time" list in 2018, recognizing his significant contributions to music.

2018: Billboard Critics Discuss Timberlake's Status as Best Male Pop Star

In 2018, Billboard critics debated whether Justin Timberlake is the "Best Male Pop Star of the 21st century," citing his crossover appeal, career longevity, showmanship, and credibility within the music industry as reasons in his favor.

2018: Release of 'Man of the Woods' Album

In 2018, Justin Timberlake topped the US Billboard 200 chart with his album 'Man of the Woods'.

2018: Debut of Levi's Collaboration

In October 2018, Justin Timberlake and Levi's debuted their collaborative clothing line collection "Fresh Leaves".

2018: Super Bowl Halftime Show and Air Jordan Collaboration

In the lead up to his 2018 Super Bowl Halftime Show, Justin Timberlake worked with Nike, Inc. designer Tinker Hatfield to design his own version of the Air Jordan 3, which he debuted at the halftime show. The performance was estimated to be worth $2.86 million in marketing for Nike.

April 13, 2019: Man of the Woods Tour end

On April 13, 2019, Justin Timberlake concluded his 'Man of the Woods Tour' in Uncasville.

2019: Decade-End Chart Ranking

In 2019, Billboard ranked Justin Timberlake 20th on their decade-end chart for "Top Artists" of the 2010s, and 74th on "Top 125 Greatest of All Time Artists Chart".

2019: Timberlake Ranked on Forbes Celebrity 100 List

In 2019, Justin Timberlake was ranked 41st on the Forbes Celebrity 100 list, with earnings of $57.5 million.

February 26, 2020: Release of "The Other Side" with SZA

On February 26, 2020, Justin Timberlake and SZA released their single "The Other Side," which is part of the Trolls World Tour soundtrack.

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March 9, 2020: "Don't Slack" Teaser Release

On March 9, 2020, Justin Timberlake released a teaser for his upcoming song "Don't Slack", featuring Anderson .Paak, part of the Trolls World Tour soundtrack.

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March 10, 2020: "Don't Slack" Song Release

On March 10, 2020, Justin Timberlake released the song "Don't Slack", featuring Anderson .Paak, as part of the Trolls World Tour soundtrack.

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September 2020: Teasing Potential Collaborations

In September 2020, Justin Timberlake and producer Timbaland teased potential collaborations with Justin Bieber, Justine Skye, Hit-Boy, and Ty Dolla Sign.

December 2020: Release of "Better Days" with Ant Clemons

In December 2020, Justin Timberlake and Ant Clemons released the single "Better Days", which premiered at the Rock the Runoff virtual concert.

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January 2021: Performance at Joe Biden's Inauguration

In January 2021, Justin Timberlake performed his collaboration with Ant Clemons during the Celebrating America special as part of the inauguration of Joe Biden. He also performed at Pharrell Williams' Something in the Water festival in Washington D.C., joined by T.I. and Clipse.

June 2021: Timberlake Supports Britney Spears During Conservatorship Battle

In June 2021, Justin Timberlake voiced his support for Britney Spears during her court battle over her conservatorship, stating that no woman should be restricted from making decisions about her own body.

2021: Starring Role in 'Palmer'

In 2021, Justin Timberlake landed a starring role in the film 'Palmer'.

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May 2022: Sale of Musical Catalog

In May 2022, Justin Timberlake sold the rights to his entire musical catalog, around 200 songs he wrote or co-wrote, to Hipgnosis Song Management for $100 million.

2022: Investment in Greenville 3's Golf Course

In 2022, Justin Timberlake invested in Greenville, South Carolina par-3 golf course Greenville 3's.

May 2023: Sixth Studio Album Completion

In May 2023, Timbaland revealed that Justin Timberlake's sixth studio album was completed, with a sound reminiscent of the FutureSex/LoveSounds era.

September 1, 2023: Release of "Keep Going Up" with Timbaland and Nelly Furtado

On September 1, 2023, Timbaland released the single "Keep Going Up," a collaboration with Nelly Furtado and Justin Timberlake.

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January 19, 2024: Live Debut of "Selfish" in Memphis

On January 19, 2024, Justin Timberlake performed a free concert in Memphis, where he debuted his new single "Selfish".

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January 25, 2024: Appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon

On January 25, 2024, Justin Timberlake appeared on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon to promote his new album, announcing the release of "Selfish" and mentioning the album took four years to produce.

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January 27, 2024: Saturday Night Live Musical Guest

On January 27, 2024, Justin Timberlake appeared as a musical guest on Saturday Night Live, performing "Selfish" and "Sanctified".

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February 22, 2024: Appearance on The Graham Norton Show

On February 22, 2024, Justin Timberlake appeared as the musical guest on The Graham Norton Show recorded in London, where he performed "Selfish".

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February 23, 2024: Cancellation of London Concert and Release of "Drown"

On February 23, 2024, Justin Timberlake cancelled his A One Night Only concert at the Roundhouse, London, due to illness. On the same day, he released the promotional single "Drown".

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March 11, 2024: Appearance on Complex Networks Sneaker Shopping

On March 11, 2024, Justin Timberlake appeared on Complex Networks Sneaker Shopping, where he mentioned the release of his new album.

March 13, 2024: Concert at The Wiltern with NSYNC Reunion

On March 13, 2024, Justin Timberlake performed a concert at The Wiltern in Los Angeles, featuring a reunion with his NSYNC bandmates.

March 15, 2024: NPR's Tiny Desk Concert and Release of "No Angels"

On March 15, 2024, Justin Timberlake performed on NPR's Tiny Desk series and released his second single, "No Angels", from the album. His album Everything I Thought It Was was released the same day.

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March 2024: Release of "Everything I Thought It Was" Announcement

In March 2024, Justin Timberlake's album, Everything I Thought It Was, was released.

March 2024: Forget Tomorrow World Tour Fastest Selling

In March 2024, it was reported that the Forget Tomorrow World Tour had become Justin Timberlake's fastest selling tour to date, amassing over $140 million globally in initial ticket sales.

April 2024: iHeartRadio Music Awards Performance

In April 2024, Justin Timberlake opened the iHeartRadio Music Awards, performing "Selfish" and "No Angels".

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April 29, 2024: Forget Tomorrow World Tour Start

On April 29, 2024, Justin Timberlake began his Forget Tomorrow World Tour in Vancouver, Canada.

May 20, 2024: Additional Forget Tomorrow World Tour Shows Added

On May 20, 2024, Pollstar announced that nine additional shows were added to the Forget Tomorrow World Tour due to "overwhelming demand", with over 1 million tickets already sold, making it Timberlake's fastest selling tour to date.

July 2025: Timberlake Diagnosed with Lyme Disease

In July 2025, at the end of his Forget Tomorrow World Tour, Justin Timberlake revealed he had been diagnosed with Lyme disease. He shared that he experienced nerve pain, fatigue, and sickness but decided to continue touring despite the diagnosis.