Lasting Legacy of Justin Timberlake: A Look at the Influence on History

A closer look at the lasting mark left by Justin Timberlake—a timeline of influence.

Justin Timberlake, an American singer, songwriter, actor, record producer, and dancer, is often called the "Prince of Pop." Billboard has recognized him as a top male solo artist on Pop Airplay and a leading pop star of the 21st century. With over 117 million records sold globally, he is among the best-selling artists ever. His numerous accolades include ten Grammy Awards, four Primetime Emmy Awards, three Brit Awards, and nine Billboard Music Awards, along with honors like the Songwriters Hall of Fame's Contemporary Icon Award and MTV's Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award.

Sections (7)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals Legacy & Impact

1979: Comparison of Timberlake's 'FutureSex/LoveSounds' to 'Off the Wall'

Fuse TV's editor Jason Lipshutz said that Justin Timberlake's 'FutureSex/LoveSounds' had the best first half of any pop album in 25 years. Lipshutz stated you have to go back to 1979 for Michael Jackson's Off the Wall to find a pop album with a first half that matches up.

2000: Spears' pregnancy and abortion

In late 2000, during their relationship, Britney Spears became pregnant and had an abortion after Justin Timberlake expressed he was not ready for parenthood.

2003: Timberlake named 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".

2006: Timberlake popularizes "I'm bringing sexy back"

Aside from earning critical acclaim for his parent album, Sia Michel of The New York Times noted that in 2006 Justin Timberlake was responsible for popularizing the catchphrase "I'm bringing sexy back".

2007: Timberlake labeled a sex symbol

In 2007, Sia Michel of The New York Times wrote about Justin Timberlake's sex-symbol edge since his last tour in 2002 for his multiplatinum 'Justified' album. Sean Parker also commented on Timberlake portraying him as a sex symbol in The Social Network.

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.

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 praising his accomplishments and charitable contributions.

October 2015: Induction into Memphis Music Hall of Fame

In October 2015, Justin Timberlake was inducted into the Memphis Music Hall of Fame, becoming its youngest member.

2016: Timberlake regarded as one of the greatest all-around entertainers

In a 2016 article of The Hollywood Reporter, editor Scott Feinberg stated Justin Timberlake is "widely regarded as one of the greatest all-around entertainers in the history of show business".

2018: Media Outlets Call Timberlake a Pop Icon

In 2018, Justin Timberlake was considered a pop icon by media outlets, and his work has influenced numerous artists.

2023: Spears' memoir revelation

In 2023, Britney Spears wrote in her memoir, "The Woman in Me" that she became pregnant during her relationship with Justin Timberlake and had an abortion in late 2000 after Timberlake said they were not prepared for parenthood and he did not want to be a father.