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 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.

Sections (7)

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

1979: Comparison to Michael Jackson's 'Off the Wall'

In 1979 reference, Fuse TV stated Justin Timberlake's FutureSex/LoveSounds had the best first half of any pop album in 25 years, comparing it to Michael Jackson's Off the Wall.

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".

2006: Popularization of the Catchphrase "I'm bringing sexy back"

In 2006, Sia Michel of The New York Times noted that Justin Timberlake was responsible for popularizing the catchphrase "I'm bringing sexy back".

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.

2012: "It's Gonna Be May" Internet Meme

In 2012, Justin Timberlake's pronunciation of "me" in the song "It's Gonna Be Me" was popularized as an internet meme titled "It's Gonna Be May," which became an annually recurring joke.

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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.

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.

2015: Record for Fastest-Selling Album Surpassed

In 2015, Adele surpassed NSYNC's record for fastest-selling album with her third album, 25; NSYNC previously held the record since 2000 with "No Strings Attached".

2016: Timberlake Recognized as One of the Greatest All-Around Entertainers

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

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.

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.

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: Contemporary Icon Award and Honorary Doctorate

In 2019, Justin Timberlake received a Contemporary Icon Award by the Songwriters Hall of Fame, and an honorary Doctor of Music degree from Berklee College of Music.

2020: Billboard Retrospective on 'Celebrity'

In a retrospective article in 2020, Billboard considered NSYNC's 'Celebrity' "the group's swan song, setting the stage for Timberlake's equally massive solo career".