Justin Timberlake is back and he’s rocking it! The pop star made his musical comeback on Saturday Night Live, performing his awesome new single ‘Selfish’ and playfully joking about his break from the spotlight.
Timberlake, who last released an album in 2018, has been laying low for the past few years, focusing on his family and dealing with some controversies. He recently apologized to his ex-girlfriends Britney Spears and Janet Jackson for his role in their public mistreatment, and he also faced backlash for holding hands with his Palmer co-star Alisha Wainwright in 2019.
But on SNL, Timberlake showed that he can laugh at his own mistakes and move on with his career. He opened his first performance with a skit where he pretended to be a motivational speaker, advising a group of aspiring singers.
‘You know, I’ve been in this business a long time,’ he said. ‘I’ve seen a lot of ups and downs. I’ve made some mistakes. I’ve learned from them. I’ve grown. I’ve changed. I’ve evolved. And now, I’m ready to make my comeback.’
He then launched into ‘Selfish’, a catchy pop song with a hint of R&B, featuring guest vocals from Ant Clemons. The track, which is expected to be part of Timberlake’s upcoming album, is about putting yourself first and not letting anyone hold you back.
‘I don’t wanna be selfish, but I can’t help it / I put myself first, that’s how I felt it / I know you’re used to me putting you second / But I need to do me, that’s why I left it,’ he sang.
The song was well-received by the audience and the fans online, who praised Timberlake for his vocals and his energy. Some also noted the irony of the song’s title, given Timberlake’s past controversies.
‘Justin Timberlake singing ‘Selfish’ on SNL is the ultimate troll move,’ one user tweeted.
‘Justin Timberlake really said ‘I don’t wanna be selfish’ after being selfish for 20 years,’ another wrote.
For his second performance, Timberlake switched gears and performed a more upbeat and funky song, called ‘Better Days’. The song, which he previously performed at the Celebrating America special for President Joe Biden’s inauguration, is a hopeful anthem for the post-pandemic era.
‘There’s a light at the end of the tunnel / Keep your eyes on the road ahead / If you’re feeling lost in the night / It’s okay to cry / Just as long as you hold your head / ‘Cause we’re on our way to better / Better’s ahead, better’s ahead / It gets worse ‘fore it gets better / But better’s ahead, better’s ahead / Better days are coming,’ he sang.
Timberlake was joined by a gospel choir and a band, creating a joyful and uplifting atmosphere. The song also resonated with the viewers, who appreciated Timberlake’s positive message and musical versatility.
‘Justin Timberlake is giving me life with this performance of ‘Better Days’ on SNL. Such a beautiful song and a much-needed reminder that things will get better,’ one fan commented.
‘Justin Timberlake can do it all. Pop, R&B, soul, funk, rock, country, you name it. He’s a legend and I’m so glad he’s back,’ another said.
In addition to his musical performances, Timberlake also appeared in a few sketches, showing off his comedic chops. He played a version of himself in a parody of It’s a Wonderful Life, where he saw what his life would be like if he never met his NSYNC bandmates. He also played a flamboyant contestant on a dating show, who had a crush on the host, played by Keegan-Michael Key.
Timberlake’s SNL appearance was his fifth as a musical guest and his first since 2013. He’s also hosted the show five times, making him part of the prestigious Five-Timers Club. Widely seen as one of the best SNL hosts and guests ever, thanks to his charisma, humor, and musical talent.
Timberlake’s new album, rumored to be titled Man of the Woods 2, is expected to be released later this year. While he hasn’t shared many details, he hinted at collaborations with Timbaland, Pharrell Williams, and Lizzo. He also mentioned that the album will draw inspiration from his personal life, family, and love for nature.
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