Justin Timberlake has become one of the most successful and influential pop artists of his generation. From his early days as a member of NSYNC to his solo career, Timberlake has consistently delivered chart-topping hits that have earned him numerous awards and accolades. With his smooth vocals, catchy melodies, and dynamic performances, Timberlake has become a household name and a favorite among music fans around the world. In this article, we will take a look at the top 10 best Justin Timberlake songs of all time, highlighting the songs that have defined his career and cemented his status as a pop icon. From his early solo hits like “Like I Love You” and “Cry Me a River” to his more recent chart-toppers like “Mirrors” and “Can’t Stop the Feeling!,” these songs showcase Timberlake’s versatility, creativity, and enduring appeal. Whether you’re a die-hard Timberlake fan or a casual listener, this list is sure to bring back memories and remind you of why he’s one of the best in the business.
1. “Cry Me A River”
“Cry Me a River” by Justin Timberlake is a mid-tempo pop and R&B ballad that was released in 2002 as the second single from his debut solo album, “Justified.” The song’s lyrics are about a broken relationship and the betrayal of a former lover. The melancholic tune is characterized by its haunting piano and electronic beat, which is accompanied by Timberlake’s soulful and emotive vocals. The chorus of the song is especially memorable, with Timberlake repeatedly singing, “Cry me a river,” as he urges his ex-lover to express her own sadness and regret.
The music video for “Cry Me a River” features a striking resemblance to Timberlake’s real-life relationship with fellow pop star Britney Spears, who had recently ended their highly publicized romance. The video shows Timberlake breaking into a house and filming himself with another woman, who looks like Spears. The video’s themes of heartbreak and betrayal resonated with audiences and helped establish Timberlake as a solo artist.
2. “SexyBack”
“SexyBack” by Justin Timberlake was released in 2006 as the lead single from his second studio album, “FutureSex/LoveSounds.” The song is an uptempo dance-pop and electro-funk track that is characterized by its futuristic sound and catchy hook. The lyrics of the song are about Timberlake’s desire to bring sexy back and to be seen as a confident and seductive figure. The track features a unique blend of electronic and organic instruments, including a distinctive synthesizer riff and a heavy bassline.
The music video for “SexyBack” features Timberlake performing in a futuristic nightclub, surrounded by flashing lights and dancers. The video’s slick and futuristic aesthetic perfectly matches the song’s sound and lyrics, creating a memorable visual experience. “SexyBack” became a massive commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries and solidifying Timberlake’s position as one of the most innovative and successful pop stars of his generation.
3. “Rock Your Body”
“Rock Your Body” is a catchy and upbeat pop and R&B track by Justin Timberlake, released in 2003 as the third single from his debut solo album, “Justified.” The song’s lyrics are about dancing and having a good time, with Timberlake’s smooth and soulful vocals urging listeners to “dance until the night is through.” The song’s funky bassline and groovy beat make it an instant classic and a favorite on dance floors worldwide.
The music video for “Rock Your Body” features Timberlake performing a choreographed dance routine with backup dancers in a club-like setting. The video’s vibrant colors and energetic atmosphere perfectly match the song’s upbeat and lively sound. “Rock Your Body” became a massive commercial success, cementing Timberlake’s status as a solo artist and showcasing his impressive vocal range and dancing skills.
4. “Mirrors”
“Mirrors” is a powerful and emotional ballad released by Justin Timberlake in 2013 as the second single from his third studio album, “The 20/20 Experience.” The song’s lyrics are about a deep and enduring love, with Timberlake singing about his partner as his reflection and his guide. The track features a soaring melody, lush orchestration, and a stunning vocal performance by Timberlake, making it one of his most heartfelt and personal songs to date.
The music video for “Mirrors” features Timberlake in various stages of life, from a young man in love to an elderly man reflecting on his life. The video’s themes of love, loss, and reflection are perfectly matched with the song’s emotional and powerful lyrics. “Mirrors” was a critical and commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries and earning Timberlake numerous awards and accolades.
5. “My Love”
“My Love” is a smooth and sultry R&B and hip-hop track released by Justin Timberlake in 2006 as the second single from his second studio album, “FutureSex/LoveSounds.” The song’s lyrics are about a passionate and intense love, with Timberlake’s smooth and sensual vocals urging his partner to stay by his side. The track features a slow and sexy beat, a catchy melody, and a memorable guest verse by rapper T.I.
The music video for “My Love” features Timberlake in a futuristic and stylish setting, performing in front of a flashing and colorful backdrop. The video’s sleek and innovative aesthetic perfectly matches the song’s sound and lyrics, creating a memorable and sexy visual experience. “My Love” became a massive commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries and earning Timberlake a Grammy Award for Best Rap/Sung Collaboration.
6. “Like I Love You”
“Like I Love You” is a pop and R&B track released by Justin Timberlake in 2002 as the lead single from his debut solo album, “Justified.” The song’s lyrics are about a man’s desire for a woman who is playing hard to get, with Timberlake’s smooth and soulful vocals urging her to give in to his advances. The track features a groovy beat, catchy melody, and a memorable guitar riff, creating a perfect blend of pop and R&B.
The music video for “Like I Love You” features Timberlake performing a choreographed dance routine in a futuristic and stylish setting, with backup dancers and flashy visuals creating an energetic and memorable visual experience. The video helped establish Timberlake as a solo artist and showcased his impressive dancing skills and charismatic personality.
7. “What Goes Around…Comes Around”
“What Goes Around… Comes Around” is a powerful and emotional ballad released by Justin Timberlake in 2007 as the third single from his second studio album, “FutureSex/LoveSounds.” The song’s lyrics are about a man’s regret for cheating on his partner and the consequences of his actions. The track features a haunting melody, lush orchestration, and a stunning vocal performance by Timberlake, making it one of his most heartfelt and personal songs to date.
The music video for “What Goes Around… Comes Around” features Timberlake in a dramatic and cinematic story, with actress Scarlett Johansson playing his love interest. The video’s themes of love, betrayal, and regret are perfectly matched with the song’s emotional and powerful lyrics, creating a memorable and poignant visual experience. “What Goes Around… Comes Around” was a critical and commercial success, earning Timberlake numerous awards and accolades.
8. “Summer Love”
“Summer Love” is an upbeat and catchy pop and R&B track released by Justin Timberlake in 2007 as the fourth single from his second studio album, “FutureSex/LoveSounds.” The song’s lyrics are about a summer romance and the passion and excitement that come with falling in love. The track features a lively beat, catchy melody, and Timberlake’s smooth and soulful vocals, making it a perfect summer anthem.
The music video for “Summer Love” features Timberlake performing in a beach party setting, with colorful and playful visuals creating an energetic and fun visual experience. The video perfectly matches the song’s upbeat and lively sound, showcasing Timberlake’s playful and charismatic personality. “Summer Love” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries and earning Timberlake numerous accolades.
9. “LoveStoned”
“LoveStoned” is an electro-funk and dance-pop track released by Justin Timberlake in 2007 as the second single from his second studio album, “FutureSex/LoveSounds.” The song’s lyrics are about a man’s obsession with a woman who has captivated him, with Timberlake’s smooth and soulful vocals urging her to keep dancing and keep him love-stoned. The track features a funky beat, catchy melody, and a memorable guitar riff, creating a perfect blend of pop and R&B.
The music video for “LoveStoned” features Timberlake in a futuristic and stylish setting, performing in front of a colorful and flashing backdrop. The video’s sleek and innovative aesthetic perfectly matches the song’s sound and lyrics, creating a memorable and visually striking experience. “LoveStoned” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries and earning Timberlake numerous accolades.
10. “Señorita”
“Señorita” is a Latin-infused pop and R&B track released by Justin Timberlake in 2003 as the fourth single from his debut solo album, “Justified.” The song’s lyrics are about a man’s infatuation with a woman he meets in a club, with Timberlake’s smooth and soulful vocals expressing his desire to be with her. The track features a lively beat, catchy melody, and a memorable trumpet riff, creating a perfect blend of pop and Latin music.
The music video for “Señorita” features Timberlake in a club-like setting, performing a choreographed dance routine with backup dancers. The video’s vibrant colors and energetic atmosphere perfectly match the song’s upbeat and lively sound, showcasing Timberlake’s impressive dancing skills and charismatic personality. “Señorita” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries and helping establish Timberlake as a solo artist.