Justin Timberlake surprised fans on Friday night by performing an exclusive concert in his hometown of Memphis, Tennessee. During the free show at the Orpheum Theatre, Timberlake debuted new single “Selfish” and suggested a new album is on the way.
Timberlake Returns Home for Special Show
The formerly *NSYNC singer announced last week that he would be playing the intimate show in Memphis as a way to connect with fans and showcase new music.
“I want to rock your body ’til the break of day…” JT captioned a rehearsal video on Instagram. “Memphis, wanna show you some new things…”
The concert marked Timberlake’s first solo performance since 2018. He thrilled the 1,800 attendees with a 90-minute set featuring his classic hits along with several new songs.
“Selfish” Debut Met with Rave Reviews
The highlight of the evening was the debut of Timberlake’s new single, “Selfish.” The midtempo R&B track features Timberlake’s soulful vocals over a funky beat.
“I can be selfish, yeah. I can be selfish with your body. And I know that you’re mine, tonight,” he croons on the chorus.
Critics praised “Selfish” as “silky smooth” and “classic JT,” noting the singer’s signature style of blending pop, soul and funk.
According to Rolling Stone, Timberlake “[had] the audience eating out of the palm out his hand” during the “Selfish” performance.
Several media outlets described the song as “baby-making music” that is sure to set the mood.
Hints at New Album Called “Everything I Thought It Was”
In addition to previewing “Selfish,” Timberlake dropped several hints about a forthcoming album. Video clips prior to the show bore the title “Everything I Thought It Was” fueling speculation that it’s the name of his next full-length release.
The pop icon has been largely absent from the music scene since dropping his Man of the Woods album back in 2018. However, over the past few weeks he has posted cryptic social media teasers suggesting new music is imminent.
Registration of several new Timberlake-related trademarks and website domains in December and January also implied an album rollout.
Based on the Memphis show reactions, fans are more than ready for Justin to bring sexy back to the charts.
What’s Next for Timberlake?
All signs point to big things ahead for JT in 2024. On the music front, “Selfish” is expected to be released as a single soon along with a corresponding music video.
Timberlake is also slated to be the musical guest on Saturday Night Live on January 28th, which should give the new track a boost on the radio.
| Date | Event | Details |
|---|---|---|
| January 28, 2024 | Saturday Night Live appearance | Perform “Selfish”, potentially preview other new songs |
| February 2024 | New single “Selfish” released | Includes music video |
| Spring 2024 | Everything I Thought It Was album rollout | Lead single “Selfish” followed by more tracks off the album |
| Summer 2024 | Possible tour? | No tour plans confirmed yet, but rumors are swirling |
Meanwhile, The Hollywood Reporter revealed that Timberlake has been working on a documentary about his music career directed by Michael D. Ratner. That project would likely tie in with the new album promotion.
The Memphis concert and new music have revived interest in the pop/R&B icon and anticipation is building.
Longtime fan Shanice Rogers told reporters, “The crowd went crazy when Justin sang his new song! He looked so happy. I can’t wait to hear the studio version of ‘Selfish’ and hopefully lots more songs on the rumored album.”
Based on the early reactions, Justin Timberlake is poised to dominate both the charts and cultural conversation in the coming months.
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