Justin Timberlake: Prince of Pop

Justin Timberlake in Concert   (photo: justintimberlake.com)

By Karina Maldonado
                                          
Justin Timberlake has been in the entertainment industry for a little more than two decades.  It appears any business opportunity Timberlake is a part of turns into success.  As we all know, Michael Jackson is the king of pop because of his impact in the music industry.  So what exactly makes Mr. Timberlake the prince of pop?

I first noticed his talent back in 2000 when he was a part of N’SYNC.  He was always interested in other business opportunities such as acting or a clothing line.  Timberlake knew his boy band days couldn't last forever.  After his boy band days, he emerged as an international solo artist, winning countless awards.  Winning awards and being successful does not necessarily make Timberlake the prince of pop.  Sure, winning awards and being loved by millions puts you in the running for a prestigious name but there is one trait Timberlake has that many artists lack: Authenticity

Justin Timberlake is authentic.  I believe authenticity is his greatest strength.  Everyone loves him so much because he does not seem out of reach.  He is one of the few people you can visually see yourself getting a beer with and having an insightful conversation.  Money and power can definitely change someone’s personality but the fame has not gone to Timberlake’s head. 

I can say this first hand because I’ve personally met Mr. Timberlake. Justin was walking down the street in New York City with no bodyguards, just himself.  I asked to take a picture with him and, smiling, he said yes.  He took time off his day to have a conversation with me about my aspirations and how I am a huge fan of his work.  He was extremely sincere and normal.  People can easily forget that celebrities are human also. 

Justin Timberlake is one of the most successful names in the music industry.  He has won numerous awards including 9 Grammy Awards, 4 Emmy Awards, and 7 American Music Awards.  Timberlake has been nominated for a total of 177 awards and won 60 of them.  The music he puts out is art.  He puts out content that has meaning, not just a good beat. 

His last album, “The 20/20 Experience,” is an example of music that was expertly written and completely experimental.  The sound of his album was completely different from the songs everyone was listening to on the radio.  It was authentic and refreshing to hear.  I think that is what makes Justin great.  He does not follow what is in at the moment.  He trusts in his musical abilities to make influential music and I commend him for that.

Justin Timberlake is one of the greatest entertainers of my generation.  He has shown us that with hard work and a dream, the possibilities are truly endless.  This is what makes Justin the prince of pop. 


Karina Maldonado is taking Communication Arts classes at St. Thomas Aquinas College to bolster her plans to graduate with a Communications degree from the University at Albany, SUNY in the Spring. She is currently interning for the Brooklyn Nets NBA team in the sales and marketing department.