Justin Timberlake’s “Selfish”: A Deeper Dive into the Song, Video, and Comeback
A New Era of Justin Timberlake: Unveiling “Selfish” and “Everything I Thought It Was”
After a five-year hiatus from solo music, Justin Timberlake has finally graced the world with his highly anticipated single, “Selfish,” and its accompanying music video. This release marks the beginning of a new era for the 42-year-old singer, leading up to his forthcoming album, “Everything I Thought It Was.”
“Selfish”: A Pulsating Ballad with a Dash of Nostalgia
“Selfish” is a midtempo, pulsating ballad that evokes a sense of nostalgia, harkening back to Timberlake’s earlier hits. The song, co-written by Timberlake himself alongside a talented team of music producers and songwriters, features love-themed lyrics that resonate with his signature style. The lyrics, such as “I want every bit of you, guess I’m selfish,” capture the essence of a heart yearning for a deep and all-encompassing love.
The Quirky and Self-Deprecating Music Video: A Visual Journey
The music video for “Selfish,” directed by Bradley J. Calder, adds a layer of intrigue and humor to the song’s message. It portrays Timberlake in a self-deprecating manner, showcasing him unshaven and clad in a simple T-shirt. The video follows his growing frustration as he rehearses for a video shoot in a cavernous studio. The surreal twist comes when he enters a bizarre miniature room with a red telephone at the end. After finally reaching the phone, he finds himself back in the studio, smashing the miniature set with his foot from the outside. This scene is reminiscent of the cover of his 2006 album “FutureSex/ LoveSounds,” which featured him breaking a disco ball with his foot. The video concludes with Timberlake performing the song in a stylish suit, showcasing his sleek dance moves.
A Return to Traditional Promotion: Fallon, SNL, and a Special Concert
Justin Timberlake’s promotional campaign for “Selfish” and his upcoming album follows a surprisingly traditional path. He is set to appear on “The Tonight Show With Jimmy Fallon” on January 25th, “Saturday Night Live” on January 28th, and a special free concert at New York’s Irving Plaza the following week. These platforms have been frequent stomping grounds for Timberlake throughout his career, particularly his long-standing bromance with Jimmy Fallon.
A Reflective Pause and Return to “Fun Justin”
In recent years, Timberlake has maintained a relatively low profile, especially after the lukewarm reception of his 2018 album “Man of the Woods.” However, he has made notable appearances in the soundtracks of the “Trolls” films, including “The Other Side” with SZA and “Better Place,” which marked a reunion with his iconic boy band, NSYNC. While the latter song hinted at a possible full reunion, Timberlake seems focused on his solo comeback.
Timbaland’s Perspective: Embracing the “Fun Justin” of “FutureSex/ LoveSounds”
Justin Timberlake’s longtime musical collaborator, Timbaland, provided insight into the upcoming album in an interview with Variety last April. He described it as a return to the “fun Justin” of “FutureSex/ LoveSounds” after the more serious tone of “Man of the Woods.” Timbaland emphasized the importance of keeping music fun and youthful, avoiding overthinking and embracing the carefree spirit of younger years.
Striking a Balance: Authenticity, Simplicity, and Avoiding the “Old-Fogey” Trap
Timbaland stressed the need for authenticity and staying true to the art of music. He mentioned that the album took time to create, with the goal of capturing the essence of “FutureSex/ LoveSounds.” The album features songs that fit this vibe, avoiding overly complicated arrangements and focusing on lyrics that are relatable and easy to groove to.
Justin Timberlake’s Comeback: A Fusion of Nostalgia and Freshness
Justin Timberlake’s return to the music scene with “Selfish” and the upcoming album “Everything I Thought It Was” promises a blend of nostalgia and freshness. The single showcases his ability to craft heartfelt love songs while injecting a touch of humor and self-deprecation. The album’s direction, as described by Timbaland, suggests a return to the more playful and groove-oriented sound of “FutureSex/ LoveSounds.” Timberlake’s traditional promotional approach, including appearances on popular shows and a special concert, reflects his commitment to connecting with his fans and creating a buzz around his new music. As he embarks on this new chapter in his career, Justin Timberlake aims to recapture the magic of his earlier hits while infusing it with a renewed energy and perspective.
Justin Timberlake’s “Selfish” marks a captivating start to his musical comeback, blending nostalgia and freshness in both the song and its accompanying video. Fans can eagerly anticipate the upcoming album “Everything I Thought It Was,” which promises to deliver a fusion of heartfelt lyrics, groovy beats, and a return to the “fun Justin” of the past. Stay tuned for more updates and exciting performances as Timberlake embarks on this new journey, showcasing his enduring talent and versatility.