How do I begin to describe Justin Timberlake?
I could say he’s the winner of numerous awards - Grammys, VMAs, AMAs, et cetera. I could say he’s been on the Mickey Mouse club and that he was a member of one of the most popular boy bands of all time. I could say he’s had a successful solo career. I could say he’s a stellar actor. I could even say he’s a hilarious comedian, as his multiple appearances on Saturday Night Live and Late Night with Jimmy Fallon prove. All of those descriptions would fall short of what Justin Timberlake really is. I fully believe he was born to be a performer; it has to be a part of his genetic code. If you attended his sold out concert last night, you know this to be true. His show was absolutely stunning, and there is simply no other explanation.
Main Street restaurants were flooded with concert-goers as early as 5pm for a concert that began at 8pm. Impellizzeri's was crowded as ever, welcoming the business that accompanies a big name concert. Arriving to the KFC Yum! Center shortly before 7:30pm, I was shown to my seat in section 323. After having a mild panic attack, I was moved to the handicapped section below 324. (I very recently found out I have a fear of heights.) The Yum! Center was very accommodating, and it was apparent that a guest having a good experience was their utmost concern. The DJ spun records and got the crowd excited for what seemed like an eternity. Timberlake took the stage shortly after 9pm.
Timberlake began his show with the first track on his 20/20 Experience album, “Pusher Love Girl.” Dressed in a black and white suit, he was the picture-perfect Justin Timberlake everyone was eager to see. Timberlake went on to sing hits from his earlier albums, Justified and Future Sex/Love Sounds. The most popular tracks from Justified, “Rock Your Body” and “Cry Me a River,” were huge hits with the crowd. “Summer Love,” “My Love,” and “What Goes Around…/…Comes Around” from Future Sex/Love Sounds received boisterous applause from the audience as well.
Seeing Justin Timberlake sing, dance, and play the piano and guitar during these songs was a real treat. Coming from a boy band sometimes carries a stigma that you’re only good at singing and dancing, but Timberlake proved that was completely false in his case by displaying his musical ability to the fullest. We were treated to a few covers of popular songs such as “Heartbreak Hotel” by Elvis, “Human Nature” by Michael Jackson, and “Poison” by Bell Biv DeVoe to name a few.
In the middle of his show, part the stage moved to the back of the KFC Yum! Center allowing fans in the 100 and 200 sections a closer look. It was at this time that a proposal took place amongst the crowd in the VIP bar lounge section directly under the stage. (Best wishes to Josh and Kim!)Saving the best for last, Timberlake ended his show with a rousing performance of one of his most famous tracks “SexyBack” as well as his newest hit “Mirrors.”
I have been to many concerts in my lifetime, and Justin Timberlake ranks 2nd only to Sir Paul McCartney. Like the legendary member of the Beatles, Justin Timberlake was meant to be an entertainer, and you can tell he truly enjoys what he’s doing. He continually thanked his fans, and even told us we were the loudest crowd his tour had seen so far. Perhaps a sold out show and a great crowd will bring him back the Louisville soon. If he does come back, take my advice and don’t miss it!
Photo by Glenn A. Hirsch. For more photos of the event, click here. Please do not distribute photos without permission.
