Justin Timberlake honoring the Black Music Collective during the 68th GRAMMY Awards.
Emma McIntyre/Getty Images
It is a classic case of the “Justin” connection.
Justin Timberlake has publicly responded to Justin Bieber’s nostalgic rendition of his hit “Cry Me a River,” performed during Bieber’s headline set at Coachella’s second weekend. On Monday, April 20, Timberlake took to Instagram to share a sentimental throwback video capturing an early encounter between himself and a young, aspiring Bieber.
“I understand this journey has been a long one,” Timberlake noted in his caption. “And I know it hasn’t always been an easy path. I am incredibly proud of the artist you’ve become—and you should be just as proud of yourself. Sending love, @lilbieber.”
In addition to the vintage footage, Timberlake featured a clip of Bieber’s Saturday night performance. In the segment, Bieber tells the audience, “I grew up listening to the sounds of Justin Timberlake and so many other incredible talents. I remember this particular moment like it was yesterday.”
As he spoke, a massive backdrop displayed a video of a younger Bieber playing the guitar and singing “Cry Me a River.” That original tribute, uploaded to YouTube in February 2008, predates Bieber’s professional breakout with his 2009 hit, “One Time.”
“The guitar was a bit out of tune back then,” a reflective Bieber joked before launching into a heartfelt duet with his younger self. The clip concluded just as the song reached its emotional peak.
“Cry Me a River,” a standout from Timberlake’s debut solo project, Justified, remains a fan favorite, having peaked at No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 during its impressive 20-week chart run.
The history between these two icons is deep; Timberlake notably attempted to sign a pre-fame Bieber, though the young artist and his manager, Scooter Braun, ultimately decided to move forward with Usher.
Check out the original 2008 cover video that started it all below.
