Justin Timberlake Praises Justin Bieber’s ‘Cry Me a River’ Coachella Cover: ‘I’m Proud of You’

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.

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