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Justin Timberlake’s new single, “Selfish,” released on January 25, has received mixed reviews, with some critics expressing disappointment in the track. The song has also sparked comparisons and controversy due to sharing the same title as Britney Spears’ 2011 track, leading to discussions among fans.
Despite the varied reactions, it seems that “Selfish” revolves around themes of love and vulnerability. Timberlake’s lyrics suggest a sense of possessiveness and jealousy, with lines like “I want every bit of you, I guess I’m selfish.” The chorus reflects the internal struggle of being drawn to someone irresistibly, even if it may have negative consequences on one’s mental state.
In an interview with Apple Music’s “New Music Daily,” Timberlake shared that the heart of the song is about being vulnerable, a theme he believes in expressing honestly. He acknowledged that his upbringing taught him not to be vulnerable, but “Selfish” is an attempt to break away from that conditioning.
The lyrics hint at Timberlake’s relationship with his wife, Jessica Biel. While he hasn’t explicitly confirmed that the song is about her, he has previously expressed his admiration for Biel’s beauty and discussed their undeniable connection. The couple, who got married in 2012 and has two children, has maintained a strong bond over the years.
Additionally, the overall vibe of Timberlake’s new album, “Everything I Thought It Was,” is described as fun and reminiscent of his earlier work like “FutureSex/LoveSounds.” The intention is to provide enjoyable, danceable music without delving too deep into heavy themes. Timberlake and collaborator Timbaland emphasized the fun and lighthearted nature of the album, aiming to create a more upbeat experience for listeners compared to Timberlake’s previous release, “Man of the Woods.”
As the full album unfolds, it remains to be seen how the audience will respond to Timberlake’s latest musical direction and whether it will resonate more positively than his previous project.