Justin Timberlake has long been celebrated for his smooth vocals, infectious beats, and ability to seamlessly blend pop, R&B, and funk into chart-topping hits. His unique style and charisma have inspired a new generation of artists who share similar qualities, making them stand out in today’s music scene.
In this article, we explore a selection of singers like Justin Timberlake—artists who not only captivate audiences with their versatile voices but also bring a fresh and dynamic energy to the world of pop and R&B.
Whether through their soulful melodies, innovative sounds, or electrifying performances, these singers are continuing the legacy of Timberlake’s genre-blurring artistry.
21 Talented Singers Similar to Justin Timberlake to Add to Your Playlist
Contents
- 1 21 Talented Singers Similar to Justin Timberlake to Add to Your Playlist
- 2 #1 Bruno Mars
- 3 #2 Usher
- 4 #3 Robin Thicke
- 5 #4 Ne-Yo
- 6 #5 Chris Brown
- 7 #6 The Weeknd
- 8 #7 John Legend
- 9 #8 Jason Derulo
- 10 #9 Pharrell Williams
- 11 #10 Miguel
- 12 #11 Charlie Puth
- 13 #12 Adam Levine
- 14 #13 Nick Jonas
- 15 #14 Shawn Mendes
- 16 #15 Zayn Malik
- 17 #16 Maxwell
- 18 #17 Enrique Iglesias
- 19 #18 Sam Smith
- 20 #19 Michael Bublé
- 21 #20 Trey Songz
- 22 #21 Justin Bieber
- 23 Frequently Asked Questions
These artists share similar qualities with Justin Timberlake, such as smooth vocals, a strong stage presence, and a fusion of pop and R&B influences.
Here’s a list of 21 singers who have similar styles or appeal as Justin Timberlake, known for their blend of pop, R&B, and soulful vocals:
#1 Bruno Mars
Bruno Mars, born Peter Gene Hernandez in 1985, is a multi-talented singer, songwriter, producer, and performer known for his infectious blend of pop, funk, R&B, and soul. Mars burst onto the music scene with his debut album Doo-Wops & Hooligans in 2010, which included hits like “Just the Way You Are” and “Grenade.” His ability to seamlessly blend genres, along with his smooth vocals and dynamic stage presence, quickly made him one of the biggest pop stars of the decade.
Mars continued to dominate the charts with his subsequent albums Unorthodox Jukebox and 24K Magic, earning numerous accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards. His singles “Locked Out of Heaven,” “Uptown Funk” (with Mark Ronson), and “That’s What I Like” further cemented his status as a global superstar. Known for his energetic performances and retro-inspired sound, Bruno Mars has become one of the most influential and successful artists of his generation, with a unique ability to connect with a wide range of audiences.
#2 Usher
Usher Raymond IV, born in 1978, is an American singer, songwriter, and dancer who has been a dominant force in R&B and pop music since the late 1990s. Usher first gained widespread fame with his 1997 album My Way, which included the hit singles “You Make Me Wanna…” and “Nice & Slow.” His smooth vocals, combined with his charismatic stage presence and impressive dance skills, helped him quickly rise to stardom.
Usher’s career reached new heights with the release of his 2004 album Confessions, which became one of the best-selling albums of the decade and produced hit singles like “Yeah!” and “Burn.” Throughout his career, Usher has won numerous awards, including eight Grammy Awards, and has sold millions of albums worldwide. He is also known for mentoring younger artists, including Justin Bieber. Usher’s influence on the music industry is significant, and he remains one of the most respected and successful R&B artists of all time.
#3 Robin Thicke
Robin Thicke, born in 1977, is an American singer, songwriter, and producer known for his smooth R&B sound and soulful vocals. Thicke first gained recognition in the early 2000s with his debut album A Beautiful World (2003), but it was his 2006 album The Evolution of Robin Thicke that brought him mainstream success, featuring the hit single “Lost Without U.” Thicke’s music is characterized by its blend of contemporary R&B, soul, and pop influences, and he is known for his falsetto voice and romantic lyrics.
Thicke’s career reached a new peak with the release of his 2013 single “Blurred Lines,” which became a global hit and topped the charts in multiple countries. Despite the controversy surrounding the song, it solidified Thicke’s status as a major player in the music industry. In addition to his solo work, Thicke has written and produced for other artists, showcasing his versatility and talent. His contributions to R&B and pop music have earned him a lasting place in the industry.
#4 Ne-Yo
Ne-Yo, born Shaffer Chimere Smith in 1979, is an American singer, songwriter, and producer known for his smooth vocals and songwriting prowess. Ne-Yo first gained recognition as a songwriter for other artists, penning hits like Mario’s “Let Me Love You,” before launching his own successful recording career with his 2006 debut album In My Own Words. The album included the chart-topping single “So Sick,” which established Ne-Yo as a leading figure in contemporary R&B.
Ne-Yo’s subsequent albums, including Because of You and Year of the Gentleman, produced a string of hit singles such as “Closer,” “Miss Independent,” and “Mad.” His music is known for its blend of R&B, pop, and dance elements, and he has been praised for his ability to craft catchy, emotionally resonant songs. In addition to his solo career, Ne-Yo has written and produced for a wide range of artists, making him one of the most influential figures in the music industry. His contributions to R&B and pop music have earned him multiple Grammy Awards and widespread acclaim.
#5 Chris Brown
Chris Brown, born in 1989 in Tappahannock, Virginia, is an American singer, songwriter, and dancer who quickly rose to fame as a teenager with his 2005 self-titled debut album, featuring the hit single “Run It!” Brown’s blend of R&B, pop, and hip-hop, combined with his impressive dance abilities, made him an instant star in the music industry. His follow-up albums, including Exclusive and Graffiti, solidified his place as one of the leading artists in contemporary R&B.
Despite his success, Brown’s career has been marked by personal and legal controversies, which have at times overshadowed his musical achievements. Nevertheless, he has continued to release successful albums and singles, including hits like “Forever,” “With You,” and “Loyal.” Brown’s influence on the music industry is significant, particularly in the realm of R&B and dance music, where he is known for his versatility and energetic performances. His ability to consistently produce chart-topping hits has kept him at the forefront of the music scene for over a decade.
#6 The Weeknd
The Weeknd, born Abel Makkonen Tesfaye in 1990 in Toronto, Canada, is a singer, songwriter, and producer known for his unique blend of R&B, pop, and electronic music. The Weeknd first gained attention in 2010 with his mixtapes House of Balloons, Thursday, and Echoes of Silence, which showcased his dark, moody sound and introspective lyrics. His debut studio album, Kiss Land (2013), received critical acclaim and set the stage for his commercial breakthrough.
The Weeknd’s career skyrocketed with the release of his 2015 album Beauty Behind the Madness, which included hit singles like “Can’t Feel My Face” and “The Hills.” His subsequent albums, Starboy and After Hours, further established him as one of the most innovative and successful artists of his generation, with hits like “Blinding Lights” becoming global anthems. The Weeknd’s music is characterized by its genre-blending style, emotional depth, and distinctive vocal delivery, making him one of the most influential artists in contemporary music.
#7 John Legend
John Legend, born John Roger Stephens in 1978 in Springfield, Ohio, is a renowned American singer, songwriter, and producer known for his soulful voice and sophisticated blend of R&B, gospel, and pop music. Legend first gained widespread recognition with his 2004 debut album Get Lifted, which included the hit single “Ordinary People” and earned him three Grammy Awards. His smooth vocals and heartfelt lyrics quickly established him as a leading figure in contemporary soul and R&B.
Legend’s subsequent albums, including Once Again and Evolver, solidified his place in the music industry, with hits like “Green Light” and “All of Me,” the latter becoming one of the best-selling digital singles of all time. In addition to his successful music career, Legend is known for his activism and philanthropy, particularly in education and criminal justice reform. His contributions to music and his efforts to create positive social change have earned him numerous accolades, including an Academy Award, a Golden Globe, and multiple Grammy Awards, making him one of the most respected artists of his generation.
#8 Jason Derulo
Jason Derulo, born Jason Joel Desrouleaux in 1989 in Miramar, Florida, is an American singer, songwriter, and dancer known for his catchy pop and R&B hits. Derulo first gained fame with his 2009 debut single “Whatcha Say,” which topped the Billboard Hot 100 and established him as a rising star in the music industry. His self-titled debut album followed in 2010, featuring hits like “In My Head” and “Ridin’ Solo.”
Derulo’s music is characterized by its infectious melodies, danceable beats, and smooth vocals, making him a favorite on both pop and R&B charts. He continued to release successful albums and singles, including “Talk Dirty,” “Wiggle,” and “Want to Want Me,” which further solidified his place in the pop music landscape. Derulo is also known for his impressive dance skills, often incorporating choreography into his performances and music videos. With over 50 million singles sold worldwide, Jason Derulo has become one of the most successful pop artists of the past decade.
#9 Pharrell Williams
Pharrell Williams, born in 1973 in Virginia Beach, Virginia, is an American singer, songwriter, producer, and entrepreneur known for his genre-defying music and innovative production work. Williams first rose to prominence as part of the production duo The Neptunes, alongside Chad Hugo, producing hit songs for artists like Britney Spears, Jay-Z, and Justin Timberlake. As a solo artist, Williams achieved massive success with his 2014 single “Happy,” which became a global phenomenon and earned him multiple awards, including Grammy Awards.
Williams’ music spans various genres, including pop, hip-hop, R&B, and funk, and he is known for his distinctive falsetto voice and eclectic style. In addition to his solo work, Williams is the lead vocalist of the band N.E.R.D., known for its fusion of rock, hip-hop, and electronic music. As a producer, Williams has had a profound influence on modern music, shaping the sound of numerous hits across multiple genres. His contributions to music, fashion, and culture have made him one of the most influential figures in the entertainment industry.
#10 Miguel
Miguel, born Miguel Jontel Pimentel in 1985 in Los Angeles, California, is an American singer, songwriter, and producer known for his sensual blend of R&B, funk, and rock. Miguel first gained attention with his 2010 debut album All I Want Is You, which included the hit single “Sure Thing” and showcased his unique sound and smooth vocals. However, it was his 2012 album Kaleidoscope Dream that brought him widespread acclaim, with hits like “Adorn” and “Do You…” earning him multiple Grammy nominations.
Miguel’s music is characterized by its experimental approach to R&B, incorporating elements of soul, funk, and electronic music to create a sound that is both modern and timeless. His third album, Wildheart (2015), further solidified his reputation as one of the most innovative artists in contemporary R&B, with its fusion of rock influences and introspective lyrics. Miguel’s ability to push the boundaries of R&B while maintaining mainstream appeal has made him a standout artist in the music industry.
#11 Charlie Puth
Charlie Puth, born in 1991 in Rumson, New Jersey, is an American singer, songwriter, and producer known for his smooth vocals and catchy pop melodies. Puth first gained widespread attention with his feature on Wiz Khalifa’s 2015 hit “See You Again,” which became a global success and topped the charts in multiple countries. His debut album, Nine Track Mind (2016), included hits like “Marvin Gaye” and “One Call Away,” establishing Puth as a rising star in the pop music scene.
Puth’s music is characterized by its blend of pop, R&B, and soulful elements, with his talent for writing and producing catchy hooks setting him apart from his peers. His second album, Voicenotes (2018), received critical acclaim for its mature sound and hit singles like “Attention” and “How Long.” Puth’s ability to craft well-produced, emotionally resonant songs has earned him a dedicated fanbase and a prominent place in the contemporary pop landscape.
#12 Adam Levine
Adam Levine, born in 1979 in Los Angeles, California, is the lead vocalist of the pop-rock band Maroon 5 and one of the most recognizable voices in contemporary pop music. Levine and Maroon 5 first gained fame with their 2002 debut album Songs About Jane, which included hits like “This Love” and “She Will Be Loved.” Levine’s distinctive voice, characterized by its falsetto range and emotive delivery, helped propel the band to international success.
Over the years, Levine has continued to lead Maroon 5 to chart-topping success with albums like It Won’t Be Soon Before Long, Overexposed, and V, featuring hits like “Moves Like Jagger,” “Sugar,” and “Girls Like You.” In addition to his work with Maroon 5, Levine has pursued a successful solo career and served as a coach on the popular television show The Voice, where he mentored aspiring singers. His contributions to pop music, both as a bandleader and solo artist, have made him one of the most influential figures in the industry.
#13 Nick Jonas
Nick Jonas, born in 1992 in Dallas, Texas, is an American singer, songwriter, and actor who first rose to fame as a member of the Jonas Brothers, a pop band formed with his brothers Kevin and Joe. The Jonas Brothers achieved massive success in the late 2000s, becoming teen idols with hits like “S.O.S.” and “Burnin’ Up.” After the group’s initial breakup in 2013, Nick Jonas pursued a successful solo career, reinventing himself as a mature pop and R&B artist.
His 2014 self-titled solo album included the hit singles “Jealous” and “Chains,” showcasing a more sophisticated sound and earning him critical acclaim. Jonas continued to build on this success with his subsequent albums and singles, further establishing himself as a versatile and talented artist. In addition to his music career, Jonas has also pursued acting, appearing in films and television shows. His ability to transition from a teen pop star to a respected solo artist has made him a standout figure in the entertainment industry.
#14 Shawn Mendes
Shawn Mendes, born in 1998 in Pickering, Ontario, Canada, is a singer, songwriter, and musician who gained fame through social media before becoming one of the biggest pop stars of his generation. Mendes first gained attention by posting cover songs on Vine, which led to a record deal and the release of his debut single “Life of the Party” in 2014. His debut album, Handwritten (2015), debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart, featuring the hit single “Stitches.”
Mendes’ music is known for its blend of pop, folk, and rock influences, with his heartfelt lyrics and acoustic sound resonating with a wide audience. His subsequent albums, Illuminate and Shawn Mendes, produced hits like “Treat You Better,” “There’s Nothing Holdin’ Me Back,” and “In My Blood,” further establishing him as a major force in pop music. Mendes’ ability to connect with fans through his relatable lyrics and genuine persona has earned him a dedicated global fanbase and numerous awards.
#15 Zayn Malik
Zayn Malik, born in 1993 in Bradford, England, first rose to fame as a member of the globally successful boy band One Direction. Malik’s distinctive voice and edgy persona made him a fan favorite during his time with the group, which released several chart-topping albums and singles. In 2015, Malik left One Direction to pursue a solo career, seeking to explore a more mature and personal musical style.
His debut solo album, Mind of Mine (2016), was a commercial success, with the lead single “Pillowtalk” debuting at number one in several countries. Malik’s music blends R&B, pop, and electronic influences, showcasing his smooth vocals and experimental approach. His subsequent albums, Icarus Falls and Nobody Is Listening, further established him as a versatile artist with a distinct sound, distancing himself from his boy band origins. Malik’s ability to successfully transition from a pop group to a solo artist has made him one of the most prominent figures in contemporary music.
#16 Maxwell
Maxwell, born Gerald Maxwell Rivera in 1973 in Brooklyn, New York, is an American singer, songwriter, and producer known for his smooth vocals and pioneering role in the neo-soul movement. Maxwell first gained widespread attention with his 1996 debut album Maxwell’s Urban Hang Suite, which was critically acclaimed for its sophisticated blend of R&B, jazz, and soul. The album’s success, featuring hits like “Ascension (Don’t Ever Wonder),” positioned Maxwell as a leading figure in the resurgence of soul music in the 1990s.
Maxwell continued to release successful albums, including Embrya, Now, and BLACKsummers’night, each showcasing his rich voice, introspective lyrics, and intricate production. His music often explores themes of love, relationships, and self-discovery, resonating deeply with audiences. Maxwell’s influence on the R&B and soul genres is significant, and his ability to maintain artistic integrity while achieving commercial success has earned him critical acclaim and a loyal fanbase.
#17 Enrique Iglesias
Enrique Iglesias, born in 1975 in Madrid, Spain, is a Spanish singer, songwriter, and record producer who has achieved massive success in both the Latin and English-speaking music markets. Iglesias first gained fame in the mid-1990s with his Spanish-language albums, earning a large following with hits like “Bailamos” and “Hero.” His crossover into the English-language market in the early 2000s further propelled him to international stardom.
Iglesias’ music blends pop, Latin, and dance influences, making him one of the best-selling Latin music artists in history. His albums Escape, Insomniac, and Euphoria produced numerous chart-topping singles, including “I Like It” and “Tonight (I’m Lovin’ You).” Known for his charismatic stage presence and romantic ballads, Iglesias has won numerous awards, including Grammy Awards and Latin Grammy Awards. His ability to connect with diverse audiences worldwide has made him a global music icon.
#18 Sam Smith
Sam Smith, born in 1992 in London, England, is a British singer and songwriter known for their powerful voice and emotional ballads. Smith first gained attention as the featured vocalist on Disclosure’s 2012 hit “Latch,” followed by their collaboration with Naughty Boy on “La La La,” which topped the UK charts. Smith’s debut album, In the Lonely Hour (2014), was a massive success, featuring the hit singles “Stay With Me” and “I’m Not the Only One.”
Smith’s music is characterized by its soulful vocals, heartfelt lyrics, and themes of love, heartbreak, and self-acceptance. Their second album, The Thrill of It All (2017), continued their success, earning critical acclaim and commercial success. Smith has received numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards, an Academy Award, and a Golden Globe. Their ability to convey deep emotion through their music has made them one of the most respected and influential artists in contemporary pop and soul music.
#19 Michael Bublé
Michael Bublé, born in 1975 in Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada, is a Canadian singer, songwriter, and actor known for his smooth vocals and modern interpretations of classic jazz and pop standards. Bublé first gained international fame with his 2003 self-titled album, which featured his renditions of songs like “Fever” and “Moondance.” His charismatic stage presence and warm voice quickly made him a favorite among audiences worldwide.
Bublé’s subsequent albums, including It’s Time and Call Me Irresponsible, solidified his status as a leading contemporary crooner, with hits like “Haven’t Met You Yet” and “Everything” becoming fan favorites. In addition to his work with jazz and big band music, Bublé has also successfully incorporated pop elements into his sound, appealing to a broad audience. His ability to bridge the gap between classic and contemporary music has earned him multiple Grammy Awards and a dedicated global fanbase.
#20 Trey Songz
Trey Songz, born Tremaine Aldon Neverson in 1984 in Petersburg, Virginia, is an American singer, songwriter, and actor known for his smooth R&B sound and charismatic stage presence. Songz first gained recognition with his 2005 debut album I Gotta Make It, which introduced his blend of contemporary R&B and hip-hop influences. His breakthrough came with the release of his third album, Ready (2009), which included hits like “I Need a Girl” and “Say Aah.”
Songz’s music often explores themes of love, relationships, and desire, with his sultry vocals and catchy hooks earning him a loyal fanbase. He has continued to release successful albums, including Passion, Pain & Pleasure and Trigga, further establishing himself as a leading figure in modern R&B. In addition to his music career, Songz has also pursued acting, appearing in films and television shows. His contributions to R&B have earned him numerous awards and recognition, making him one of the most influential artists in the genre.
#21 Justin Bieber
Justin Bieber, born in 1994 in London, Ontario, Canada, is a global pop superstar who first gained fame as a teen sensation with his 2009 debut single “One Time.” Discovered on YouTube by talent manager Scooter Braun, Bieber quickly became one of the most recognizable faces in pop music, with hits like “Baby” and “Somebody to Love” dominating the charts. His early success led to a massive fanbase, known as “Beliebers,” and numerous accolades, including American Music Awards and Billboard Music Awards.
As Bieber matured, so did his music, with albums like Purpose (2015) and Changes (2020) showcasing a more sophisticated sound that blends pop, R&B, and electronic influences. Hits like “Sorry,” “Love Yourself,” and “Yummy” have solidified his place as one of the most successful pop artists of his generation. Despite facing personal and professional challenges, Bieber has maintained his status as a global music icon, with a career that continues to evolve and influence the pop music landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Bruno Mars similar to Justin Timberlake?
Bruno Mars, like Justin Timberlake, is known for his versatile musical style that blends pop, R&B, funk, and soul, along with his dynamic stage presence and smooth vocals. Both artists have achieved massive commercial success and are celebrated for their ability to craft hit songs across multiple genres.
How did Usher influence Justin Timberlake’s music?
Usher’s impact on R&B and pop, especially with his smooth vocal delivery and dance-oriented music, set a standard that influenced Justin Timberlake’s approach to blending R&B with pop. Timberlake has often cited Usher as an influence in his transition from boy band pop to a more mature, R&B-infused solo career.
Why is The Weeknd compared to Justin Timberlake?
The Weeknd is often compared to Justin Timberlake due to his ability to blend pop with R&B, his falsetto-driven vocal style, and his evolution from niche artist to mainstream success. Both artists are known for their innovative sound and significant impact on contemporary music.
What role does dance play in the careers of singers like Justin Timberlake and Jason Derulo?
Dance is a crucial element in the performances of both Justin Timberlake and Jason Derulo, complementing their music with choreography that enhances their stage presence. Their ability to combine singing with impressive dance routines has contributed significantly to their popularity and appeal.
