After nearly two decades of conjuring up solo hits Justin Timberlake will receive the Contemporary Icon Award at the 50th anniversary gala of the Songwriter’s Hall of Fame on Thursday.
He broke down how he wrote several of his biggest hits for Billboard including "SexyBack," a song that still feels futuristic even 13 years after its release, but it turns out it was actually inspired by a 45 year-old hit by a rock legend.
"It came about after I had been listening to David Bowie for weeks," JT says. "I wanted something with that same unapologetic feeling as 'Rebel Rebel,' that feeling of being completely comfortable with yourself. After the song came out I was walking around NYC when I crossed paths with a UPS delivery guy who shouted, 'Hey, JT! I'm bringing sexy back!' He was wearing the uniform and everything, but in that moment he felt that way and that was awesome."
Congrats to Justin on his well-deserved songwriting honor.
Photo: Getty Images