Review: Justin Timberlake Dazzles and Disappoints in St. Paul
Justin Timberlake’s highly anticipated tour stop in St. Paul, Minnesota, was a night filled with electrifying highs and a few unexpected lows. The pop icon, known for his smooth vocals, effortless dance moves, and undeniable stage presence, delivered a performance that left some fans in awe—and others slightly underwhelmed.
A Spectacle of Showmanship
From the moment Timberlake stepped onto the stage, he commanded the crowd with his signature charisma. Kicking off the night with a high-energy performance of “Can’t Stop the Feeling,” he had the entire Xcel Energy Center on their feet, singing and dancing along. His setlist was a carefully curated mix of old favorites and new hits, spanning his decades-long career. Songs like “SexyBack,” “Cry Me a River,” and “My Love” reminded fans why he remains a dominant force in pop music.
Visually, the show was a spectacle. Dazzling light displays, massive LED screens, and immersive stage effects created an experience that felt both grand and intimate. Timberlake’s signature choreography was as sharp as ever, proving that—even at 43—his dance moves are still some of the best in the business.
The Moments That Fell Flat
Despite the high-energy performances and sleek production, there were moments where the concert lost its momentum. Some of the newer material from his upcoming album didn’t resonate with the audience as strongly as his classic hits. While Timberlake remains an incredibly skilled performer, the pacing of the show sometimes dragged, with longer-than-expected transitions between songs that dampened the crowd’s energy.
Additionally, there were moments when his vocals seemed slightly strained, particularly during ballads like “What Goes Around… Comes Around” and “Mirrors.” While he still delivered passionate performances, some fans noted that his voice didn’t always hit the powerful notes with the same ease as in years past.
A Nostalgic Connection with Fans
One of the concert’s highlights was Timberlake’s genuine connection with the audience. He frequently interacted with fans, sharing personal anecdotes and reminiscing about his time in Minnesota. He even took a moment to acknowledge his ’90s boy band roots, playfully teasing the crowd with a snippet of an NSYNC classic—much to the delight of longtime fans.
Final Verdict
Timberlake’s St. Paul show was a testament to his enduring talent, but it wasn’t without its flaws. While his stage presence, nostalgia-filled setlist, and dance routines kept the crowd engaged, some elements—like vocal inconsistencies and uneven pacing—prevented it from being a flawless performance. Still, for fans of The 20/20 Experience, FutureSex/LoveSounds, and Justified, the night was a thrilling ride through pop history that proved why Timberlake remains a star, even if he’s no longer at his peak.
