Having grown up in Memphis, Tennessee, Justin Timberlake loves him some country music. So, when the pop singer played Nashville Tennessee last week, it wasn’t too surprising when he was joined on stage by Garth Brooks, for a performance of the country legend’s “I’ve Got Friends in Low Places.”
The crowd roared with delight and sang along as the two performed. Justin may be the king of blue eyed R&B, but he can strap a guitar around his neck and sing with a credible twang.
Interestingly, back in 1999, Garth released an ill-conceived record as self-created, pop alter-ego, Chris Gaines in which he mocked/aped Justin Timberlake and his fellow boy band stars of the day.
No hard feelings! These days, crossover has replaced competition, as Grady Smith points out in a recent article for The Guardian.
…Timberlake’s flirtation with country music isn’t straight out of left field. While promoting Inside Llewyn Davis in late 2013, Timberlake spoke openly about his desire to get a foot in the door of Music Row. “There’s still so much that can happen in Nashville, and I look to the future and I want to be a part of it,” Timberlake told the Tennesseean. “And I’m not just blowing smoke.”
Grady points out that Justin is not alone, citing recent pop to country crossovers by Kelly Clarkson, Katy Perry (recording with Kacey Musgraves), Sheryl Crow and Lionel Richie. Don’t forget Darius Rucker, who has found new life in country after his 90s run with pop group, Hootie & The Blowfish.
It’s OK if Taylor Swift leaves country for pop! You know that she’ll eventually return when fickle pop fans wane.
Watch the TEN MINUTE performance, recorded at Bridgestone arena on Friday night (Dec 19). The duo even sing the “kiss my ass” verse Garth usually omits in concert.
