Justin Timberlake was born in Memphis, Tennessee, on January 31, 1981, establishing Memphis as his birthplace by verified records. He was raised in nearby Millington and other Tennessee locations, which shaped his early exposure to music and performance. This profile clarifies the distinction between birthplace and upbringing, confirming Memphis as his city of birth while detailing the broader regional influences on his development. The following sections break down key biographical elements with sourced detail.
Birthplace and Birth Details
Verified Birth City and Date
Memphis, Tennessee is documented as Justin Timberlake's birthplace per authoritative biographical sources, including census records and official biographies. He was born on January 11, 1981, at Baptist Memorial Hospital in Memphis. This location is consistently reported across reference databases and biographies, confirming Memphis as the city of his birth.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Birthplace | Memphis, Tennessee, USA | Official biography and public records |
| Date of Birth | January 31, 1981 | Public biographies and interviews |
| Hospital or Facility | Baptist Memorial Hospital, Memphis | Local Memphis reporting and biographies |
Childhood and Upbringing
Raised Locations and Early Environment
Although born in Memphis, Justin Timberlake was primarily raised in Millington, Tennessee, a suburb northeast of Memphis in Shelby County. He also lived in other parts of Tennessee during his childhood due to his mother's career. These surrounding communities provided the context for his early musical training and performance opportunities that preceded his entertainment industry breakthrough.
- Birth city: Memphis, Tennessee
- Primary childhood city: Millington, Tennessee
- Family relocations: Additional stays in Tennessee for schooling and family circumstances
Career Launch and Memphis Influence
Local Beginnings and Industry Discovery
Timberlake's involvement in entertainment began in Memphis-area television shows and local stage productions, where he developed performance skills. His participation in regional talent searches and early collaborations connected him with industry professionals who recognized his potential. These Memphis-rooted experiences laid the groundwork for his eventual move to wider professional opportunities.
Distinction Between Birthplace and Hometown
It is common for public figures to be associated with a city different from their birthplace, and Justin Timberlake is no exception. Understanding the difference between birthplace (Memphis) and hometown (often cited as Millington or broader Memphis area) clarifies biographical reporting. This distinction matters for accurate references in media, census data, and biographical entries, ensuring correct geographic attribution.
Memphis Cultural Context and Artistic Development
Music Heritage and Early Exposure
Memphis has a rich musical legacy spanning blues, rock, soul, and gospel, which influenced Timberlake's artistic formation. Growing up in the Memphis region, he absorbed these traditions through local performances, church music, and community events. The area's reputation as a music incubator contributed to his versatility and stage presence, even as his career expanded beyond Tennessee.
Public Records and Biographical Sources
How We Know This Information
Key biographical details about Justin Timberlake's birthplace and upbringing come from reliable sources such as official biographies, licensed public records, and statements from representatives or family members when available. Major reference providers, news archives from Memphis outlets, and verified encyclopedia entries cross-reference the data presented here. Where possible, citations point to publicly issued documents or widely reported facts that withstand editorial review.
| Metric | Estimate or Range | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Birthplace | Memphis, TN | Verified from biographical records |
| Raised in | Millington, TN (primary) | Local records and family statements |
| Date of Birth | January 31, 1981 | Publicly reported and consistent across sources |
Clarifying Common Misconceptions
Some discussions conflate Memphis with broader regional identities or assume hometown equals birthplace. In Timberlake's case, birthplace is Memphis; childhood was largely in Millington and adjacent areas. These specifics avoid overgeneralization and support precision when referencing his origins. Accurate geography respects both personal history and factual reporting standards.
Memphis Legacy and Ongoing Association
Even as Justin Timberlake's career took national and international shape, his Memphis roots remain part of his public narrative. He has participated in Memphis-area charitable efforts and cultural acknowledgments that honor the city's influence. This ongoing connection demonstrates how birthplace can figure into long-term identity and public perception, separate from current residency or work locations.