Timberlake Addresses ‘Boots and Cats’ Era

Justin Timberlake has reflected on his past inclinations towards beatboxing, issuing an apology for what he termed his “ambitions” during that period. In a comment on an Instagram post by social media creator Hannah Young, Timberlake expressed regret, stating, “I often look back on that time as well. I still haven’t come up with any answers. I don’t know how to apologize enough for whatever those ambitions were.” He specifically referenced the repetitive vocal sounds, such as “Too many boots. Too many cats,” and concluded his apology with, “I hope you can forgive me.”

Young’s original video, posted in October 2026, highlighted Timberlake’s frequent beatboxing during songs and performances, even during his time with *NSYNC and his solo career. She noted the widespread acceptance of these vocal flourishes at the time, questioning why no one advised him to use available instruments instead. “Nobody said, ‘Justin, you know, we have drums. This is a professional recording studio. There are instruments available to you.’ But no, Justin Timberlake wanted to make space noises with his mouth,” Young commented, as reported by Stereogum.

A Warning for the Future

Despite his apology, Timberlake issued a cautionary note regarding future performances. “Also, I can’t promise I won’t do it again,” he admitted. This statement, described as being made in a “threatening tone” by VICE, suggests that the beatboxing habit may not be entirely in the past. The sentiment was echoed by Young, who observed that viewers at the time were impressed, thinking, “Oh my God, what can’t he do?”

Timberlake’s beatboxing was a notable characteristic throughout his career, from his *NSYNC days to his collaborations with Timbaland. While some instances, like the vocalizations in “Cry Me A River,” are considered by some as integral to the song’s success, the practice has more recently become a point of public discussion and often, humour.