Justin Timberlake Talks Hiatus, 'Legends' Tour, & Jay-Z on '106 & Park'

Following a full week on “Late Night,” Justin Timberlake brought his 20/20 Experience to BET’s “106 & Park.” The pop star sat down with hosts Bow Wow and Paigion and reminisced on his musical legacy by watching a clip of his first appearance on the show with ‘NYSYNC. He discussed the process of recording his new album, collaborating with Jay-Z (“He’s the greatest”), and his tight-knit bond with Timbaland (“We’re like brothers”).

“I feel like a kid again with this record,” said the 32-year-old singer of his third album The 20/20 Experience, which arrives in stores Tuesday. “It’s an experience from top to bottom.”

He explained why he took over six years to release the project. “I kinda like to take my time. I like to live life. I like to know what I’m talking about when I’m writing a song. I guess I just don’t rush it. … I don’t feel like every song I write has to come out. I want to be as excited as anyone else would.”

He revealed that “Suit & Tie” came about when he was in the studio with Beyoncé. “I was with Tim and we were working on some stuff for Ms. Beyoncé, and she made the mistake of letting Jay and I have another room at the studio. I don’t want to give too much away, but we’ve done a lot of songs together, so hopefully those will find a way to see the light of day.”

His “Legends of the Summer” tour with Jay-Z kicks off July 17 in Toronto. “Originally it started off as a novelty type of idea and we were laughing about it,” said J.T. But before he knew it, Jay had already mapped out dates.

The former “Mickey Mouse Club” star also shared his tips for longevity. “You gotta stay humble. You gotta stay hungry. Practice counts.”

Co-hosts Shorty Da Prince and Miss Mykie warmed his heart with a musical tribute to his career. “‘106,’ we messin’ with that ‘Suit & Tie,'” they rapped.