The competition is pretty simple... all you have to do is register online, create a Jam, Youtube it, share it with everyone you can, and raise money for StarJam, a New Zealand super-charity (founded by Julie Bartlett) that empowers and inspires disabled kids through performance. Entry can be from anywhere in the world, likewise so can support.
But how on earth did StarJam manage to get Justin Timberlake on board? Turns out it was as simple as sending a short online video from one very special Jammer. This coupled with Justin Timberlake’s humble generosity has made for a very exciting 2011 competition. (Lets face it, who wouldn’t want to meet Timberlake... IN VEGAS!!)
Justin Timberlake has always been involved with charities and has even donated over $100,000 to Wildlife Warriors in Australia (founded by the late Steve Irwin). In 2009 Timberlakes celebrity endorsement to the Shriners Hospitals for Children was the single most valuable endorsement in the US worth over an estimated USD$9M.
When it comes to entertainers with true brand power there are a handful of what I would class ‘superbrands’ and Justin Timberlake (or JT if you’re street) is definitely one. In an age of manufactured pop sensations Justin Timberlake is living proof that there is no substitution for pure talent. He can perform, write, produce and as it turns out, act... superbly.
As a contestant on ‘Star Search’ this converted into an opportunity with the Disney Channel where he became a resident talent on ‘The New Mickey Mouse Club’. He extended his fame in the 90‘s by becoming the lead singer of record breaking boy band ‘N Sync. However it wasn’t until he went solo in 2002 that Timberlake became a household name and favoured Google keyword. He has grown and transitioned from child talent, to teen heart throb, to sophisticated urban RnB star. What surprises me is his ability to seem ever humble and despite huge fame, somewhat normal.
With six Grammy’s and two Emmys under his belt Timberlake has been paying his dues on the acting circuit. First with bit roles and supporting characters slowly building up to a position on Hollywoods A-list. With some highly convincing performances is films such as Alpha Dog he has broken the mold as very few have managed to do to be taken seriously as an actor after a pop career. Most notable is his role as Sean Parker (founder of Napster) in the Fincher hit ‘The Social Network’. Keep an eye out for his new hit, soon to be released ‘In Time’.
There are moments where people in this world really impress me and make me think there still some great role models. Justin Timberlake is as much an inspiration as the kids at StarJam. To think he is at the top of his game, in a lifestyle and situation that must be tricky to manage and control, yet he finds time to help a charity in New Zealand from one small online video. Wow.
Fantastic work Al
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