Justin Timberlake was already emerging as the most recognizable member of *NSYNC even before the band went on hiatus. As Bianca Gracie noted in an article for Billboard, his vocals typically featured on the hooks of the group’s biggest hits, meaning he was the focus of the songs’ catchiest moments. And when it came to public awareness, he also generated far more headlines than any of his bandmates thanks to his much-scrutinized relationship with fellow pop star Britney Spears, who at the time was at the height of her fame.
Meanwhile, JC Chasez remained a respected member of the group. His vocals carried many of the verses and choruses — as Gracie explains — and during his tenure in *NSYNC he took an active interest in growing his talent by developing his songwriting and production abilities. When the group split, both fans and those close to *NSYNC expected Chasez to become a notable solo artist in his own right.
But Timberlake beat Chasez to the punch with his 2002 album “Justified,” released within months of *NSYNC announcing their hiatus. The album won Timberlake a Grammy Award, as did its international hit single, “Cry Me a River.” The following year, Timberlake featured on Black Eyed Peas’ smash “Where Is the Love?” which saw his star rise further — all before Chasez had a solo release to his name.
