Since NSYNC hit the music scene 30 years ago, Justin Timberlake has been dominating the music industry. As a solo artist, he’s won dozens of awards, including ten Grammys and nine Billboard Awards. His smooth tenor vocals and impressive dance moves have led fans to travel the world to attend his sold-out shows.
Shockingly, fans have been taking to social media lately, complaining about Timberlake’s concerts, even demanding refunds. Attendees are saying he is not singing much or dancing during his concerts, and the shows lack energy. Fans are wondering what is going on and expressing that they felt cheated after attending his concert.
As Timberlake wrapped up his latest two-year tour, he took to social media to reveal a health diagnosis that he’s been battling for some time: Lyme disease.
“Well, as these two incredible years come to an end and I look forward to the future, I wanted to write something from the heart. It’s not an easy task to try to contextualize the whirlwind of touring –– but, I will try…
“This has been the most fun, emotional, gratifying, physically demanding, and, at times, grueling experience. I have been doing this for 30+ years (which feels crazy to say) –– and have given all that I have to this. I could not have done it without my family, friends, The TN Kids, and all of YOUR support.
As many of you know, I’m a pretty private person. But as I’m reflecting on the tour and festival tour – I want to tell you a little bit about what’s going on with me.
Among other things, I’ve been battling some health issues, and was diagnosed with Lyme disease -— which I don’t say so you feel bad for me –– but to shed some light on what I’ve been up against behind the scenes. If you’ve experienced this disease or know someone who has — then you’re aware: living with this can be relentlessly debilitating, both mentally and physically. When I first got the diagnosis I was shocked for sure. But, at least I could understand why I would be onstage and in a massive amount of nerve pain or, just feeling crazy fatigue or sickness. I was faced with a personal decision. Stop touring? Or, keep going and figure it out. I decided the joy that performing brings me far outweighs the fleeting stress my body was feeling. I’m so glad I kept going.
Not only did I prove my mental tenacity to myself but, I now have so many special moments with all of you that I will never forget. I was reluctant to talk about this because I was always raised to keep something like this to yourself. But I am trying to be more transparent about my struggles so that they aren’t misinterpreted.
Sharing all of this with the hope that we can all find a way to be more connected. I’d like to do my part to help others experiencing this disease too.“
Timberlake’s diagnosis sheds light on why his energy level has been nonexistent during his concerts.
Lyme disease is a bacterial infection spread to humans from ticks. Symptoms include rash, fever, chills, headache, fatigue, muscle and joint pain, and swollen lymph nodes. If not treated, it can cause serious health problems by affecting the heart and nervous system. It can also cause stiff neck, facial paralysis, Irregular heartbeat, arthritis, and neurological problems. These symptoms fall in line with what Timberlake says he was experiencing on stage. Though he waited until after his tour was over to reveal the illness, fans can now understand it was impossible for him to deliver the high-energy performance we are all accustomed to. The great news is he should begin to feel better after 2 to 4 weeks of antibiotics. In some cases, people with Lyme disease may experience lingering headaches and fatigue up to six months after the disease is out of their system.
Timberlake’s experience with Lyme disease brings to the forefront that everyone should take precautions to avoid contracting this disease when working in grass or visiting wooded areas.. Here are a few tips to keep you safe during your next outing.
- Limit skin exposure by wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants
- Spray your clothes with an insect repellent that contains DEET
- Wear a hat
- Wear closed-toe shoes
- Wear light colored clothes so that you can easily see a tick if it gets on your clothes
- Walk on trails and avoid walking through tall grass and brush if possible
- If you have dogs, talk to your vet about options to protect your pet and prevent them from bringing ticks into your home
We always hear doctors and our parents say, “listen to your body.” If you are not feeling well, do not blow it off and think it will pass. Take steps to get to the root of the issue by making an appointment to see a physician immediately. Prolonging symptoms can lead to more serious health conditions and, in some cases, death. So take care of yourself.
As for the Justin Timberlake fans who were disappointed with his performance, give him a break. Catch his next tour, and I’m sure he will make up for what was lacking, delivering an amazing performance with all the bells and whistles.