What makes Take Back the Night by Justin Timberlake notable?

'Take Back the Night' debuted at number 29 on the Billboard Hot 100 and was praised for its throwback vibe reminiscent of disco and funk influences. The song's success contributed to the overall positive reception of 'The 20/20 Experience,' which received multiple Grammy nominations and solidified Timberlake’s standing in contemporary pop music. Released in 2013, 'Take Back the Night' marked Justin Timberlake's return to music after a seven-year hiatus following his acclaimed album 'FutureSex/LoveSounds.' This single served as the lead for 'The 20/20 Experience,' which re-established Timberlake as a dominant force in pop music, showcasing his growth from boy band member to solo artist.

How many songs are on Take Back the Night?

Take Back the Night has 1 track, running approximately 5 minutes.

Take Back the Night

Justin Timberlake · 2013

5 min · 1 track · contemporary R&B

A vibrant fusion of contemporary R&B and electropop rhythms, underscored by smooth vocals and danceable grooves.

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Top tracks — play these first

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N/A — The production blends vintage funk with modern pop, creating an infectious energy that encourages listeners to dance and celebrate nightlife.
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N/A — Timberlake's vocal delivery showcases his smooth falsetto against a backdrop of layered harmonies, highlighting his evolution as a vocalist.
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N/A — The lyrical themes of reclaiming joy and freedom resonate with listeners, tying into a broader narrative of empowerment prevalent in pop music around this time.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

54 /100

Foothills

Higher than 43% of albums we've rated

The song blends contemporary R&B with disco influences, showcasing strong production and engaging rhythms.

What we noticed

The track features a steady four-on-the-floor beat with syncopated bass lines that create a danceable groove.
Vocals are layered with harmonies, and the chorus employs call-and-response elements, enhancing its rhythmic drive.
The production includes bright synths and brass stabs that evoke a retro disco feel, while maintaining a modern pop sensibility.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 4/10

Influence 3/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — 'Take Back the Night' marked Timberlake's return and re-established his presence in pop music.
Themes: nighttime celebration· urban dance floors· post-hiatus resurgence
Career context: Released in 2013, 'Take Back the Night' marked Justin Timberlake's return to music after a seven-year hiatus following his acclaimed album 'FutureSex/LoveSounds.' This single served as the lead for 'The 20/20 Experience,' which re-established Timberlake as a dominant force in pop music, showcasing his growth from boy band member to solo artist.
Stylistic neighbors: Usher· Bruno Mars· The Weeknd