Bringing Sexy Back: Justin Timberlake Lights Up Belsonic!

The excitement in the air was palpable as we gathered at Ormeau Park for what promised to be a spectacular evening of music at Belsonic 2025. The stage was set for none other thanJustin Timberlake, supported by multi-platinum selling artist Jess Glynne and the immensely talented Olivia Lunny, with whom I’ve had the pleasure of chatting not once, but twice!

As the sun began to set, Olivia Lunny kicked off the night with her enchanting presence. With her latest offerings from her second album, “Velvet & Denim,” and a few fan favourites, she stole the show right from the get-go. Dressed in a stunning black lace outfit, Olivia effortlessly commanded the stage, even as the wind tried to steal the spotlight. Her performance of “City of Angels” and “Marilyn” showcased her powerful vocals and undeniable charm. Trust me, if you’re not following her on Instagram (@olivialunny), you’re missing out on one of tomorrow’s music stars!

Oliva Lunny Photos: @jessmeadephoto

Next up was Jess Glynne, making her third appearance in Belfast, and let me tell you, she did not disappoint. Having previously headlined at Belsonic eight years ago and at CHSQ six years back, Jess brought her A-game with a full band and backing singers, filling the venue with pop and funk vibes. The crowd was quick to join in when she started belting out hits like “Don’t Be So Hard On Yourself,” “I’ll Be There,” and “Right Here.” The atmosphere was electric, transforming the park into a huge celebration of positivity and good vibes.

As if that wasn’t enough, Jess took us all on an emotional journey with her song “Take Me Home.” It's always a treat to hear her heartfelt messages woven into infectious melodies. Of course, she wrapped up her set with the quintessential crowd-pleaser “Hold My Hand,” reminiscing about Jet2 holidays in true Jess style while eliciting laughs from the audience.

Jess Gylnn Photos: Gary Campion

The anticipation was thick in the air as we awaited the main event. Justin Timberlake, the multi-talented powerhouse, was about to take the stage. As night fell, the full band, complete with a brass section and four backing singers, arrived, and Justin burst onto the scene with the electrifying “Mirrors.” Clad in baggy cargo trousers, a stylish hooded jacket, and shades, he had everybody instantly captivated.

His performance of “Cry Me A River” sent the crowd into a frenzy, with 20,000 voices coming together to sing every line. The energy was through the roof, so much so that it took Justin a good five minutes to soak in the moment before moving on. And honestly, you could see the pride and joy on his face, reinforcing the bond he shares with his fans despite any past controversies.

Justin Timberlake has always been an artist who knows how to cross genres, effortlessly transitioning from his NSYNCdays to a credible R&B and dance sound. With over 30 years in the industry, selling more than 54 million albums and 63 million singles globally, it’s clear he’s a music icon. As he performed, he took us on a whirlwind journey through his impressive career, showcasing his versatility and growth as an artist. 

Justin Timberlake Photos: Tremaine Gregg

From dance breaks to acoustic numbers, the concert felt like an extraordinary experience rather than just a regular show. It was a celebration of decades of music, with a perfect blend of old and new hits. Justin’s connection with his band and backup singers was heartwarming; they worked together seamlessly, sharing the spotlight and allowing each member to shine.

The crowd was treated to a rich medley of unforgettable songs. Justin revisited classics like “Like I Love You,” “Rock Your Body,” and “Sexy Back,” while also featuring more recent hits like “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” and “Selfish.”Each song was met with thunderous applause and spirited singing from the audience, creating a truly communal experience.

The backing singers, who included two males and two females, added extraordinary depth to each track. Their heavenly harmonies elevated the performance, showcasing their individual talents while enhancing Justin's sound. It was a true highlight to witness how well they came together, enriching every song with their incredible vocal prowess.

As the night progressed, it became clear that this wasn't just a concert; it was a celebration of artistry, connection, and shared experiences. Whether you were a longtime fan or just discovering Justin Timberlake, everyone was caught up in the magic of the moment. The vibrant atmosphere, fueled by exceptional performances and a diverse lineup, made this gig one for the books.

As the final notes of “Until the end of time” echoed through Ormeau Park, the energy remained electric, and it was clear the night had been a resounding success. With Olivia Lunnyand Jess Glynne setting the stage ablaze, Justin Timberlake brought it home with a show that felt like a personal journey through music, filled with nostalgia and excitement.

In a world where live music often brings people together in beautiful ways, Belsonic is always a perfect reminder of why we cherish these moments. Here’s to more nights like this, filled with rhythm, joy, and the timeless power of music!