Girlfriend (the Neptunes Remix) May 2026

To accommodate Nelly’s inclusion, the original music video was re-edited, splicing in footage of the rapper and Timberlake and removing a drag racing sequence. 📈 Chart & Cultural Impact

The Neptunes replaced the original production with their signature "lush minimalism".

Fans often debate whether the song is "Y2K" or "2K1" era, but it remains a staple of 2000s music retrospectives. NSYNC's Girlfriend Remix: A Classic Collaboration - TikTok Girlfriend (The Neptunes Remix)

The song hit #1 in Canada and the Top 10 in the UK, Germany, and Australia.

When "Girlfriend" was first selected as the third single from *NSYNC's Celebrity album, the plan was to release the original version. However, Timberlake, having developed a rapport with Pharrell Williams and Chad Hugo in clubs, pushed for a Neptunes-produced overhaul. This collaboration proved to be a "dry run" for Timberlake's solo debut, Justified , which The Neptunes would go on to produce almost entirely later that year. 🎤 Nelly’s Career Risk To accommodate Nelly’s inclusion, the original music video

It was *NSYNC's final Top 10 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 before their long hiatus.

The track features dry drums and a signature minimalist groove. NSYNC's Girlfriend Remix: A Classic Collaboration - TikTok

Pharrell noted that Timberlake's ability to handle the R&B-infused track was proof he could "sing every part," from smooth soul highs to raspy lows.