Justin Timberlake Directs 2017 iHeartRadio Music Speech To Prejudiced Youth

Justin Timberlake proved himself to be more than just a popular musician who cranks out chart-topping hits. At the 2017 iHeartRadio Music Awards, he made an impassioned speech directed to young people who are subjected to prejudice and hate.

The 36-year-old hitmaker won the Song of the Year for his single "Can't Stop the Feeling!" at the 2017 iHeartRadio Music Awards. He then made his acceptance speech on stage, but it was no ordinary address of gratitude. Instead, Justin Timberlake directed his words towards youth who experience prejudice just because they are different from the rest.

The Washington Post reported that the "Can't Stop the Feeling!" singer wanted his song to speak of inclusivity and togetherness. He said that those who are experiencing discrimination are only targeted because their perpetrators are afraid of them and of their importance. Justin Timberlake also added that victimized people's difference signifies the difference they make. And at the end of his 2017 iHeartRadio Music Awards speech, he told off people who undermine others due to their differences.

Justin Timberlake's address at the 2017 iHeartRadio Music Awards was met with cheers and applause. Last year, he also used the show to voice out his concerns regarding a certain politician's plan to build a wall between the United States and a neighboring country. He did not drop names in his speech, but it was clear to the attendees that he was referring to then Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump. He also compared Trump to Taylor Swift, who he said was inviting people to join her squad while knocking down walls.

However, Justin Timberlake did not just talk about discrimination while on the podium at the 2017 iHeartRadio Music Awards. Rolling Stone reported that he also praised his Song of the Year rivals. In fact, he revealed that he may have sang along to The Chainsmokers' nominated song, "Closer."

Though Justin Timberlake trumped over The Chainsmokers for Song of the Year, the duo still took home five awards. However, it was Drake who got the most number of wins that night the 2017 iHeartRadio Music Awards.