A promotional image for Justin Timberlake’s new ‘The 20/20 Experience’ album.

It appears that some of that copycat gene was passed on to Justin Timberlake while he was doing the “Single Ladies” dance with Beyonce on Saturday Night Live. Indeed, in an open letter to his fans, in which he announced his album title, the singer reveals that he has been – you guessed it – inspired by others instead of bringing something new to the table.

Speaking about his upcoming The 20/20 Experience album, Timberlake noted, “It is full of inspiration that I grew up listening to and some newfound muses that I’ve discovered along the way.” In other words, those of you who picked up the clear Robin Thicke influence on Timberlake’s new song, “Suit & Tie”, were right on the money. It was only so long that Timberlake could rehash old Michael Jackson, Marvin Gaye and Prince records before it got boring, right?

The 20/20 Experience will be released later this year. Read Timberlake’s open letter to his fans below to get an idea of where he is heading with this new record:

An Open Letter to you (the fans):

I hope this gets to you the right way. It’s the only way I know to do it. Some people may criticize me for the last 3 days. But it was fun, right?? Right?!?! Besides, I’d rather speak directly to all of you. And, who can knock me for having a little bit of fun with it?

Well… No more teasing. Although, it was A LOT of fun. (Did I mention that I’m having fun with this?? Ha!)

*Makes a serious face*

So, here goes:

This year is an exciting one for me. As you probably have heard through the “grapevine,” I’m gearing up for a big 2013.

Back in June of last year, I quietly started working on what is now, my next journey with that thing I love called MUSIC.

The inspiration for this really came out of the blue and to be honest, I didn’t expect anything out of it. I just went into the studio and started playing around with some sounds and songs. It was probably the best time I’ve had in my career… Just creating with no rules and/or end goal in mind and really enjoying the process.

What I came up with is something I couldn’t be more excited about! It is full of inspiration that I grew up listening to and some newfound muses that I’ve discovered along the way.

I’m calling it “The 20/20 Experience,” and it’s coming out this year.

I hope you enjoy listening to it as much as I enjoyed making it.

That’s all I’m giving you for now… I know, I know! Again, with the teasing!!!

Get ready. This is going to be fun (well, at least it is for me).

Thoughts?