Year 3 of a "Hiatus": The Joyride

The year in which the artist hits a noticeable stride of unfuckwittableness, despite being relative distance of their last release. Kinship with other artists sustains momentum and keeps public visibility at a peak.

Justin Timberlake's 2009

Mar. 13 — Ciara features Timberlake on “Love Sex Magic” from her album, Fantasy Ride.

May 9 — Timberlake is featured on The Lonely Island’s “Motherlover.”

Aug. 18 — Timberlake co-stars in a Sony commercial with Peyton Manning.

Aug. 25 — Timberlake anchors ads for the launch of Givenchy's fragrance, Play.

Nov. 9 — Leona Lewis releases “Don’t Let Me Down," featuring Timberlake.

Nov. 20 — Rihanna releases Rated R. Bonus track “Hole in My Head” features Timberlake.

Dec. 1 — Timberlake is featured on Timbaland single “Carry Out” off Shock Value II.

Dec. 16 — Timberlake is named Audi's new “brand ambassador,” stars in an online mini-series dedicated to the automobile brand.

Dr. Dre's 1995

Mar. 7 — Dr. Dre releases "Keep Their Heads Ringin'" for the soundtrack to the film Friday.

Sept. 7 — Dr. Dre wins an MTV Video Music Award for Best Rap Video for "Keep Their Heads Ringin.'" 

Nov. 7 — Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg contribute "187um" to Million Man March compilation, One Million Strong.

Dec. 28 — Dr. Dre is featured on 2Pac's "California Love." The song goes to peak at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.