R&B powerhouse Ne-Yo has done it all – songwriting, producing, dancing, acting – and he’s done it exceptionally well. The industry has certainly taken notice. He’s racked up awards and nominations from the Grammy Awards, the American Music Awards, the BET Awards, and many more. He also excels on stage: ticket holders appreciate the dedication and passion he brings to his tours, as well as his impeccable live voice and interaction with the crowd. 2013 saw Ne-Yo working with Celine Dion on the track "Incredible" for her album Loved Me Back to Life. The prolific collaborator has also worked with Rihanna, Faith Evans, Mary J. Blige, Musiq, Beyoncé, Mariah Carey, and Carrie Underwood, among others.
Born Shaffer Chimere Smith in Camden, Arkansas to musician parents, Ne-Yo released his debut studio album In My Own Words in 2006, premiering at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and selling over two million copies worldwide on the strength of its singles “So Sick,” “Stay,” and “When You’re Mad.” His sophomore album, 2007’s Because of You, also debuted at No. 1 and went platinum, with its title track reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100. In 2008, he released his third album, Year of the Gentleman, with the top 10 hit singles “Closer,” “Mad,” and “Miss Independent,” and again hit No. 2 on the album chart. The album also earned six Grammy nominations including Album of the Year. His fourth album, 2010’s critically acclaimed Libra Scale, debuted at No. 9 on the US Billboard 200. In 2011, his collaboration on Pitbull’s track “Give Me Everything” became a No. 1 single, and the following year he moved to Motown Records and put out his fifth studio album R.E.D. in September 2012.
