I first heard Ne-Yo on the radio sometime in 2005 when he released his first single, So Sick. I thought it was incredibly creative and unlike any other soul and R&B artist I had heard before. His first album, In My Own Words, delivered tracks that sent feel good feelings through crazy written lyrics mixed with his talented voice. When the single Sexy Love came out, I knew he would be a star. His ability to place words into a tune that emits true sensations of love, style, and confidence is amazing.
I saw Ne-Yo at a show in Hollywood in February of 2007 when he was about to release his second album, Because of You. During the show, he performed a melody of a variety of songs performed by other artists, but written by him. I was definitely surprised! I heard songs like Unfaithful (Rihanna), Let Me Love You (Mario), and Irreplaceable (Beyonce). It's amazing to see just how much more of a musician this young man is. Not only does he have the ability to sing his heart out - he can write his own songs too, and share his great works with other artists.
At this moment, I don't even think Ne-Yo has reached his prime. His third album, Year of the Gentleman, releases later this summer - and I can't wait to finally listen to it.