Ne-Yo was born Shaffer Chimere Smith to musician parents. They clearly passed along their gift to their son.
02
Mr. Write
Before breaking out with his 2006 hit debut record “In My Own Words,” Ne-Yo penned songs for other R&B artists like Marques Houston and Mario.
03
He’s Number 1
“In My Own Words” debuted at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 Chart and featured the popular singles “So Sick,” “When You’re Mad” and “Sexy Love.”
04
Stylish Man
Ne-Yo has always had a sophisticated fashion sense, he’s often seen rocking a fedora with a suit and tie on the red carpet.
05
Chart Topper
Ne-Yo’s sophomore album “Because of You” topped the charts again, debuting at number on on the Billboard 200.
06
Working with the King
In 2007, Ne-Yo, Will.i.am and Kanye got together to add modern touches to their idol Michael Jackson’s classic album.
07
Grown and Sexy
In 2008, Ne-Yo’s music got a little more swagger when he dropped “The Year of the Gentleman,” which debuted at number two on the Billboard 200 chart.
08
Cute and Cozy
Ne-Yo stayed cozy in a red sweater with Eve by his side at a Grammy Awards brunch in January 2010.
09
Fashion Forward
In a slate gray vest and his signature fedora, Ne-Yo fit in with stylish ladies Ciara and Toni Braxton at the 52nd Annual Grammy Awards’ “Salute To Icons” event.
10
Man in the Mirror
It looks like Ne-Yo took fashion cues from Michael Jackson when he performed at the Hammersmith Apollo in February in a white tuxedo jacket and one glove.
11
New Dad
On Jun 27, 2010 it was announced that Ne-Yo and his girlfriend Monyetta Shaw are expecting a baby.
12
Balancing Act
Ne-Yo is embarking on a new film-themed project called “Libra Scale.” He’ll be telling fans all about it in a live chat on ESSENCE.com on Tuesday, July 13.