I’m not really a fan of Ne-Yo, but he is artist of the week for one reason: His new single “Closer” is EVERYWHERE. I try to avoid it, but it’s like my ears are made of pollen and “Closer” is a little annoying bee buzzing around trying to gather food. Of course, new songs like these lose their heat after a few weeks so let’s get on with this Ne-Yo feature before everyone starts saying, “What are you listening to that old song for? That song’s old. You’re old.”
Born Shaffer Chimere Smith, the 28-year-old singer/song-writer/actor is set to release his third album “Year of the Gentlemen” sometime this year, with “Closer” being the first single off the album.
Unlike songs from his previous albums, which would mix lyrics of relationships/sex with an R&B background, “Closer” mixes lyrics of relationships/sex with a dance club-type beat. Here is a part of the song: “I just can’t stop(x5)/Come closer(x7)/I just can’t stop noooooo(x4).” At least I think it’s about sex. A nice change of pace, but the song is normal Ne-Yo.
Ne-Yo has writing credits as early as 1991, writing for various artists ranging from Rihanna to Snoop Dogg to Celine Dion. Since making his debut as a singer in 2006 with his album “In My Own Words,” Ne-Yo’s songs have received numerous radio play. Turn on your radio if you want to try Ne-Yo out, because he is probably on right now.