Ne-Yo returns this September with his fourth album Libra Scale. Inspired by his newfound passion for acting, the project has a storybook theme and something for his pop (Beautiful Monster”) and R&B (Champagne Life”) fans. The “sci-fi geek” shares the record’s concept, producers, new track titles, and introduces us to his alter-ego Jerome.
In addition to his own successful career, Ne-Yo has been penning hits for his good friend Rihanna’s top-secret new album. He admits that her last effort Rated R was “a little dark,” but believes she’s headed in a more upbeat direction with her next CD. In Part 1 of Rap-Up TV’s exclusive interview, the gentleman lets us in on RiRi’s silly side, his thoughts on her rise to superstardom, his favorite song that they collaborated on, and what they tease each other about.