It was this sort of industry credentials that have landed the 32-year-old star with a move to Motown, which is notable not because of the path it puts him on musically, but rather for taking on the executive position of senior VP of A&R.
“I’m honored that I’ve been given such a prestigious title and trusted with such responsibility; terrified because I know that playing this role in the fashion of one of my career role models, Mr. Smokey Robinson — these are big shoes to fill,” said Ne-Yo. “But trust, I can handle it.”
Through this position, Ne-Yo will have a hands-on approach to other artists on the label and will be expected to act as both a producer and mentor on these projects. Speaking of the move, Universal Republic and Island Def Jam Motown chairman/CEO Barry Weiss said:
“His track record of success at Def Jam will always be a benchmark. But this move to Motown will provide new and inspiring challenges for Ne-Yo as both an artist and a key member of the new senior management team that is taking form at the label in 2012.”
Ne-Yo is expected to release his fifth studio album this summer, which will be his first on Motown.
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