Ne-Yo Says Nashville Has ‘Embraced’ Him in His Country Music Era and Shares Dolly Parton Inspiration

**Ne-Yo Opens Up About Embracing Nashville’s Country Music Scene**

Ne-Yo, the acclaimed R&B artist, has shared his experiences of stepping into the country music realm during a recent episode of Rolling Stone’s Nashville Now podcast. The 46-year-old, whose real name is Shaffer Smith, discussed how Nashville has warmly welcomed him as he explores a new musical direction, incorporating elements of country into his repertoire.

Before making his way to the Music City, Ne-Yo admitted he was apprehensive due to warnings from fellow musicians. “I heard all these negative things,” he said. “People told me Nashville wasn’t open to anything outside of their norm, that it was cliquey, and that you had to know the right people to get anywhere.” Such sentiments led him to expect a less than hospitable environment upon his arrival.

However, Ne-Yo’s experience in Nashville has been remarkably different. He expressed appreciation for the community’s receptiveness, stating, “Every single person I’ve worked with out here has embraced what I’m trying to do with open arms.” This support has encouraged him as he fuses his R&B roots with the storytelling traditions found in country music. “Everybody’s interested and intrigued about how I’m going to take what I do and what country music is,” he added.

The artist’s connection to country music is not recent; he had previously collaborated with notable country singer Tim McGraw on the 2012 hit “She Is.” Last year marked his first attendance at the Country Music Association (CMA) Awards, an event he called an “absolute success” in a reflective Instagram post. Ne-Yo’s developing relationship with the genre signifies a significant evolution in his music career.

Reflecting on the artists that have inspired him, Ne-Yo cited legends such as Dolly Parton, Garth Brooks, and Reba McEntire for their profound storytelling abilities. He particularly pointed out Parton’s iconic song “Jolene,” which encapsulates raw human emotions. “It’s not about the stroke of the ego, which is kind of what a lot of music is today,” he noted. “She’s literally begging another woman not to steal her man. That’s such a human song.”

His admiration for the authenticity found in country music extends to its lyricism, which he believes has become too polished and detached in contemporary music. Ne-Yo contended that today’s artists often shy away from vulnerable themes. “Nobody’s cool enough to admit ever being in that place,” he remarked, highlighting a cultural shift away from expressing genuine feelings in songwriting.

During an interview with The Tennessean, he clarified his position within the genre, stating, “I’m not a country artist. Given that this is my first official attempt at trying to naturally transition into creating something in the country lane, it’s disrespectful to call myself a country artist.” Instead, he emphasised that his upcoming music would be “country-inspired,” reflecting his journey rather than fitting into a predefined label.

Ne-Yo’s music career began with the release of his first album, *In My Own Words*, in 2006. He followed this with critically acclaimed works, including 2007’s *Because of You*, which earned him a Grammy Award for Best Contemporary R&B Album, and the 2008 album *Year of the Gentleman*. Throughout his career, Ne-Yo has collaborated with numerous top artists, including Beyoncé, Keri Hilson, and Rihanna, solidifying his status in the music industry.

Beyond his musical pursuits, Ne-Yo has also made headlines for his personal life, notably announcing last year that he was in a polyamorous relationship with four women. This revelation has added another layer of intrigue to his public persona, showcasing his willingness to discuss unconventional lifestyle choices.

As he continues to blend genres and navigate the Nashville music scene, Ne-Yo’s openness and enthusiasm signal exciting developments in his artistic journey. His commitment to exploring the depths of country music while maintaining his unique identity promises a fresh perspective for fans of both R&B and country. As he continues this adventure, it remains clear that the bonds he is forging in Nashville may lead to a fruitful and transformative phase of his career.