Ne-Yo Leaves ICM for APA (Exclusive)

Singer-songwriter Ne-Yo has signed with APA for representation in all areas worldwide.

The three-time Grammy winner was previously represented by ICM — which was just acquired, in a deal valued at $750 million, by CAA — and the move comes ahead of the artist’s eighth studio album, Self Explanatory, being released July 15.

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Ne-Yo, whose real name is Shaffer Chimere Smith, burst onto the R&B scene in the mid-aughts with his 2005 single, “So Sick,” which hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and was certified quadruple platinum. Since then, he has racked up a collection of hits, including “Sexy Love,” “Closer,” “Because of You,” “Miss Independent” and “Push Back” featuring Bebe Rexha and Stefflon Don.

Ne-Yo has also proven to be a prolific songwriter, penning hits for artists such as Jennifer Hudson, Rihanna, Beyoncé, Usher, Carrie Underwood and Celine Dion, among many others.

Outside of his work as a recording artist, Ne-Yo has developed a strong presence in film and television, having been a regular judge alongside Jennifer Lopez on the NBC competition series World of Dance, and as an actor in movies such as Battle: Los Angeles, Stomp the Yard, George Lucas-produced Red Tails and shows such as Empire and Step Up: High Water. The latter is going into its third season, airing on Starz.

Ne-Yo is APA’s latest high-profile, multihyphenate signing, joining artists such as Mary J. Blige, 50 Cent and 2 Chainz who desire a holistic approach that encompasses everything from brands to producing. He continues to be managed by Compound Entertainment.

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