Renowned American R&B singer and songwriter Ne-Yo, born Shaffer Chimere Smith, has candidly shared his perspective on monogamy, revealing that it doesn’t align with his life or values. During an appearance on the YouTube show Lemon Drop with Karleen Roy, the 45-year-old artist expressed his personal realization and decision to embrace honesty in his relationships.
I’ve realized that I’ve not been living my truth for a long time
Ne-Yo admitted, adding,
I’m living it now, and you can tell—my skin is glowing.
The Miss Independent hitmaker clarified that while he respects marriage and monogamy for those who find fulfillment in it, it simply isn’t for him.
Society tells you that you’re supposed to be with one person…but monogamy is for you. It’s not for me
he said.
Ne-Yo described his journey toward self-acceptance as freeing, noting how much time he spent trying to fit into societal expectations:
I spent so much time lying and pretending to be someone I wasn’t for the sake of somebody else. It was complete and utter time wasted when I could have just been exactly who I am.
Now, the R&B star says he refuses to compromise his authenticity, embracing a reality where he no longer feels the need to lie to satisfy others:
I’ll be damned if I ever go back to that person who needed to lie for the appeasement of somebody else.
Ne-Yo’s revelations have sparked varied reactions online, with fans and critics engaging in discussions about relationships, societal norms, and personal freedom.


