High Quality Content by WIKIPEDIA articles! Shaffer Chimere Smith, Jr. (born October 18, 1979), better known by his stage name Ne-Yo, is an American pop and R B singer-songwriter, record producer, dancer and actor. Beginning his career as a songwriter, Ne-Yo penned the hit "Let Me Love You" for singer Mario. The single`s successful release in the United States prompted an informal meeting between Ne-Yo and Def Jam`s label head, and signing a recording contract.