Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that there is a lot of sexual innuendo, of the "let's get naked and get it on" variety.
Families listening together can talk about the reasons why a successful young songwriter might want to shift gears and start performing.
Common Sense Review
Reviewed By: Kathi Kamen Goldmark
Ne-Yo who? Just the guy who wrote Mario's mega hit, "Let Me Love You," and many other chart-toppers (by Mary J. Blige, B2K, Faith Evans, and others) -- all before his 22nd birthday. Tender, romantic, and sexy, the songs on IN MY OWN WORDS are well-crafted gems worthy of a veteran songwriter.
Ne-Yo, AKA Shaffer Smith, pays loving tribute to seventies and eighties soul music with an original, modern twist. The language is a little stronger, the flirty longing more explicitly sexual, but more than anything In My Own Words evokes romantic late-night makeout records and soul classics of the last millennium.
Ne-Yo uses his versatile voice effectively on his own songs, and seems comfortable stepping up into the spotlight after being the "other guy" -- the writer of other people's hits –- over instrumental tracks that bring out the best in both the songs and his performances. Tastefully and lovingly produced, the songs shine.
Despite Ne-Yo's impressive music industry connections, there are very few celebrity cameos on this album, and that ends up being kind of nice...we really get to hear this young performer sing his own creations in his own strong and confident voice, impressive and promising.
Rate It!
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Sexual ContentVery sexy, though Ne-Yo carefully avoids the most explicit words. |
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LanguageA few strong words, but more restrained than many other albums. |
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Social BehaviorSome lyrics could be considered sexist -- others adoring of women. Your mileage will vary. |
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