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Ne-Yo
Rod Laver Arena Melbourne
For the first time in his illustrious career American R&B superstar Ne-Yo hit Australian shores for his sold out Champagne and Roses Tour.
The excited crowd has been warmed up by New Orleans native Lloyd and local musician BEHANI who has recently burst onto the scene, the anticipation is palatable.
Before kicking things off though the crowd is whipped up into a frenzy with a dance off in the seats. Lights shining on girls competing to dance on stage with Ne- Yo turn the arena into a light filled chaotic scene.
Opening with the classic hit “ Closer” Ne-Yo looks sharp in a red sequin suit flanked by dancers. He is energetic and the choreography is perfection.
The crowd is absolutely on fire, as he powers through what he calls “ Classic Classics”- the songs everyone knows are classics, and the “Future Classics” – songs that the crowd may not know as well, but are destined to be known as “Classic Classics”.
During a brief interlude we are introduced to a medley of some of the songs Ne-Yo has turned into hits for other musicians. Including “ Take a Bow” sung by Rihanna. “ Let me love you” – Mario and the classic hit “ Irreplaceable” sung by Beyonce.
It’s time for the dance off, and three lucky contestants are brought onto the stage to dance with Ne-Yo, each performing a lap dance to the song “ Push Back” . It’s a gorgeous South Sudanese woman that wins the dance off and possibly the potential to be Ne- Yo’s next baby mama.
Ne-Yo’s debut tour wraps up with a cover of Pitbull’s “ Tonight” and the whole stadium is one big dance floor. The smooth dancer has performed a perfect set, entertaining, sexual, and a little bit of cheekiness. He is an exceptional performer and accompanied by dancers the Miss Rights, Ne-Yo has everyone in the room hoping he will return to Australian shores soon.
Words by Amanda Lee Starkey
Images by Paul Clarke
