South African R&B fans are in for a nostalgic treat this October as three-time Grammy Award winner Ne-Yo returns for two highly anticipated shows in Cape Town and Pretoria.
The singer-songwriter behind some of the biggest hits of the 2000s will perform at the Grand Arena, GrandWest in Cape Town on Saturday, 17 October, before heading to the SunBet Arena in Pretoria on Sunday, 18 October as part of his latest international tour.
The announcement marks Ne-Yo’s first visit to South Africa in years and comes as the multi-hyphenate entertainer prepares to release his country-inspired album, ‘Highway 79′, on 10 July.
With a catalog responsible for more than 23 billion streams worldwide, the “So Sick” hitmaker has amassed a loyal South African following over the years. But while fans are thrilled by the news, many may find the ticket prices a little harder to swallow, with seats landing firmly in premium territory.
Still, for fans who grew up on the soundtrack of mid-2000s R&B, the opportunity to hear classics like “Sexy Love,” “Closer,” “Because of You” and “Miss Independent” live may prove irresistible. NE-Yo first exploded onto the scene in 2005 when “So Sick” topped the Billboard Hot 100 and went on to earn quadruple-platinum certification. Since then, he’s delivered a steady stream of chart-toppers, including “Push Back” with Bebe Rexha and Stefflon Don, while also establishing himself as one of pop music’s most sought-after songwriters.
Behind the scenes, the singer has crafted hits for some of music’s biggest names, including Rihanna’s “Unfaithful,” “Take a Bow” and “Russian Roulette,” as well as Beyoncé’s iconic breakup anthem “Irreplaceable.” His songwriting credits also extend to Jennifer Hudson, Usher, Carrie Underwood, Céline Dion and Mario.
Outside of music, Ne-Yo has built an impressive acting résumé, appearing in projects including Empire, World of Dance, Dance Monsters, BMF, Step Up: High Water, Stomp the Yard and George Lucas’ Red Tails.
His South African return arrives as the singer enters a new chapter creatively. Following the release of recent single “Miss Tundra,” NE-Yo is gearing up to embrace a country sound on Highway 79, proving that two decades into his career, he’s still finding new ways to evolve.
If history is any indication, fans can expect plenty of smooth vocals, slick choreography and hit after hit when he touches down this spring – just don’t forget to check your bank balance first.
Tickets will be available for purchase on Webtickets – www.webtickets.co.za and at PicknPay stores nationwide, priced from 950. Gates will open at 6PM on show days.
