Track Listing 1. Because Of You (Radio Edit)
| Details | | Playing Time: | 3 min. | | Distributor: | n/a | | Recording Type: | Studio | | SPAR Code: | n/a |
Album Notes Ne-Yo's sophomore release on Def Jam follows in the musical footsteps of his hugely successful debut, IN MY OWN WORDS. Like that album, BECAUSE OF YOU is a tight, contemporary R&B effort, mixing elements of classic soul, 1980s New Jack, and hip-hop-flavored urban pop fare. Ne-Yo's sensitive, expressive, high-tenor croon is featured throughout, but it's the artist's songwriting that takes center stage. The title-track lead single, a smooth, mid-tempo jam that finds Ne-Yo in prime loverman mode, is a prime example of the artist's skill. "Crazy," featuring a guest spot from Jay-Z, is another stand-out track, showcasing Ne-Yo's romantic yet always groove-oriented style. Ne-Yo employed a cadre of top producers for the album, including Stargate and Nefew (who worked on the first album), Shay Taylor, and the Heavyweights, among others. The result is a album that bristles with fresh, crisp production, but still comes across as beautifully unified, thanks primarily to Ne-Yo's sharp songwriting, powerful hooks, and appealing voice.
Editorial Reviews [T]he album is an unmistakable attempt to channel Jackson's early Quincy Jones-helmed LPs -- and the effort often pays off beautifully. -- Grade: B+ Entertainment Weekly
3.5 stars out of 5 -- ['Leaving Tonight' is] the best boy-girl breakup duet since Sparkle and R. Kelly's 'Be Careful'... Rolling Stone
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