Ne-Yo Signs Artist During Gig

Ne-Yo surprised new artist Sonna Rele by signing her to Motown Records Thursday night.

The "Closer" star invited the London-born singer - whom he discovered on Facebook - on stage with him at Under the Bridge venue in Chelsea where he offered her to opportunity to join the iconic label, which has been home to Stevie Wonder, Diana Ross and the Temptations.

Speaking about Ne-Yo - who is Vice President of A& R at Motown - Sonna exclusively told BANG Showbiz, "I have a lot of respect for him, he's an amazing artist, an amazing songwriter. I feel like I've got a really good team around me where I can kind of grow as a songwriter and an artist. I'm smiling from ear-to-ear right now. I'm really, really excited."

The 25- year old has already worked with Fugees star Wyclef Jean and music producer Dallas Austin, who between them have worked with likes of Michael Jackson, Madonna, TLC, Boys II Men and Gwen Stefani.

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Listen to Ne-Yo’s new album, R.E.D., right here!

Ne-Yo's long-awaited new album, R.E.D., has been released today, and we've embedded it above for your listening pleasure. R.E.D., meaning Realizing Every Dream, is Ne-Yp's fifth album, and his first on Motown Records, and many are saying it's his best work to date. Give it a listen, and let us know what you think in the comments.

Gallery: Listen to Ne-Yo’s new album, R.E.D., right here!