UPDATE: THIS NE-YO THING JUST GOT REAL!
Ne-Yo is attempting to re-define the Music Video as Mini-Movie ala Michael, and more precisely, Janet Jackson. Janet made Rhythm Nation 1814, a solid, singular narrative, using multiple videos off her amazing 2nd A&M records release. The narrative was about drugs, kids, overcoming adversity and hope. Now almost 22 years later, Ne-Yo is attempting something similar with his first two releases off Libra Scale, "Beautiful Monster" and "Champagne Life". It wasn't until I saw the FULL LENGTH version of these videos (that also star Columbus Short) that I really saw the creativity and Ne-Yo's determination to give his fans more than just another Ne-Yo experience.
According to Ne-Yo's label, Def Jam, the story centers on the misadventures of 'The Gentlemen,' the trio of Jerome (played by Ne-Yo), Clyde and Leroy. After encountering a mysterious figure, the three are granted everything they could ever want – money, fame, cars, girls...and superpowers; the only catch being that they cannot fall in love. For Clyde and Leroy, the pre-condition is easy. Not so for Jerome (Ne-Yo), who falls for Pretty Sinclair, a vivacious no-nonsense stunner. He captures her heart and they begin a relationship – which is when she contracts a strain of his super-powers and suffers an adverse reaction that effectively drives her crazy.
Please enjoy, in their entirety, "Beautiful Monster", followed by the continuation, "Champagne Life".
Beautiful Monster
Champagne Life
