Shelia Goss: You’re an accomplished songwriter. When did you decide to go from behind the scenes to in front of the microphone?
Ne-Yo: Singing has been a part of me forever. Everybody in my family does music…I’ve always been singing…It was a natural transition.

Shelia: What challenges, if any, did you face putting the album together?
Ne-Yo: In songwriting, it’s natural to make music for yourself. The hardest thing was finding balance between making music [for myself] and something the consumer can enjoy.

Shelia: How would you categorize your music?
Ne-Yo: I wouldn’t categorize it. It’s quality R & B music. I tried to make good music and the hottest R & B album.

Shelia: What makes your album stand out from some of the rest?
Ne-Yo: A lot of R & B out today is kind of bland. Nothing against hip-hop, but some of R & B is taking away the melody of what R & B is by not singing but rapping. I’m trying to go back when people were actually singing…with a melody…it’s more musical.

Shelia: Who are some of your favorite singers?
Ne-Yo: Brian Mcknight, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Prince, Shirley Murdock, Anita Baker, Lionel Richie, Wanya Morris (Boyz II Men), I could go on and on. I was in a group before going solo. We were going to be a younger Boyz II Men.

Shelia: How has your life changed since your success?
Ne-Yo: A huge difference between songwriting and being a singer. A songwriter can have a normal life. You’re an ordinary person. But as an artist, somethings can’t be ignored. You have to make sure you look like a million bucks. There’s a certain image you have to maintain. It was a difficult transition, but I’m actually learning to love the spotlight.

Shelia: What advice would you give those interested in breaking into songwriting?
Ne-Yo: The key to a good song is to find a way to say something in a different way.
Find something related to the people you’re trying to reach. Find your own niche.
It’s difficult. I recommend honing your skills and be the best you can be until your opportunity comes along. When opportunity comes, make sure you’re on top of your game.

Shelia: Is there anything else you would like to share with your fans?
Ne-Yo: My website is under construction, but you can go to www.defjam.com and choose my name under the artist menu. My email address is neyo@tmail.com. Vote for the video on 106 & Park.

Ne-Yo's In My Own Words will be IN STORES DECEMBER 2005.