Grammy-winning R&B artist Ne-Yo shines on “Apology,” the apologetic advance third single from his highly-anticipated seventh studio album, ‘Good Man’ arriving June 8, 2018.

Following a three-year hiatus, Grammy-winning R&B artist Ne-Yo returns with his seventh studio album, Apology. The singer/songwriter’s best work arguably came in 00s, with a run of albums including In My Own Words, Because of You, and Year of the Gentleman.  Nonetheless, he’s had his moments in the 10s.  After releasing singles “Good Man” and “Push Back,” he drops his “Apology.”

The production work on “Apology” blends urban-contemporary, hip-hop, and gospel sensibilities. Notably, there’s thoughtful use of backing vocals and voice synths. The drum programming is slick and at times, “Apology” makes great use of finger snaps.  At 38 years old, Ne-Yo remains clear, compelling, and fresh as a solo artist. Getting to the meat of “Apology,” on

The first verse, he sings about how wrongly he’s treated women in his life: “If my mama knew the things I did, she wouldn’t like it / She taught me better (yeah), I know I knew way better.” On the second verse, he apologizes to various women he’s been with in his life, including the “One that did all that freaky shit.”

Between verses, Ne-Yo serves up the pre-chorus, characterizing himself as a boy pretending to be a man.  He closes out the pre-chorus by saying, “So to the ones I hurt, becoming who I am,” leading into the apologetic chorus, “I’m sorry, I’m sorry… / For every single tear that fell to get me here.” On the bridge, he asserts:

“If I could go back in time, then I would undo the crime

But I can’t, no, I can’t make it right

But at the very least I can go and apologize.”

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, “Apology” is an enjoyable song. Ne-Yo’s heart seems to be in the right place.   Perhaps one can scrutinize just how authentic the apology is, but the message is positive, and shows maturation, particularly towards women.

Ne-Yo • Good Man • Motown • Release: 6.8.18

Photo Credit: Motown