The 2013 Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix is set to end on a high note with a show-stopping performance by Grammy award-winning rhythm and blues sensation Ne-Yo, writes Mai Al Khatib.
The songwriter, composer and producer will be dancing and singing his way into the hearts of F1 fans on April 21 after the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix starting at 6pm.
Shaffer Chimere Smith, 33, better known by his stage name Ne-Yo, said: “Performing at the Grand Prix concert will be just as exciting as the race itself as I’m very excited about bringing my show to Bahrain for the first time.”
The platinum recording artist has already got fans racing for tickets and the chance to see him perform at the Bahrain International Circuit in Sakhir.
Marwa Ul Haq, 23, from Jasra, a student at the Royal University for Women, said: “I have been a Ne-Yo fan since his hit single So Sick came out in 2006. I love everything about him … what is there not to love?
“His dancing is like heaven, his voice is like honey and his words are perfect. He is the ultimate man. You have so many singers these days that have terrible lyrics but Ne-Yo’s words are sincere and you can tell he cares about women. They are very honest and they make you fall in love with him.
“It’s also very personal to me. I was going through a tough time in my life and one of his songs really helped me through it. I’d love to go to his concert. It seems so unreal that he is coming in the first place.”
The hit-maker is aware that his songs sometimes have a powerful effect on his fans and revealed that he had once received a ‘thank you’ from a desperate soul. He said: “The best thing I’ve ever received from a fan was a thank you for giving him reason to not commit suicide.’’
The father-of-two has collaborated with numerous recording stars including the late Michael Jackson. He has helped pen smash hits for the likes of Rihanna, pictured below on stage with the star, Beyonce, Mario, Celine Dion, Mary J Blige, Usher, Kanye West, Lionel Richie and many more.
All three of Ne-Yo’s previous albums In My Own Words, Because of You and Year of the Gentleman have gone platinum. He also produced a number of top 10 hits including Sexy Love, Because of You, Mad and Closer.
Hollywood has also embraced him, both in front of and behind the camera. He’s written music for films such as The Princess and the Frog, Precious, Push, and I Can Do Bad All by Myself.
Meanwhile, he’s appeared in a handful of films, including Stomp the Yard, Save the Last Dance 2, Red Tails and Battle: Los Angeles.
Ne-Yo played the role of a mentor on The Voice US TV series and performed on stage.
Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa, chief executive officer of the BIC, said: “We are absolutely delighted to welcome one of the most prolific hit-makers in the business to the kingdom for this year’s Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix.
“The return of Formula One means a true festival of entertainment and the excitement is already there everywhere you go.
“Every year since it was introduced as part of the weekend, the concert is one of the first things people ask us about so I’m delighted to be able to announce such a massive global name.”
The concert will be free to attend for all race day ticket holders.
