“Crazy” and “Angel” are relatively benign love songs. Aware that no one’s perfect, “Make It Work” prescribes a healthy romantic give and take. Trust is essential to love on “Leaving Tonight,” however …
When a woman’s accusations of infidelity threaten a romance, all Ne-Yo can seem to do is suggest make-up sex. The self-proclaimed lothario brags that his celebrity is an aphrodesiac to women who become “Addicted” to his sexual prowess. He uses provocative language while prodding a partner to tell him precisely what she wants him to do in bed (“Say It”). Set in a club, “Can We Chill” glorifies alcohol and casual hookups. Graphic play-by-play describes rough “Sex With My Ex.” “Ain’t Thinking About You” includes profanity, liquor and a guy calling a woman a “ho.” The artist admits to having a drug-like addiction to a woman’s body on “Because of You.” Elsewhere, an out-of-wedlock pregnancy is no big deal (“Do You”) and a promiscuous barfly accepts drinks from a slew of men (“Go On Girl”).
Shaffer C. Smith’s soulful, melodic R&B deserves far better lyrics. Out to convince us how suave he is, the 23-year-old has his identity totally wrapped up in pleasuring women and carving new notches in his belt.
After serving as an associate editor at NavPress’ Discipleship Journal and consulting editor for Current Thoughts and Trends, Adam now oversees the editing and publishing of Plugged In’s reviews as the site’s director. He and his wife, Jennifer, have three children. In their free time, the Holzes enjoy playing games, a variety of musical instruments, swimming and … watching movies.
