Renowned R&B artist Shaffer Chimere Smith, popularly known as Ne-Yo, recently opened up about his unconventional love life, having embraced a polygamous lifestyle. On March 10, 2025, the musician took to Instagram to introduce his four romantic partners, or as he affectionately refers to them, his “pyramid.” In his post, Ne-Yo stated:
The accompanying video showcased his partners: Cristina (a.k.a. PB or Pretty Baby), Arielle (a.k.a. TF or Twin Flame), Moneii (a.k.a. PF or Phoenix Feather), and Bri (a.k.a. SLS or S*xy Lil’ Somethin’). He concluded the post with a call to his followers, urging them to either express something positive about his lifestyle or “move on.”
As news of his lifestyle spread like wildfire, social media was abuzz with user reactions. Referencing Ne-Yo’s iconic 2008 hit “Miss Independent,” one follower quipped:
“So Miss Codependents?”
The reactions predominantly leaned toward criticism, with many questioning Ne-Yo’s choices. Another commenter noted:
“Since the world is so intrigued— we weren’t,”
“More like pyramid scheme,”
“I can’t wait for one of them to write a tell-all in 10 years,”
Conversely, some urged Ne-Yo to redirect his focus back to his music career:
“Just stick to music bro,”
“I love Ne-Yo’s music down, I want him to stop making this his brand,”
Understanding Ne-Yo’s Perspective on Love and Partnerships
In a forthcoming interview with Lemon Drop’s Karleen Roy last November, Ne-Yo candidly expressed that traditional monogamy did not resonate with him. Since embracing his polyamorous relationship, he emphasized the importance of partnership and community, stating that the three women—Cristina, Moneii, and Arielle—consider each other as “wives”and even co-manage a joint Instagram account under the username @the.mrs.lefts, showcasing their unique family dynamic.
During a recent appearance on Real 92.3 LA, Ne-Yo elaborated on how his lifestyle enables him to balance the demands of his career while caring for his children. He asserted:
“If you want your (Roblox) and your V-bucks and them Jordans, daddy gotta go to work. And while daddy’s at work, this one’s gonna cook dinner, this one is gonna make breakfast, and this one’s gonna get you ready for school.”
Stressing on the essence of partnership, Ne-Yo emphasized that his relationships are grounded in mutual respect and collaboration rather than possessiveness. “If the only reason you’re doing it is for the s*xual part, you’re bound to fail. This is a team. We are partners in this situation,”he elaborated, addressing the common misconceptions surrounding polygamous relationships.
Previously, Ne-Yo was married to Crystal Renay Smith from 2016 to 2023 and is a father of three with her. He also has two children with his former partner, Monyetta Shaw-Carter. Last month, while appearing on the Rickey Smiley Morning Show, he reiterated that his relationship dynamics are based on consent and authenticity, dismissing allegations of manipulation.
Since making this revelation, Ne-Yo has not provided further updates regarding his polyamorous lifestyle.