Three-time GRAMMY winner Ne-Yo recently participated in an exclusive GRAMMY.com interview to discuss the unique approach he took on his sixth studio album, Non-Fiction, how he involved his fans in the album's creative process and his ultimate goal as an artist, among other topics.

"In order to be a true artist you have to be unafraid to venture out and try new things and expand and grow," said Ne-Yo. "[You] just pray that your fan base is open-minded enough to grow with you."

Born Shaffer Smith in Camden, Ark., Ne-Yo released his debut album, In My Own Words, in 2006. His sophomore album, Because Of You, earned him his first career GRAMMY for Best Contemporary R&B Album. Both albums peaked at No. 1 on the Billboard 200. Released in 2008, his third album, Year Of The Gentleman, spawned two Top 10 hits, "Closer" and "Miss Independent." The latter song won GRAMMYs for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance and Best R&B Song. Ne-Yo followed with 2010's Libra Scale and 2012's R.E.D.

Released Jan. 27, Non-Fiction became Ne-Yo's sixth consecutive album to debut in the Top 10, peaking at No. 5 on the Billboard 200. Taking a new creative approach, Ne-Yo invited his fans to submit their personal stories and experiences, which he molded into songs such as "Religious." The album has spawned the singles "Money Can't Buy," featuring Jeezy, "She Knows" featuring Juicy J and "Time Of Our Lives" featuring Pitbull, which is currently No. 10 on the Billboard Hot 100. 

Ne-Yo was among the performers on "Stevie Wonder: Songs In The Key Of Life — A GRAMMY Salute," which aired Feb. 16 on CBS. The GRAMMY winner's upcoming tour itinerary includes select dates in March and a performance at the 2015 BET Experience in Los Angeles June 25–28.