Grammy Award winning R&B icon, Ne-Yo, has been announced to perform at the MTV Africa Music Awards 2015.

Performing songs from his sixth studio album ‘Non Fiction’ the singer-songwriter expressed his excitement about his first ever performance in Durban, South Africa.

“I can’t wait for you to see what I have in store Durban! I hope you’re ready, because I am!” he said.

Since smashing onto the top spot of the Billboard Hot 200 Chart back in 2006 with his sophomore single “So Sick”, Ne-Yo has spent the last nine years churning out hit after hit, not only as a performer, but as a songwriter for his megastar peers Beyoncé, Rihanna and the late Michael Jackson to name but a few.

Multiple platinum singles, four hit albums and three Grammy Awards later, the hit-maker is ready to share his latest work with the world.

Bruce Gillmer, EVP, Music, Talent Programming and Events, Viacom International Media Networks (VIMN) commented: “We are thrilled to have NE-YO join us in Durban.  He’s an incredible artist who will elevate the MAMA to new highs.”

Commented Alex Okosi, Senior Vice President & Managing Director, Viacom International Media Networks (VIMN) Africa, “We are very excited to welcome Ne-Yo to MAMA 2015 for his first ever appearance in Durban.  As a sensational live performer and truly accomplished R&B star, Ne-Yo’s an all-round class act who will greatly complement the African performers on the show.”

Celebrating the evolution of African musicians by recognising contemporary artistes and trailblazers across a range of music and lifestyle categories, the MTV Africa Music Awards KwaZulu-Natal 2015 will broadcast live across Africa on MTV Base (DStv channel 322), MTV (DStv channel 130) and BET (DStv channel 129) on Saturday July 18, 2015 at 9:00PM.

The show will also be transmitted worldwide on partner stations and content platforms including BET International from 18 July.

In addition, a special MAMA-themed edition of MTV’s acclaimed World Stage franchise will air globally on MTV channels around the world on August 27, 2015.