In a somewhat surprising move, R&B star Ne-Yo has left Def Jam – the label he’s called home since bursting onto the scene in 2006.

Full story after the jump…

Most label departures are oft bitter and the bi-product of politics and poor record sales. However, neither have defined the 32 year old’s split from the industry juggernaut.

For, not only is he remaining under the same corporate umbrella (Universal Music), the singer has taken up a lucrative position which’ll ensure his presence both on the front and back-end of the industry. He has signed with Motown Records.

By no means a “by the numbers” deal, the blockbuster move will see him serve as Senior VP of A&R at the newly re-structured label; a role which will see him produce and mentor the label’s artists and also discover and sign new talent.

What’s more, he’ll be  bringing over his Compound Entertainment imprint – which will be now be distributed by Motown.

Speaking of the change, the hitmaker said:

“I’m honored that I¹ve been given such a prestigious title and trusted with such responsibility; terrified because I know that playing this role in the fashion of one of my career role models, Mr. Smokey Robinson — these are big shoes to fill. But trust, I can handle it.”

With Universal Music CEO Barry Weiss adding:

“His track record of success at Def Jam will always be a benchmark. But this move to Motown will provide new and inspiring challenges for Ne-Yo as both an artist and a key member of the new senior management team that is taking form at the label in 2012.”

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Ne-Yo’s first release under the new partnership will be his fifth studio album, which he EXCLUSIVELY revealed to That Grape Juice is called ‘The Cracks In Mr. Perfect’. The LP is due this summer.

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