Recent from talks
Nothing was collected or created yet.
Trey Songz
View on Wikipedia
Key Information
Tremaine Aldon Neverson (born November 28, 1984), known professionally as Trey Songz, is an American R&B singer and songwriter. After being discovered by record producer Troy Taylor in 2003, Songz signed to his record label, Songbook Entertainment, in a joint venture with Atlantic Records during that same year. His debut album, I Gotta Make It (2005), entered at number 20 on the Billboard 200, while his second album, Trey Day (2007), peaked at number 11. The latter was supported by the single, "Can't Help but Wait", which peaked at number 14 on the Billboard Hot 100 and nominated for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance at the 51st Annual Grammy Awards. His third album, Ready (2009), peaked at number three on the Billboard 200, spawned the Billboard Hot 100-top ten single, "Say Aah" (featuring Fabolous), and was nominated for Best Contemporary R&B Album at the 52nd Annual Grammy Awards.
Neverson's fourth album, Passion, Pain & Pleasure (2010), peaked at number two on the Billboard 200 and spawned the single, "Bottoms Up" (featuring Nicki Minaj), which peaked at number six on the Billboard Hot 100. Supported by the Grammy Award-nominated single "Heart Attack", his fifth album, Chapter V (2012), became his first to debut atop the Billboard 200. His sixth album, Trigga (2014), became his second to do so, and spawned a commercial re-issue following the success of his 2015 single, "Slow Motion". He has since released the albums Tremaine (2017) and Back Home (2020). Trey Songz has sold over 25 million records worldwide in singles and albums.[3]
Early life
[edit]Tremaine Aldon Neverson was born on November 28, 1984, in Petersburg, Virginia.[4] He is the son of Claude Neverson Jr. and April (Gholson) Tucker, who was 17 when he was born.[5] Raised as a military brat by his mother and stepfather,[6] Neverson did not have aspirations for a musical career as a child due to his shyness, saying "Singing wasn't a reality for me, until other people started noticing I sounded good."[7] He recognized his vocal abilities at the age of 14.[7]
Career
[edit]2003–2006: Early career and I Gotta Make It
[edit]After his stepfather introduces his son to a record producer Troy Taylor, whom Taylor was also attended at the high school, before graduating from Petersburg High School in 2002, Trey Songz moved to New Jersey to begin recording his debut studio album, though recording did not begin until 2003.[4] Also in 2003, Taylor signed Songz to his label, called Songbook Entertainment, which soon led to a joint venture with Atlantic Records.[8] While recording his-then upcoming and untitled debut album in 2004, Songz released multiple mixtapes under the alias Prince of Virginia.[4] There were one of his mixtapes that features an "answer track" to R. Kelly's "Trapped in the Closet", titled "Open the Closet", which granted Songz some regional attention.[9] Songz's debut single, "Gotta Make It" (featuring Twista), released in March 2005, reached at number 87 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number 21 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs. It garnered success in the R&B/urban community, but failed to make a mark in mainstream music. His debut studio album, I Gotta Make It was released on July 26, 2005.[10] Upon its release, the album debuted at number 20 on the Billboard 200, selling 40,000 copies in its first week of sales.[11] After the album had sold 300,000 records in the United States, the album's second and final single, "Gotta Go", has released in July 2005, reaching at number 67 on the Hot 100 and number 11 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart, becoming even more successful than his debut single in the R&B/urban community and in the mainstream community. After promotion for his debut concluded, he was featured on the lead single from Twista's fifth album, The Day After. The single, "Girl Tonite", reached at number 14 on the Hot 100 and number 3 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart, becoming a huge hit.
2006–2008: Trey Day
[edit]In mid-2006, Songz began working on a follow-up album to his debut record with longtime collaborator Troy Taylor and also employed successful Bryan-Michael Cox, Danja, Stargate, and R. Kelly into helping him create the album. Trey aimed for the album to be more mainstream-oriented than his debut album. His-then upcoming and untitled second album would be preceded by the lead single, "Wonder Woman", which was released in February 2007. It reached at number 54 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart, but failed to impact the Hot 100. The album was going to be released on May 8, 2007, but was continually delayed in order for a successful single to precede the album, as the lead single failed to impact charts. However, because of the single's failure, his second album was delayed from May 2007 to October 2007. The album's second single, "Can't Help but Wait", was released as a promotional single not only towards his second album, but to its soundtrack of the film, Step Up 2 the Streets, in August 2007.
His second studio album, titled Trey Day, was released on October 2, 2007. The album reached at number 11 on the Billboard 200,[12] selling 73,000 copies in its first week. It has since sold 400,000 records in the United States, becoming his second album not to be certified by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). After the album release, the single, "Can't Help but Wait", reached at number 14 on the Hot 100, and number 2 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. It became Songz's first Top 20 hit on the Hot 100, and helping the song boost his second album's first-week sales. The single was also nominated for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance at the 50th Grammy Awards. The third single from the album, "Last Time", was released in January 2008, and reached at number 69 on the Hot 100, and number 9 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. The fourth and final single from the album, "Missin' You", was released in May 2008, but failed to chart completely. In mid-2008, Songz was nominated for a BET Award for Best Male R&B Artist, but did not win the award.[13]
2008–2010: Ready
[edit]
In 2008, Trey began working on his-then upcoming and untitled third studio album with Bryan-Michael Cox, Sean Garrett, Stargate, and Taylor, while aiming for a more mature record than his first two full-length albums. The lead single from the album, "I Need a Girl", was released in April 2009 and reached #5 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop songs chart and #59 on the Hot 100, becoming an R&B/urban hit but not a mainstream hit. A promotional single, "Successful", featuring rapper Drake, was released in June 2009 and reached #17 on the Hot 100, becoming Songz's third Top 20 hit. The single also served as the second and final single from Drake's extended play (EP), So Far Gone. Before releasing his third album, Songz released a mixtape, titled Anticipation through his blog in June 2009, in which features some of these songs that would be included on his third album.[14] Trey's other mixtape, called Genesis was released in the summer of 2009. Genesis was a collection of Trey Songz's first recordings to show his fans the dedication that he was making when he was fifteen years old.[15] The second official single from his third album, "LOL Smiley Face" (featuring Soulja Boy and Gucci Mane), was released in August 2009, and reached at number 51 on the Hot 100, and number 12 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. On August 31, 2009, Trey released his third studio album, titled Ready. Upon its release, the album reached at number 3 on the Billboard 200, selling 131,000 copies in its first week.[16] These are his best first-week sales to date, making the album his first record to ever reach atop of the Billboard 200. To date, the album has since sold over 1,000,000 records in the United States, earning a Platinum certification from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) in June 2014, becoming his first Platinum album.
The third single from the album, "I Invented Sex" (featuring Drake), was released in October 2009, and reached at number 42 on the Hot 100, but reached at number one on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart, becoming his first single to top that chart. Like the first two singles from the album, it achieved success in the R&B/urban community, but only some mainstream success. Charted within the Billboard Hot 100, and topped the R&B chart. Songz was also the opening act for Jay-Z on his Jay-Z Fall Tour towards the end of 2009. The fourth single from the album, "Say Aah" (featuring Fabolous), was released in January 2010, and reached at number 9 on the Hot 100, and number 3 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. The single has become Trey's highest-charting single on the Hot 100 and one of his most successful singles on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. He also collaborated with R&B singer Amerie on her song "Pretty Brown", the third single from her fourth album, In Love & War. The fifth and final single from the album, "Neighbors Know My Name", was released in February 2010, and reached at number 43 on the Hot 100 and number 4 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. The sixth single, "Yo Side of the Bed", was going to be released in June 2010, but its release was canceled for unknown reasons. The music video, featuring singer Keri Hilson, was filmed and released, however. The album was nominated for Best Contemporary R&B Album at the 52nd Grammy Awards in 2010, but lost to Beyoncé's I Am... Sasha Fierce. On April 1, 2010, he recorded an episode of MTV Unplugged, which aired on April 26, 2010.[17][18] The documentary-series, Trey Songz: My Moment, which began in June 2010, received a positive reviews and high ratings. The 10-part series, which follows Trey during his time as opening act on the Jay-Z Fall Tour towards the end of 2009, ended in August 2010.
2010–2012: Passion, Pain & Pleasure and Chapter V
[edit]In early 2010, Trey began working on the album with Sean Garrett, Troy Taylor, and Stargate, whom has stated that the album will be his most personal to date and was completed in July 2010. The album's lead single, "Bottoms Up" (featuring Nicki Minaj), was released on July 27, 2010, and reached number 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, becoming his biggest hit to date. The single has since been certified 3× Platinum. "Can't Be Friends" was released as the album's second single in August 2010.[19] Songz embarked on the Passion, Pain & Pleasure Tour on August 6, 2010, with singer Monica. The tour is his first headlining tour to date and consists of shows in venues that seat 3,000 to 5,000 people. Songz also contributed the song "Already Taken" to the Step Up 3D soundtrack, which was released on July 27, 2010. He filmed a video for the song, which was released in July 2010. The leading lady in the video is former girlfriend and professional dancer Helen Gedlu. Songz appeared at the 2010 MTV Video Music Awards on September 12, 2010.[20] Songz's fourth studio album, Passion, Pain & Pleasure, was released on September 14, 2010.[21] Songz also performed at the BET Awards 2011 which was broadcast on June 26, 2011.[22]

On August 18, 2011, it was announced Songz will be working on his fifth studio album, titled Chapter V.[23] In an interview Trey said the album, which would act as the follow-up to Passion, Pain & Pleasure, was nearing completion. He also said, "It's my sixth year in the game so I've been here for a while now. You can expect the best me you've ever heard. I don't have any release dates in mind right now but I'm just making music and enjoying myself in the studio and having fun. I have a few dream collaborations on that album that I want, but they say if you blow out your candle and make a wish you can't tell people what you ask for or it won't come true".[24]
On November 28, 2011, his 27th birthday, Songz released his Inevitable EP to prepare for the release of his album. The EP opened with first week sales of 27,000 landing it at No. 23 on the Billboard 200 and No. 4 on Billboard's Top Hip-Hop R&B Albums chart.[25] As of October 18, 2012, the EP has sold 91,000 copies in the United States. In February 2012, Songz will embark on his Anticipation 2our to promote his mixtape Anticipation 2 and to raise awareness of his new album. In July 2011, he was cast in Texas Chainsaw 3D as Ryan, the male lead role.[26] The film was released on January 4, 2013.

Chapter V was released on August 21, 2012, by Atlantic Records, and on August 17 as a digital download.[27] Trey Songz toured in promotion of the album on his Anticipation 2our, a tour spanning from February 9 to March 11, 2012, in North America.[28] Rapper Big Sean was the tour's supporting act.[28] The album debuted at number one on the US Billboard 200 chart, with first week sales of 135,000 copies. It was Songz' first album to top the chart. Chapter V was also Songz' first album to chart in the United Kingdom, where it peaked at number 10 on the UK Albums Chart.[29] As of October 3, 2012, the album has sold 238,400 copies in the US, according to Nielsen SoundScan.[30] The album's lead single, "Heart Attack", was released as a digital download on March 26, 2012. It charted at number 35 on the Billboard Hot 100,[31] and number 28 on the UK Singles Chart.[29] Its music video was released on May 4 and featured then girlfriend Kelly Rowland playing Songz' love interest.[32] The second single "2 Reasons" was released on June 12. Its video was premiered on June 12 by BET's 106 & Park.[33] "Simply Amazing" was released in the United Kingdom on August 12.[34] It charted at number eight in the UK.[29] Its music video, directed by Justin Francis, was released on July 23.[35] "Never Again" was released as a single in the UK in November.[36] Its music video was released on November 21.[37]
2013–2018: Trigga and Tremaine the Album
[edit]On June 20, 2013, in a radio interview with KS 107.5, Songz confirmed that he had already recorded about eight songs for his sixth studio album. On Christmas Day, Songz released the song titled "Na Na" on The Angel Network.[38] In February 2014, Songz released another track featuring Young Jeezy called "Ordinary"[39] and he was also featured on the remix to Mariah Carey's single, "You're Mine (Eternal)". In March 2014, Songz released the second single of his album called "SmartPhones".[40] On April 1, 2014, 50 Cent released a single featuring Songz, titled "Smoke", from his fifth studio album Animal Ambition. On July 1, 2014, Trey Songz released his sixth album Trigga and it debuted at number one on the US Billboard 200 with first-week sales of 105,000 copies.[41]
On May 18, 2015, Songz digitally released the full-length album Intermission I & II. Half of the tracks on the album were previously available on the Intermission EP, which was released on April 14, 2015.[42][43] Tremaine The Album was released on March 24, 2017, three years after his last LP. This album is based on his given name, Tremaine Aldon Neverson. The LP is made up of 15 songs and the lone feature comes from fellow Virginia artist and frequent collaborator MIKExANGEL on "Games We Play."[44]
2020–present: Back Home and upcoming ninth studio album
[edit]On April 29, 2020, Trey Songz released "Back Home" featuring Summer Walker. The song was produced by Hitmaka and samples Rose Royce's "I'm Going Down".[45] On June 5, in response to the uprising following the murders of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor, Songz released "2020 Riots: How Many Times". He also released an accompanying video. On August 14, Songz released the second single "Circles", which was produced by his longtime collaborator Troy Taylor.[46] The official video was directed by Mahaneela and is said to have been inspired by Black love.[47] Songz' eighth album, Back Home, was released on October 9, 2020.[48]
Personal life
[edit]In April 2019, Songz announced the birth of his first child, a son, with Caro Colon.[49]
Artistry
[edit]Songz possesses a tenor vocal range.[50][51] His music is generally R&B[3] and hip hop[2] Songz's musical influences include Luther Vandross, Prince, R. Kelly, Michael Jackson, and Usher.[52][53]
Legal controversies
[edit]Assault of police officers accusations
[edit]In December 2016, following a performance at Joe Louis Arena in Detroit, Songz was arrested and charged with felony assault of a police officer and misdemeanor aggravated assault for injuring a photographer.[54] It was alleged that the singer "began throwing objects after the venue cut his concert short due to an 11:30 pm curfew" and to have "struck an officer with his fist".[55] Trey Songz pleaded guilty in August 2017 to two reduced counts of disturbing the peace, and was sentenced to 18 months of probation, substance screening and anger-management classes.[54][56] In June 2018, Songz was sued in federal court for the incident that took place following the 2016 Detroit concert.[57] A Detroit police officer alleges in the lawsuit that he suffered a "career-ending brain injury", and had to undergo a hip replacement when Songz allegedly punched him in the face.[58] The officer alleged that after being hit, he and Songz fell to the floor, with the singer landing on top of the officer, causing him to hit his head on the concrete and also hurt his hip.[58] A photographer working the show, also a party to the lawsuit, alleged that he sustained a head injury after Songz allegedly threw a microphone stand at him.[58][57]
On January 24, 2021, Songz was arrested in Kansas City, Missouri, while attending the conference championship game between the Kansas City Chiefs and Buffalo Bills. Songz was being heckled by fans, and he asked them to "chill out". An officer came over, and from sources and a video released by TMZ, an altercation ensued. This altercation led to Songz being arrested, and charges of trespassing, resisting arrest, both misdemeanors, and for assaulting a police officer, a felony. He was released from custody the next day. Sources connected to Songz with direct knowledge told TMZ he believes the officer in question had been biased against him long before the altercation, and when the officer approached him he was immediately aggressive. Another source says the officer's issue before the incident was that Songz and his crew were not wearing masks and refused to put them on.[59] The Kansas City Police Department released the security video from their section, which showed that the police warned Songz and his entourage several times during multiple encounters with security and police, eventually resulting in Songz being escorted out of the seating area, at which point he threw the first punch at the police officer.[60] In November 2024, the singer has been ordered to pay the police officer more than $11 million in damages.[61]
Sexual assault accusations
[edit]On January 22, 2017, actress/singer Keke Palmer accused Songz of secretly filming her and using the footage without her permission in the music video for his remix with Fabolous of the Travis Scott and Young Thug song “Pick Up the Phone”. She also accused him of using "sexual intimidation" while recording her, and that at one point during the alleged incident she hid from him in a closet so she would not be filmed and berated by him.[62] Songz disputed these claims, asserting that Palmer knowingly entered a video shoot and was subsequently recorded by a cameraman. Songz denied the claims during an interview on The Breakfast Club, stating: "I did not put her in the video without her permission. I don't care that much to sneak Keke Palmer in the video for two seconds."[63]
In 2020, a woman claimed that Songz sexually assaulted her[64] at E11Even Miami nightclub on January 1, 2018. She later filed a lawsuit seeking damages of $10 million. The lawsuit was later dismissed.
On December 30, 2021, Dylan Gonzalez, a former member of University of Las Vegas' women's basketball team, tweeted, "Trey Songz Is A Rapist".[65] On January 11, 2022, she released a statement on social media accusing Songz of raping her "at a well known Las Vegas hotel". Songz later denied the accusation.[66]
In February 2022, a third woman accused Trey Songz of rape, saying he anally raped her in March 2016.[67][68] That civil suit was concluded and settled in 2024 following mediation.[69]
In 2023, Tyrelle Dunn, a Maryland Capitol police officer, sued Songz for sexually assaulting Dunn's wife on November 28, 2021 at The Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas.[70][71] Dunn's lawsuit charges battery, assault, and negligence, and negligent hiring, training, supervision and retention of Songz' security detail, who injured Dunn during a confrontation outside of Songz' residence.[70] In October 2024, a Clark County judge awarded a $11.2 million default judgement against Songz.[70] On January 16, 2025, the judge dismissed the judgement.[70][71] In March 2025, it was reported that a jury trial for the 2021 sexual assault has been scheduled for March 16, 2026.[70] Trey Songz is expected to testify during the trial.[70]
Discography
[edit]Studio albums
- I Gotta Make It (2005)
- Trey Day (2007)
- Ready (2009)
- Passion, Pain & Pleasure (2010)
- Chapter V (2012)
- Trigga (2014)
- Tremaine (2017)
- Back Home (2020)
Tours
[edit]- Headlining
- Cingular College Tour HBCUs (2005)[72]
- Trey Day Tour (2007/08)[73]
- Ready Tour (2009)[74]
- Passion, Pain & Pleasure Tour (2010)[75]
- Anticipation 2our (2012)[76]
- Chapter V World Tour (2012)[77]
- Between The Sheets Tour (with Chris Brown) (2015)[78]
- Tremaine The Tour (2017)[79]
- The Millennium Tour (2025)
- Opening act
- The Blueprint 3 Tour – Jay-Z (2010)[80]
- OMG Tour – Usher (2010)[81]
- The Pinkprint Tour – Nicki Minaj (2015)[82]
- The Love Hard Tour – Keyshia Cole (2024)[83]
Filmography
[edit]Film
[edit]| Year | Title | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 2008 | Queen of Media | DJ I.V. |
| 2010 | Preacher's Kid | Monty |
| 2013 | Texas Chainsaw 3D | Ryan |
| 2013 | Baggage Claim | Damon Diesel |
| 2018 | Blood Brother | Sonny |
Television
[edit]| Year | Title | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2009 | Lincoln Heights | Himself | Episode: "Relative Unknown" |
| 2010 | When I Was 17 | Documentary | |
| 2010 | Trey Songz: My Moment | ||
| 2013 | Real Husbands of Hollywood | Episode: "Hollywood Scuffle" | |
| 2014 | Total Divas | Episode: "The House Sitters" |
Awards and nominations
[edit]Grammy Awards
[edit]| Year | Nominee / work | Award | Result | Ref. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2009 | "Can't Help but Wait" | Best Male R&B Vocal Performance | Nominated | |
| 2010 | Ready | Best Contemporary R&B Album | Nominated | |
| 2013 | "Heart Attack" | Best R&B Song | Nominated |
Other awards
[edit]| Year | Award | Category | Recipient | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2005 | Dirty Award | Best R&B Male | Trey Songz | Nominated |
| 2008 | BET Award | Best Male R&B Artist[13] | Trey Songz | Nominated |
| Ozone Award | Best R&B Artist[84] | Trey Songz | Nominated | |
| 2009 | Soul Train Music Award | Best Collaboration | "Successful" | Nominated |
| 2010 | BET Award | Best Male R&B Artist | Trey Songz | Won |
| Best Collaboration | "Say Ahh" w/ Fabolous | Nominated | ||
| Best Collaboration | "Successful" w/ Drake | Nominated | ||
| Viewer's Choice | "Say Ahh" w/ Fabolous | Nominated | ||
| MuchMusic Video Award | MuchVibe Hip-Hop Video of the Year | "Successful" | Won | |
| MOBO Award | Best International Act | Trey Songz | Nominated | |
| Teen Choice Award | Choice Music: R&B Artist | Trey Songz | Nominated | |
| American Music Award | Favorite Soul/R&B Male artist | Trey Songz | Nominated | |
| Soul Train Music Award | Best R&B/Soul Artist Male | Trey Songz | Won | |
| 2011 | BET Award | Best Male R&B Artist[85] | Trey Songz | Nominated |
| Coca-Cola's Viewer's Choice [86] | "Bottom's Up" | Nominated | ||
| Billboard Music Award | Top R&B Artist | Trey Songz | Nominated | |
| Top R&B Song | "Bottoms Up" | Nominated | ||
| Top R&B Album | Passion, Pain & Pleasure | Nominated | ||
| American Music Award | Favorite Soul/R&B Male artist | Trey Songz | Nominated | |
| Soul Train Music Award | Album of the Year | Passion Pain & Pleasure | Nominated | |
| Song of the Year | "Heart Attack" | Nominated | ||
| 2012 | BET Award | Best Male R&B Artist[13] | Trey Songz | Nominated |
| American Music Award | Favorite Soul/R&B Male artist | Trey Songz | Nominated | |
| Soul Train Music Award | Best R&B/Soul Male Artist | Trey Songz | Nominated | |
| Song of the Year | "Heart Attack" | Nominated | ||
| 2013 | Billboard Music Award | Top R&B Song | "Heart Attack" | Nominated |
| Teen Choice Award | Choice Music R&B Artist | Trey Songz | Nominated | |
| NAACP Image Award | Outstanding Male Artist | Trey Songz | Nominated | |
| 2014 | MOBO Awards | Best International Act | Trey Songz | Nominated |
| Soul Train Music Award | Best R&B/Soul Artist Male | Trey Songz | Won | |
| 2015 | Billboard Music Awards | Top R&B Artist | Trey Songz | Nominated |
| 2015 | BET Awards | Best Male R&B/Pop Artist | Trey Songz | Nominated |
| 2017 | BET Awards | Best Male R&B/Pop Artist | Trey Songz | Nominated |
References
[edit]- ^ "Trey Songz released music under the name 'Prince of Virginia' in his early days". Capital XTRA.
- ^ a b c "Trey Songz | Biography, Albums, Streaming Links". AllMusic.
- ^ a b "About Trey Songz", MTV, archived from the original on April 10, 2016, retrieved January 23, 2017
- ^ a b c Jeffries, David. "Trey Songz – Biography". AllMusic. Retrieved August 24, 2009.
- ^ "April Tucker's Bio". www.peatc.org. Retrieved June 7, 2014.[dead link]
- ^ "A Minute With: Singer Trey Songz on new movie "Texas Chainsaw 3D"". Reuters. January 2, 2013. Archived from the original on March 6, 2016.
- ^ a b Dawson, Imani A. (May 24, 2005). "Next – Trey Songz – Making History". Vibe. Archived from the original on February 21, 2014. Retrieved April 7, 2009.
- ^ "Trey Songz". Biography.com.
- ^ Dombal, Ryan (June 6, 2005). "Trey Cheeky". Entertainment Weekly. Archived from the original on April 26, 2014. Retrieved August 24, 2009.
- ^ Trey Songz Music News & Info | Billboard.com
- ^ "Artist Chart History – Trey Songz – Albums". Billboard. Nielsen Business Media. Retrieved April 7, 2009.
- ^ "Trey Songz". Billboard. Retrieved July 2, 2014.
- ^ a b c "2008 BET Awards winners and nominees". Los Angeles Times. June 24, 2008. Retrieved November 14, 2008.
- ^ "New R&B Music: Trey Songz – Anticipation Mixtape". July 2, 2009. Retrieved July 2, 2009.
- ^ "Trey Songz – Genesis Mixtape". June 18, 2009. Retrieved July 2, 2009.
- ^ Caulfield, Keith; Herrera, Monica. "Whitney Houston Debuts At No. 1 On Billboard 200". Billboard. Retrieved September 9, 2009.
- ^ "An Inside Look At Trey Songz' New 'MTV Unplugged' Performance". April 2, 2010. Archived from the original on April 22, 2010. Retrieved April 5, 2010.
- ^ "O cantor Trey Songz é preso após agredir um policial no jogo do campeonato da NFL". January 25, 2021. Retrieved January 21, 2021.
- ^ "Trey Songz (@TreySongz) op Twitter". Twitter.com. Retrieved September 8, 2012.
- ^ "Trey Songz". TV Guide. September 9, 2010.
- ^ "News". Trey Songz Official Website. Retrieved March 9, 2015.
- ^ "BET Awards 2011 Performers". Bet.com. Archived from the original on September 19, 2020.
- ^ "Trey Songz Announces New Album Title". Rap-Up. August 18, 2011. Retrieved August 18, 2011.
- ^ "Trey Songz On 'Chapter 5': 'You can expect the best me you've ever heard'". Thatgrapejuice.net. August 23, 2011. Retrieved September 8, 2012.
- ^ Cyrus Langhorne (December 7, 2011). "Drake Takes the Pack, Rihanna Talks & Walks Outside the Top 5, Trey Songz Invades the Chart". Sohh. Archived from the original on January 7, 2012.
- ^ "Here's Your Leatherface for Texas Chainsaw Massacre 3D". ShockTilYouDrop. CraveOnline. July 19, 2011. Retrieved July 22, 2011.
- ^ "Chapter V – Trey Songz : Release Information, Reviews and Credits". Allmusic. Rovi Corporation. Retrieved September 2, 2012.
- ^ a b "Trey Songz Announces 'Anticipation 2our' with Big Sean". TrueExclusives.com. January 7, 2012. Retrieved January 8, 2012.
- ^ a b c "Trey Songz". Official Charts Company. Retrieved September 26, 2012.
- ^ Langhorne, Cyrus (October 3, 2012) P!nk Scribbles Out The Competition, Lupe Fiasco Eats G.O.O.D. At No. 5, Kanye West & Co. Leave Top 5. sohh.com
- ^ "Trey Songz Album & Song Chart History". Billboard. Retrieved September 26, 2012.
- ^ "Video: Trey Songz – 'Heart Attack'". Rap-Up. Retrieved March 9, 2015.
- ^ "Trey Songz Sets 'Chapter V' Release Date". Rap-Up. June 8, 2012. Retrieved September 2, 2012.
- ^ "New Songs, Latest Music, Future Releases – Capital FM". Capital. Retrieved March 9, 2015.
- ^ "Video: Trey Songz – 'Simply Amazing'". Rap-Up. Retrieved March 9, 2015.
- ^ "UK Forthcoming Singles". Radio1 Rodos Greece. Archived from the original on October 20, 2012. Retrieved September 29, 2012.
- ^ "Video: Trey Songz – 'Never Again'". Rap-Up. Retrieved March 9, 2015.
- ^ "The Angel Network". Angelnetwork.treysongz.com. Archived from the original on January 25, 2014. Retrieved July 2, 2014.
- ^ Sanfiorenzo, Dimas (February 7, 2014). "Trey Songz & Jeezy "Ordinary" (NEW MUSIC)". Global Grind. Retrieved June 7, 2014.
- ^ "New Music: Trey Songz – Smart Phones". ThisisRnB.com. March 31, 2014. Retrieved June 7, 2014.
- ^ "Trey Songz Scores Second No. 1 Album With 'Trigga'". Billboard. December 28, 2013. Retrieved July 9, 2014.
- ^ Brown, Harley (May 18, 2015). "Trey Songz Surprise-Releases 'Intermission I & II'". Spin.
- ^ Frydenlund, Zach (May 18, 2015). "Stream Trey Songz's 'Intermission I & II' Project". Complex.
- ^ Hernandez, Victoria (March 24, 2017). "Trey Songz Shares "Tremaine" Album". Hiphopdx.com. Retrieved March 26, 2017.
- ^ ratedrnbcom (April 30, 2020). "Trey Songz, Summer Walker Release New Song 'Back Home'". Rated R&B. Retrieved August 17, 2020.
- ^ ratedrnbcom (August 14, 2020). "Trey Songz Releases New Song 'Circles'". Rated R&B. Retrieved August 17, 2020.
- ^ "@treysongz on Instagram: "The video for Circles is amazing, directed by @mahaneela.jpg we centered it around black love and some of circles we go through in…"". Archived from the original on December 26, 2021. Retrieved August 17, 2020 – via Instagram.
- ^ Espinoza, Joshua (October 9, 2020). "Trey Songz Drops 'Back Home' Album f/ Ty Dolla Sign, Summer Walker, More". Complex. Retrieved October 9, 2020.
- ^ "Trey Songz Claps Back After Fans Question Who His Son's Mother Is". Rap-Up. July 7, 2019. Retrieved January 19, 2021.
- ^ "Ranking the Voices of 10 Men in Pop". Barkbiteblog.typepad.com. November 28, 2011. Retrieved April 30, 2019.
- ^ S, Suzy (February 13, 2015). "How to Get the Vocal Range of Famous Singers". TakeLessons.com. Retrieved May 1, 2019.
- ^ "Artist Influences for Trey Songz", MTV, archived from the original on August 6, 2016, retrieved January 23, 2017
- ^ "My Way: 10 Artists Usher Has Influenced". The Bet Honours. Retrieved June 24, 2016.
- ^ a b McCollum, Brian (June 5, 2018). "Trey Songz sued for alleged assault by police officer, photographer". USA Today.
- ^ Melas, Chloe (December 30, 2016). "Trey Songz Charged With Assaulting an Officer After Detroit Concert Incident". CNN.
- ^ Hill, Crystal (June 4, 2018). "R&B singer Trey Songz punched a cop and hurt a photographer after concert, lawsuit says". Miami Herald.
- ^ a b "Trey Songz Sued by Police Officer & Photographer Over Detroit Concert Injuries". Billboard. Associated Press. June 5, 2018.
- ^ a b c Ikonomova, Violet (June 4, 2018). "Detroit cop sues Trey Songz after sustaining brain injury in altercation with R&B artist". Detroit Metro Times.
- ^ "TREY SONGZ VIOLENT ALTERCATION WITH COP AT CHIEFS GAME. Allegedly Refused to Mask Up". TMZ. January 25, 2021. Retrieved January 25, 2021.
- ^ "KCPD". Retrieved January 25, 2021.
- ^ "Trey Songz Ordered to Pay $11M to Beaten up Cop". November 26, 2024.
- ^ Petit, Stephanie (January 23, 2017). "Keke Palmer Alleges Trey Songz Used 'Sexual Intimidation' to Make Her Appear in Music Video". People. Retrieved January 12, 2022.
- ^ "Trey Songz Talks Keke Palmer, Tremaine the Playboy, New Music & More". YouTube. February 17, 2017.
- ^ Eustice, Kyle (January 3, 2020). "TREY SONGZ FACES $10M LAWSUIT OVER ALLEGED MIAMI CLUB SEXUAL ASSAULT". Hiphopdx.com. Retrieved October 3, 2021.
- ^ Harris, Ida (December 31, 2021). "'Trey Songz Is A Rapist': Basketball Player Dylan Gonzalez Tweets Scathing Accusation". Yahoo!.
- ^ Gilbert, Asha C. (January 12, 2022). "Former UNLV basketball player accuses Trey Songz of rape, says she has 'unbearable PTSD'". USA Today. Retrieved January 12, 2022.
- ^ "Trey Songz accused of rape by third alleged victim in new lawsuit". February 16, 2022.
- ^ "Trey Songz Accused of Sexually Assaulting 2 Women Following 2015 House Party". Peoplemag. Retrieved April 19, 2024.
- ^ "Trey Songz Settles $25M Sexual Assault Lawsuit from 2023". April 15, 2024.
- ^ a b c d e f Murphy, Vanessa (March 26, 2025). Singer ‘Trey Songz’ expected to take the stand in Las Vegas case. 8News Now.
- ^ a b Mendez, Marisa (January 23, 2025). Trey Songz Succeeds in Getting $11M Las Vegas Battery Lawsuit Dismissed. HipHopDx.
- ^ "Trey Songz Hits Road on Cingular College Tour in Wake of Top 20 Billboard 200 Debut; Singer Makes It With "I GOTTA MAKE IT"". Marketwired. August 19, 2005. Retrieved December 1, 2018.
- ^ "J. Meets Trey in Holiday/Songz-Fest: J. Holiday and Trey Songz Plan National Spring Tour". Marketwired. February 19, 2008. Retrieved December 1, 2018.
- ^ "R&B Singer Trey Songz Dominates Charts with 'Ready' Album as Fall Tour is Announced". PopMatters. September 9, 2009. Retrieved December 1, 2018.
- ^ "Trey Songz and Monica Wrap 'Passion, Pain & Pleasure' Tour in New York". Rap-Up. September 18, 2010. Retrieved December 1, 2018.
- ^ Horowitz, Steven (January 6, 2012). "Trey Songz & Big Sean Announce "The Anticipation Tour"". Hiphopdx.com. Retrieved December 1, 2018.
- ^ "Trey Songz Announces 'Chapter V World Tour' with Miguel, Elle Varner". Rap-Up. October 9, 2012. Retrieved December 1, 2018.
- ^ "Chris Brown & Trey Songz Talk 'Between the Sheets' Tour: Watch!". Billboard. November 11, 2014. Retrieved December 1, 2018.
- ^ "Trey Songz Announces 'Tremaine' Tour, Shares Tracklist". Billboard. March 20, 2017. Retrieved December 1, 2018.
- ^ "Trey Songz To Join Jay-Z's "Blueprint 3" Tour". Billboard. January 8, 2010. Retrieved December 1, 2018.
- ^ "Q&A: Trey Songz Talks Usher 'OMG Tour'". Rap-Up. October 11, 2010. Retrieved December 1, 2018.
- ^ "Nicki Minaj tickets for 'The Pinkprint' UK tour with Trey Songz out now". Daily Mirror. December 12, 2014. Retrieved December 1, 2018.
- ^ Abraham, Mya (December 14, 2023). "Keyshia Cole To Headline The Love Hard Tour With Trey Songz, K. Michelle, And Jaheim". Vibe. Retrieved February 26, 2024.
- ^ "Lil Wayne Leads The Pack With 8 Ozone Awards Nominations". XXL. Harris Publications. July 14, 2008. Archived from the original on April 10, 2009. Retrieved June 10, 2009.
- ^ "Best Male R&B Artist". BET. Archived from the original on May 21, 2011. Retrieved November 21, 2011.
- ^ "Coca-Cola's Viewer's Choice". BET. Archived from the original on May 21, 2011. Retrieved November 21, 2011.
External links
[edit]Trey Songz
View on GrokipediaTremaine Aldon Neverson (born November 28, 1984), known professionally as Trey Songz, is an American R&B singer, songwriter, rapper, and actor raised in Petersburg, Virginia.[1][2] He gained recognition with his debut studio album I Gotta Make It in 2005, which charted on the Billboard 200, and achieved commercial success through subsequent releases like Ready (2009) and Passion, Pain & Pleasure (2010), featuring hit singles such as "Can't Help But Wait" and "Say Aah."[2][3] Songz has earned accolades including BET Awards for Best Male R&B Artist and Billboard Music Awards for Top R&B Artist, along with RIAA certifications for platinum-selling albums and singles, though he has received Grammy nominations without securing a win.[4][5][6] His career, centered on sensual R&B themes and collaborations with artists like Drake and T-Pain, has sold millions of records but has been overshadowed by recurring controversies, including multiple lawsuits alleging sexual assault at parties and physical assaults on individuals such as a cameraman and a woman at a bowling alley, many of which remain unresolved or resulted in charges rather than convictions.[3][7][8][9]
Early life
Family background and upbringing
Tremaine Aldon Neverson, professionally known as Trey Songz, was born on November 28, 1984, in Petersburg, Virginia, to April Gholson Tucker and Claude Neverson Jr.[10] His parents separated when he was two years old, after which his biological father maintained minimal involvement in his life, as recounted by his mother: "When we broke up, his dad kinda broke up with Trey... Dad wasn't really involved."[10] Raised initially as a single parent by Tucker, who was 17 at the time of his birth, Neverson grew up in a working-class household marked by his mother's determination amid limited paternal support.[11] At age seven, Tucker's marriage to a U.S. Army member introduced military family dynamics, with the household relocating frequently across bases for the next several years, fostering an adaptable but transient early environment often described as that of a "military brat." The family returned to Petersburg around 1998, when Neverson was 14, allowing him to complete his formative teenage years in his birthplace amid local elementary and high school attendance.[10][12] These experiences, including exposure to R&B artists like Luther Vandross and R. Kelly through family and cultural influences, shaped his initial worldview, emphasizing resilience and ambition in a context of economic modesty and paternal absence.[11] Following his high school graduation from Petersburg High School in 2003, Neverson relocated to New Jersey at age 18 to pursue opportunities closer to New York City's music industry, navigating the shift from small-town Virginia life to urban professional ambitions under mentorship arrangements.[10][13] This transition, while career-oriented, reflected broader formative pressures from his upbringing, including peer dynamics and the drive to transcend limited local prospects.[14]Education and initial musical pursuits
Tremaine Neverson, professionally known as Trey Songz, attended Petersburg High School in Petersburg, Virginia, where he developed an interest in music during his teenage years.[10] Around age 14, he began entering local talent competitions, winning numerous contests and accumulating as many as 19 trophies through performances that showcased his vocal abilities.[11] These experiences, often at venues like the Appomattox Regional Governor's School, marked his initial foray into public singing and helped him hone self-taught skills in songwriting and demo recording by imitating established artists.[15] During high school, Neverson connected with producer Troy Taylor after performing in talent shows and sharing demos, leading Taylor to recognize his potential despite Neverson's lack of formal training.[16] Taylor encouraged him to complete his education before pursuing music professionally, and Neverson graduated from Petersburg High School in 2002.[17] Following graduation, he relocated to New Jersey to work closely with Taylor, prioritizing full-time musical development over other opportunities and focusing on raw experimentation in local performances across Virginia and emerging New Jersey scenes to build his foundational repertoire.[10]Musical career
2002–2006: Early deals and debut album I Gotta Make It
In 2003, Tremaine Aldon Neverson, known professionally as Trey Songz, was discovered by record producer Troy Taylor during an audition in New Jersey; Taylor subsequently mentored him in songwriting and production while signing him to his imprint, Songbook Entertainment, in a joint venture with Atlantic Records.[18][19] Songz's debut album, I Gotta Make It, was released on July 26, 2005, via Atlantic Records, featuring production primarily from Taylor and collaborations such as Twista on the title track.[20][21] The lead single, "Gotta Make It" (featuring Twista), emphasized themes of ambition and perseverance in pursuing music stardom, while follow-up "Gotta Go" addressed relationship conflicts amid rising fame.[21][22] The album debuted at number 20 on the Billboard 200 chart, with first-week sales of 40,000 copies, reflecting modest initial commercial performance amid competition in the R&B market.[23] It ultimately sold fewer than 500,000 units in the United States, failing to achieve RIAA certification and underscoring early hurdles in building mainstream traction.[24] Critics acknowledged Songz's smooth tenor and potential as a newcomer but critiqued the project's inconsistency, with some tracks hampered by underdeveloped lyrics and overreliance on formulaic R&B tropes reflective of his youth and limited experience.[25][24] AllMusic rated it 2.5 out of 5 stars, praising vocal promise while noting stylistic unevenness, while HipHopDX highlighted authentic youthful perspectives but faulted production for lacking polish.[25][24] Songz encountered industry challenges, including reported internal label pressures that nearly led to his release from Atlantic shortly after debut—averted partly through external advocacy—and the personal strain of relocating from Virginia to New Jersey for recording, which delayed full creative focus.[26][27] These factors contributed to limited promotion and radio play, positioning the album as a foundational but commercially underwhelming entry that highlighted Songz's raw talent amid R&B's saturated landscape.[28]2006–2008: Breakthrough with Trey Day
Trey Songz released his second studio album, Trey Day, on October 2, 2007, through Atlantic Records. The project marked a refinement in his R&B sound, incorporating more electronic and club-oriented production elements alongside sensual themes centered on romance and desire. Produced in collaboration with notable figures including the Norwegian duo Stargate, Danja, and R. Kelly, the album featured tracks like the introspective "Can't Help But Wait," which highlighted Songz's falsetto and emotional delivery.[29][30] Trey Day debuted at number 11 on the Billboard 200 chart. Its lead single, "Can't Help But Wait," produced by Stargate, reached number 14 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number 2 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart, earning Songz his first Grammy Award nomination for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance in 2008. The album's commercial performance signified initial mainstream traction, with eventual U.S. sales exceeding 400,000 units, though it received mixed critical reception for its blend of vulnerability and bravado in lyrical content.[31][32][33] To promote the release, Songz embarked on his first headlining outing, the Trey Day Tour, spanning late 2007 into 2008, which included dozens of live performances across North America and helped cultivate a dedicated fanbase through energetic shows emphasizing his vocal range and stage presence. This period represented a transitional breakthrough, building on his debut by elevating visibility via radio play and touring while foreshadowing future hits rooted in party anthems and intimate confessions.[34][35]2008–2010: Commercial success of Ready
Ready, Trey Songz's third studio album, was released on August 31, 2009, by Songbook and Atlantic Records.[36] It debuted at number 3 on the US Billboard 200 chart, selling 131,000 copies in its first week.[37] The album eventually achieved platinum certification from the RIAA on June 11, 2014, for domestic sales exceeding 1,000,000 units.[6] This marked Songz's first platinum-selling project, driven by strategic promotion emphasizing his vocal range and club-oriented tracks. The album spawned several hit singles that boosted its commercial performance. "I Need a Girl," released as the lead single in April 2009, peaked at number 59 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number 6 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. Follow-up "Say Aah" featuring Fabolous reached number 9 on the Hot 100 in February 2010, becoming Songz's first top-10 hit on the chart and a staple in party settings due to its explicit, celebratory lyrics about drinking. These tracks, supported by music videos and radio airplay, contributed to the album's sustained chart presence and over 500,000 units sold by early 2010, earning initial gold status.[38] Ready featured themes centered on seduction, relationships, and explicit intimacy, with tracks like "Neighbors Know My Name" and "I Invented Sex" highlighting Songz's falsetto and sensual delivery, appealing broadly while resonating with male listeners through party anthems and male-perspective narratives.[36][39] The album's marketing and content positioned Songz as a rising R&B figure, often dubbed the "Prince of R&B" in media coverage for his blend of romantic ballads and uptempo hits amid competition from established artists like Usher and contemporaries such as Chris Brown.[40] This era saw increased media appearances and features, solidifying his stardom through consistent touring and crossover appeal.[41]2010–2012: Peak era with Passion, Pain & Pleasure and Chapter V
Trey Songz released his fourth studio album, Passion, Pain & Pleasure, on September 14, 2010.[42] The album debuted at number 2 on the US Billboard 200 chart, selling 240,000 copies in its first week.[43] It produced the single "Bottoms Up" featuring Nicki Minaj, which reached number 6 on the Billboard Hot 100.[44] The follow-up single "Can't Be Friends" topped the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart for 13 weeks.[45] In 2012, Songz issued his fifth album, Chapter V, on August 21.[46] It became his first to debut at number 1 on the Billboard 200, moving 135,000 units in its debut week.[31] The lead single "Heart Attack," co-produced by Benny Blanco and Rico Love, peaked at number 35 on the Hot 100 while earning a gold certification from the RIAA for 500,000 digital downloads.[47][48] Tracks on Chapter V emphasized emotional vulnerability alongside R&B production, contributing to the album's reception as a commercial high point.[31] This era solidified Songz's status in R&B with consistent top-charting releases and strong digital performance, including multiple RIAA-certified works.[49] Passion, Pain & Pleasure received a double platinum certification from the RIAA in recognition of sustained sales.[49]2013–2018: Trigga, Tremaine, and creative shifts
Trey Songz released his sixth studio album, Trigga, on July 1, 2014, through Songbook and Atlantic Records. The project debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart, selling 105,000 album-equivalent units in its first week.[50][51] Certified platinum by the RIAA for combined sales and streaming equivalent units exceeding one million, Trigga emphasized explicit sexual themes and production leaning into contemporary R&B with hip-hop edges.[52] The lead single "Na Na", released in early 2014, exemplified this direction with its provocative lyrics and a black-and-white music video depicting simulated sexual acts, which garnered attention for its overt sensuality.[53] Songz's approach in Trigga represented mid-career experimentation, pushing boundaries on lewd content to differentiate amid a diversifying R&B field increasingly influenced by trap beats and melodic rap crossovers. In 2017, Songz shifted toward introspection with Tremaine the Album, released on March 24 and peaking at number three on the Billboard 200 with 67,000 first-week units.[54][55] Featuring singles like "Nobody Else But You", the album tempered prior bravado with personal reflection on relationships and vulnerability, contrasting Trigga's hedonism.[56] This pivot occurred as traditional R&B sales declined industry-wide, with streaming reshaping consumption and favoring genre hybrids over pure vocal-driven works. By 2018, Songz's U.S. album sales totaled over 4.5 million units across his catalog, though first-week figures for Tremaine marked a downward trend from Trigga's debut, signaling challenges in sustaining peak commercial momentum amid label expectations and market evolution toward digital platforms.[57] No public tensions with Atlantic were documented during this period, but the creative reinvention underscored Songz's efforts to adapt to waning physical sales and rising competition from emerging artists.2020–present: Back Home, independent singles, and career trajectory
Trey Songz released his eighth studio album Back Home on October 9, 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, featuring 22 tracks including the Summer Walker collaboration "Back Home," which topped the Adult R&B Airplay chart in November 2020.[58] The project, distributed via Atlantic Records, earned praise for its return to core R&B elements, with critics highlighting tracks like "Lost & Found" and "Hands On" in a 4-out-of-5-star review.[59] Commercial performance was subdued relative to earlier albums, aligning with industry disruptions from lockdowns and accelerated streaming dominance.[60] Post-Back Home, Songz adopted a strategy of independent singles without full-length follow-ups, releasing "Lost in Time" on April 19, 2025, produced by longtime collaborator Troy Taylor.[61] Additional 2025 singles included "Say The Word," "Can't Stay Mad," "History," and "Lit Again" featuring NIA and Ray J, emphasizing direct-to-fan distribution via platforms like Apple Music and Spotify.[62] As of October 2025, no ninth studio album has been confirmed or released, marking a departure from the consistent album cycles of his 2010s peak.[63] Songz sustained visibility through live engagements, including a 2025 SiriusXM intimate set commemorating 20 years in music and headlining spots on the Millennium Tour 2025 with Omarion and Bow Wow, announced in November 2024.[64] Social media and targeted performances supplemented output amid streaming metrics showing persistent but diminished traction—total Spotify streams exceed 6 billion, yet recent tracks trail legacy hits like "Bottoms Up" by orders of magnitude.[65] This trajectory reflects R&B sector challenges, including algorithmic preferences for short-form viral content and heightened competition from emerging artists. Coinciding legal entanglements, such as a September 2025 settlement of a $20 million sexual assault lawsuit from a 2018 nightclub incident and ongoing disputes over an $11 million battery judgment, have overlapped with this phase of selective releases, constraining promotional momentum and label partnerships.[66][67] These factors underscore a pivot toward sustained fanbase loyalty over blockbuster pursuits.Artistry
Musical style and vocal technique
Trey Songz's vocal technique emphasizes a falsetto-heavy delivery, often deployed to heighten sensuality and emotional intensity, as evidenced in his deployment of light, teasing falsetto lines that span a reported range from Ab2 to G5.[68][69][70] This approach, combined with frequent ad-libs, runs, and vibrato, mirrors classic R&B phrasing while prioritizing smooth, emotive power over rigid technical precision.[71][72] His musical style initially focused on melodic ballads but evolved post-2010 toward integration of trap-influenced beats and hip-hop cadences, aligning with R&B's broader shift toward rhythmic experimentation and urban fusion.[73][74][75] Lyrically, Songz predominantly explores romance, lust, and hedonism, themes that have drawn critiques for objectifying women and reinforcing misogynistic tropes, yet he maintains they reflect unfiltered male perspectives rather than contrived narratives.[76][77][78] Through sustained production partnerships with Troy Taylor, Songz's tracks achieve layered vocal harmonies and hook-driven structures optimized for commercial radio rotation and club playback, emphasizing polished, multi-tracked arrangements that amplify his lead vocals.[79][80][81] This collaborative method prioritizes sonic density and accessibility, contributing to his chart longevity in R&B formats.[82]Influences, songwriting, and collaborations
Trey Songz has cited several artists from the 1990s R&B era as key influences on his style, including R. Kelly and Usher for their emotive delivery and thematic focus on romance and sensuality.[83] He has also named fellow Virginia native D'Angelo as his primary musical influence, appreciating the blend of soulful vulnerability and rhythmic innovation in D'Angelo's work.[84] In hip-hop, Songz drew inspiration from Tupac Shakur's narrative-driven lyricism, which emphasized raw storytelling and personal struggle, influencing his approach to conveying authentic emotional depth in songs.[85] Songz's songwriting process typically involves co-writing the majority of his tracks alongside longtime collaborator Troy Taylor, whom he credits with developing his foundational skills through structured training and studio immersion starting in his early career.[86] He prioritizes drawing from direct personal experiences, such as relationships and introspection, to craft lyrics that reflect causal connections between life events and emotional outcomes rather than abstract ideals, as evidenced in interviews where he describes channeling real-time relational dynamics into tracks like those on Tremaine.[87] This hands-on method, honed since his debut, ensures a focus on relatable realism over external ghostwriting.[88] Notable collaborations include features with Drake on "I Invented Sex" (2009), which integrated R&B melodies with introspective rap verses, and multiple cuts with Nicki Minaj, such as "Bottoms Up" (2010) and "Touchin, Lovin" (2014), blending seductive hooks with high-energy rap for crossover appeal.[89] Songz has also partnered extensively with producer and songwriter Rico Love on projects like Tremaine (2017), where Love contributed to tracks emphasizing genre fusion between R&B and hip-hop elements to expand sonic variety.[90] These partnerships often incorporate rap influences to broaden accessibility while maintaining Songz's core emotional core.[91]Personal life
Relationships and fatherhood
Trey Songz maintained an on-again, off-again romantic relationship with actress Lauren London from approximately 2009 to 2013.[92] Songz has publicly expressed affection for London, describing her as an important person in his life and stating in a 2012 interview that he once loved her deeply, though they were no longer together at that time.[93] The pair kept much of their involvement private, with Songz confirming the past romance in media appearances while emphasizing mutual respect post-breakup.[94] Songz became a father to his son, Noah Neverson, born on April 19, 2019.[95] The child's mother, whose identity Songz has not publicly disclosed, shares co-parenting duties with him; Songz has praised her parenting in social media posts, noting her handling of daily responsibilities alongside his career commitments.[96] He first confirmed Noah's birth in May 2019 via Instagram, sharing a photo of the infant and expressing joy over fatherhood.[97] Songz has documented his active involvement in Noah's life through frequent social media updates, including celebrations of milestones such as birthdays, the first day of kindergarten in September 2024, and family outings.[98] In October 2020, he featured Noah in the music video for his single "I Know a Love," highlighting bonding moments like dancing together.[99] These posts portray Songz prioritizing paternal roles, countering any impressions of disengagement by showcasing consistent presence despite touring and recording schedules.[100] No other children have been verifiably confirmed as his.Lifestyle, philanthropy, and public persona
Trey Songz owns a contemporary mansion in the gated Bell Canyon enclave near Los Angeles, purchased for $3.45 million in June 2016.[101] The 7,800-square-foot property on a one-acre lot includes modern design elements, mountain views, and luxury features typical of high-end California real estate.[102] Songz founded the Angels With Heart Foundation in 2010 to foster community service and random acts of kindness, particularly encouraging his fanbase, referred to as "Trey's Angels," to donate time and resources to local causes.[103] The organization has hosted benefit events, including a November 2011 concert in New York City streamed for $5 donations, with proceeds directed to charitable initiatives.[104] In support of the foundation's "Angels With Heart" month, he released a charity EP in November 2011, allocating all proceeds to fund its mission of promoting giving back.[105] Songz projects a charismatic public image rooted in his R&B persona, but it has been complicated by polarizing incidents revealing impulsive tendencies. In early 2024, he was involved in a physical altercation with singer Jacquees during a night out in Dubai, which escalated into mutual accusations on social media, including claims of hair-pulling and regret over the confrontation's career impact.[106][107] These public feuds underscore a pattern of off-stage volatility that contrasts with his on-stage appeal and has drawn scrutiny from fans and media.[108]Legal issues
Physical assault allegations and investigations
In April 2016, Trey Songz was involved in an altercation at the MGM Grand Detroit casino following a performance, where he was charged with felony aggravated assault and assaulting a police officer causing injury after allegedly kicking and punching security personnel attempting to end his show.[109] In August 2017, he pleaded guilty to both charges as part of a plea deal, receiving one year of probation and anger management counseling, though he maintained the actions were in response to overzealous intervention by authorities.[109] In June 2018, Songz faced civil accusations from a Detroit police officer, Matthew Potter, and a photographer stemming from a concert incident where Potter claimed Songz assaulted him by punching and kicking during an ejection attempt; no criminal charges resulted, and Songz denied the claims, asserting self-defense against aggressive handling.[110] On October 16, 2022, Songz was accused of physically assaulting a woman in a bathroom at a New York City bowling alley, with the victim alleging repeated punches to the face; he surrendered to NYPD and faced 10 charges including assault and aggravated harassment.[111] In May 2023, he pleaded guilty to a single count of disorderly conduct, resulting in the dismissal of all felony and misdemeanor assault charges, and received no further penalties beyond time served during investigation.[111] In October 2023, Maryland police officer Kevin Dunn filed a civil battery lawsuit against Songz in Las Vegas court, alleging Songz punched and kicked him while Dunn intervened in an altercation involving Songz and Dunn's wife at a 2021 party; Songz did not initially respond, leading to a default judgment of $11,277,961.37 on October 10, 2024, covering medical costs, pain, and punitive damages.[112][113] In January 2025, a Clark County judge vacated the judgment after Songz's team demonstrated he was unaware of the suit due to improper service, allowing the case to proceed; Songz has denied the battery claims, citing lack of evidence and contextual provocation.[112][113] On July 13, 2025, following a performance at The Ivy restaurant in Huntington, New York, videographer Isaa Mansoor accused Songz of assaulting him outside the venue, claiming Songz punched him in the head, shoved him into a wall, and damaged two cameras; the incident was partially captured on video, prompting a Suffolk County police investigation.[7][114] Songz's representatives rejected the allegations, describing media reports as "clickbait" from an "unfinished story" and implying Mansoor's actions provoked a defensive response, with no charges filed as of October 2025.[115]Sexual misconduct accusations and lawsuits
In March 2013, a woman identified as Jane Doe filed a $10 million lawsuit in June 2023 accusing Trey Songz (Tremaine Neverson) of sexual battery and assault at a pool party in Connecticut, alleging that he grabbed her breasts and pulled down her bikini top in front of others without consent while she attempted to leave the event.[116][117] The accuser claimed the incident occurred amid a party atmosphere involving alcohol, with Songz allegedly ignoring her protests.[118] A separate Jane Doe accused Songz of rape in a $25 million lawsuit filed in February 2023 against him, Atlantic Records, manager Kevin Liles, and 300 Entertainment, stemming from an alleged March 2016 incident at a Los Angeles-area house party where she claimed Songz sodomized her without consent after providing alcohol and ignoring her repeated refusals.[119][120] The suit further alleged that the defendants covered up the assault to protect Songz's career, including pressuring the accuser to remain silent.[121] Songz denied the claims, stating they were "false and defamatory" and that he intended to defend himself vigorously, asserting no such non-consensual act occurred.[122] In early 2022, another unnamed woman filed a $20 million civil lawsuit in Los Angeles accusing Songz of raping her at a house party in West Hills following a concert, claiming he isolated her in a bedroom, ignored her objections, and assaulted her despite her incapacitation from alcohol.[123][124] The accuser described the setting as a crowded after-party where Songz allegedly exerted influence over attendees. Songz's representatives dismissed the allegations as baseless.[8] On January 1, 2018, Jauhara Jeffries alleged that Songz sexually assaulted her at Miami's E11even nightclub during a New Year's Eve party, claiming he forced his hand under her dress and digitally penetrated her without consent while she was intoxicated and trying to exit a crowded VIP area.[66][125] Jeffries filed a $20 million suit in 2020, seeking damages for assault, battery, and emotional distress. Songz denied the accusations, with his legal team arguing the interaction was consensual or fabricated, and countersued claiming witness tampering by the accuser's side.[126][127] These claims share patterns of occurring in high-energy party or club environments involving alcohol, with accusers alleging non-consensual advances by Songz amid his celebrity status, while Songz consistently rebutted them as consensual encounters or publicity-seeking falsehoods lacking evidence.[128][119]Case outcomes and defenses
Several civil lawsuits accusing Trey Songz of sexual misconduct were resolved through settlements without any admission of wrongdoing or via dismissals on procedural grounds, with no criminal convictions resulting from the allegations as of October 2025.[66][129][113] In a 2022 Los Angeles federal case alleging rape from a 2015 incident, the lawsuit was dismissed after Songz's attorneys successfully argued it violated the statute of limitations, as the claim was filed beyond California's three-year window for such actions.[129][124] A battery lawsuit stemming from a 2021 Las Vegas incident resulted in an $11.2 million default judgment against Songz in late 2024, but this was overturned and dismissed by a Clark County judge on January 16, 2025, due to improper service of the summons, allowing Songz to mount a substantive defense.[113][130] Songz reached a confidential settlement in September 2025 for a $20 million lawsuit over an alleged 2018 sexual assault at a Miami nightclub, with the case dismissed by a Florida judge shortly before its scheduled trial; terms did not include any liability acknowledgment.[66][131] An earlier undisclosed settlement occurred in April 2024 for a separate $25 million rape claim, again without admission of guilt.[132] Throughout these proceedings, Songz's legal defenses emphasized procedural defects such as untimely filings and service errors, alongside claims of insufficient evidence and inconsistencies in accuser accounts, as detailed in court motions challenging the merits where defaults were avoided.[67][133] Police investigations into related sexual assault reports, including by the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department in 2022, concluded without charges due to lack of probable cause.[67] These outcomes had limited long-term financial repercussions, as dismissed judgments imposed no payments and settlements remained private, preserving Songz's career trajectory without felony records.[127][130]Discography
Studio albums and chart performance
Trey Songz released eight studio albums from 2005 to 2020, primarily through Atlantic Records, with chart performance peaking in the early 2010s before declining amid broader industry shifts toward streaming-dominated consumption.[134] His debut album, I Gotta Make It (July 26, 2005), entered the Billboard 200 at number 20.[135] Subsequent releases demonstrated commercial growth, as Ready (August 31, 2009) reached number 3 and earned platinum certification from the RIAA for 1 million units sold by June 11, 2014.[136] Passion, Pain & Pleasure (September 14, 2010) debuted at number 2, marking his strongest initial sales period with over 656,000 units moved in the U.S. according to Nielsen SoundScan estimates.[57]| Album | Release Date | Billboard 200 Peak |
|---|---|---|
| I Gotta Make It | July 26, 2005 | 20 |
| Trey Day | October 16, 2007 | 11 |
| Ready | August 31, 2009 | 3 |
| Passion, Pain & Pleasure | September 14, 2010 | 2 |
| Chapter V | August 21, 2012 | 1 |
| Trigga | June 30, 2014 | 1 |
| Tremaine the Album | March 24, 2017 | 3 |
| Back Home | October 9, 2020 | 15 |
Notable singles and certifications
Trey Songz has released 59 singles as lead artist, including 30 as a featured performer, many achieving commercial success through sales, streaming, and radio airplay. His tracks have garnered over 20 entries on the Billboard Hot 100, with several reaching the top 10, driven by R&B and hip-hop crossover appeal.[134] Notable examples include "Bottoms Up" featuring Nicki Minaj, which peaked at number 6 on the Hot 100 in 2010 and holds RIAA multi-platinum certification reflecting over 4 million units by 2016, bolstered by 147 million YouTube views for its official video.[134][139][140] Other standout singles feature similar certifications and chart longevity. "Say Aah" with Fabolous reached number 9 on the Hot 100 in 2009, earning platinum status, while "Can't Help But Wait" hit number 14 in 2007 and also received gold certification.[134][141] "Na Na" peaked at number 6 in 2014, contributing to his string of R&B/hip-hop top performers, and tracks like "Heart Attack" charted at number 35 with associated gold awards for several others including "Touchin, Lovin" and "Neighbors Know My Name."[142][139] Collectively, Songz's singles have accumulated dozens of RIAA gold and platinum certifications, underscoring sustained digital consumption.[141]| Single | Billboard Hot 100 Peak | RIAA Certification | Release Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bottoms Up (feat. Nicki Minaj) | 6 | 4× Platinum (2016) | 2010 |
| Say Aah (feat. Fabolous) | 9 | Platinum | 2009 |
| Can't Help But Wait | 14 | Gold | 2007 |
| Na Na | 6 | Platinum | 2014 |
| Heart Attack | 35 | Gold | 2012 |
Live performances
Concert tours
Trey Songz launched his first major headlining tour, the Anticipation 2our, in 2012 to promote his mixtape Anticipation II, featuring rapper Big Sean as support. The tour ran from February 9 to March 11 across North American venues.[147] Earlier promotional efforts in 2009 tied to his album Ready included multi-city stops for radio events and listening parties, though not structured as a full headlining trek. In 2010, Songz co-headlined the Passion, Pain & Pleasure Tour with Monica, commencing August 6 at the Municipal Auditorium in Shreveport, Louisiana, and concluding September 17 at New York's Beacon Theatre. The outing supported his album of the same name and spanned over 40 dates in mid-sized arenas.[148] The 2010s marked Songz's peak touring period with additional headliners like the 2012 Gotta Make It Tour, 2015 Bittersweet Tour, and 2017 Tremaine the Tour, the latter a theater-focused run starting May 3 in Detroit and covering major U.S. cities through early June.[149] These efforts drew strong attendance in venues seating 3,000 to 5,000, bolstered by fan club perks through Angel's Flight, including meet-and-greets and exclusive access. Box office data from joint ventures, such as the 2014-2015 Between the Sheets Tour with Chris Brown, grossed $29 million in the U.S., reflecting Songz's draw in R&B circuits. Post-2020, amid ongoing legal scrutiny, Songz reduced large-scale headlining tours, opting for selective festival slots and shorter residencies over multi-month outings.[149]Residencies and special appearances
Trey Songz initiated a Las Vegas residency at Drai's Nightclub at The Cromwell on August 8, 2019, featuring high-energy R&B sets that drew crowds for their intimate yet explosive atmosphere.[150] [151] The series included multiple dates through late 2019, such as September 28, October 11, October 26, November 15, and December 7, with performances emphasizing fan interaction and seductive vocals amid club lighting and poolside vibes during daytime shows at Drai's Swim.[152] He returned for standalone high-engagement appearances, including a Labor Day weekend concert on September 3, 2022, noted for its full-length intensity and crowd responsiveness, and a March 29, 2024, set praised for memorable energy.[153] [154] In 2025, Songz delivered an intimate studio performance for SiriusXM's Fishbowl on August 15, celebrating the 20th anniversary of his debut album I Gotta Make It (2005) with a live audience sing-along format focused on acoustic renditions and personal reflections.[155] [156] This one-off event, promoted through The Flow channel, highlighted stripped-down tracks and fan participation, later shared via video clips emphasizing the "assignment-knowing" crowd's enthusiasm.[157] Songz has featured in special award show slots, such as his 2017 BET Awards medley of "Animal" and "Nobody Else But You," which showcased flirtatious stage presence and received backstage acclaim for its R&B authenticity.[158] [159] For charity, he headlined the Angels with Heart Foundation benefit concert on November 25, 2011, at Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City, live-streamed for a $5 donation to support the cause, blending hits with philanthropic appeals.[104] [160] Amid 2020 lockdowns, Songz adapted via virtual formats, including Instagram Live streams on April 22 and a standalone performance of "How Many Times" on June 13 for the Equal Justice Initiative, streamed to raise awareness and funds during social unrest.[161] [162] He extended this with a free Rise Up NYC concert in August 2025, another 20th-anniversary nod to I Gotta Make It, prioritizing accessible, no-ticket-barrier engagement.[163] These events consistently drew reviews for sustained crowd energy, with attendees noting Songz's ability to foster responsive, high-participation vibes in non-arena settings.[164]Acting and media
Film roles
Trey Songz made his film acting debut in the 2010 Christian drama Preacher's Kid, directed by Stan Foster and loosely based on the Parable of the Prodigal Son, portraying the supporting character Monty in a story centered on a preacher's rebellious daughter. His performance drew positive notes for charisma in a limited role, contributing to the film's ensemble alongside actors like LeToya Luckett and Tank.[165] The independent production emphasized thematic elements of faith and redemption but achieved modest commercial release with limited box office data available. In 2013, Songz appeared in two higher-profile films. He played Ryan, the love interest to the lead character in Texas Chainsaw 3D, a horror sequel directed by John Luessenhop that served as a direct follow-up to the 1974 original, grossing $21.7 million in its opening weekend on a $20 million budget.[166] Critics highlighted his appeal to younger audiences as a casting choice to broaden the film's draw, though some observed inexperience in the genre's intensity.[167] Later that year, he portrayed Damon Diesel, a romantic lead, in the romantic comedy Baggage Claim, directed by David E. Talbert and starring Paula Patton, where his character featured in key interpersonal dynamics amid a plot about a flight attendant's quest for commitment.[168] Songz's subsequent film work included the 2018 crime drama Blood Brother, directed by John David Coles, in which he played Sonny, a figure entangled in a narrative of loyalty and violence. Overall, his cinematic output remains sparse, with four credited feature roles prioritizing his primary focus on music releases over extensive acting pursuits, and reception often acknowledging natural screen presence tempered by novice technique rather than standout dramatic range.[169] Box office contributions across projects were secondary to ensemble or genre-driven successes, reflecting transitional efforts into film without sustained commitment.[170]Television and other media appearances
Songz guest-starred on the BET sitcom The Game in an episode that aired on January 22, 2013, featuring interactions with cast members including Hosea Chanchez.[171] He performed as himself on Showtime at the Apollo across two episodes in 2006 and 2007, delivering live R&B sets to theater audiences.[172] On BET's 106 & Park, Songz appeared in a May 22, 2007, episode alongside host Julissa Bermudez, participating in promotional segments tied to his early music releases.[173] As a musical guest, he performed on Jimmy Kimmel Live! during episode #9.39, which aired on October 5, 2010, promoting tracks from his album Passion, Pain & Pleasure. Songz featured in the BET special The BET Life of Trey Songz, a retrospective aired around 2017 that highlighted his career trajectory from debut to platinum success.[174] In non-scripted media, Songz has appeared on talk formats discussing R&B's blend with hip-hop, as in a 2011 interview segment on the genre's evolution toward rap-infused sounds.[74] He guested on The Breakfast Club in November 2014, addressing music industry dynamics and single promotion for "Na Na" from Trigga, with the interview garnering over 1 million YouTube views.[175] These television and media spots, often averaging 1-3 million viewers for music-oriented programs like 106 & Park in its peak years, served primarily to amplify his recording career rather than establish him as a primary television personality.[173]Recognition
Awards and nominations
Trey Songz has received three nominations for the Grammy Awards, spanning 2008 to 2013, but has not won in any category.[176] His first nomination came at the 50th Annual Grammy Awards for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance for "Can't Help But Wait."[177] The second, at the 51st Annual Grammy Awards, was for Best Contemporary R&B Album for Ready.[14] The third, at the 55th Annual Grammy Awards, recognized "Heart Attack" in the Best R&B Song category.[178] At the BET Awards, Songz secured one win for Best Male R&B Artist in 2010, amid multiple nominations including Best Collaboration for "Say Aah" that year.[4][179] He has accumulated at least 11 BET Award nominations overall since 2008, with two wins reported in the organization's history for him, though specifics beyond the 2010 category remain tied to R&B artist recognition.[177] Songz has fared better at the Soul Train Awards, winning Best R&B/Soul or Male Artist twice: in 2010 and 2014.[180] He received additional nominations there, such as for Song of the Year in 2011 for "Heart Attack."[17]| Award Ceremony | Wins | Nominations | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grammy Awards | 0 | 3 (2008–2013) | Focused on R&B vocal and album categories during peak album releases like Ready (2009) and Passion, Pain & Pleasure (2010).[176] |
| BET Awards | 2 | 11+ (since 2008) | Peak wins and nods aligned with 2009–2012 commercial breakthroughs.[177] |
| Soul Train Awards | 2 | Multiple (2010–2015) | Emphasized male R&B/soul artist honors.[180][17] |
