Now that social distancing is the new norm, a handful of popular musicians are taking to Instagram Live to battle each other with their respective greatest hits. The latest duo to step into the proverbial ring are Ne-Yo and Johntá Austin.
Ne-Yo first asked his followers if they wanted to see the songwriters battle, writing on his Instagram Story, “Anybody wanna see me and @therealjohntaaustin go at it tonight??”
Austin responded to the tweet, writing, “Y’all requested. My brother & I will oblige. Great night ahead!”
He also shared the ground rules for the challenge, a bit about his respect for Ne-Yo as a songwriter, and said that he's preparing his playlist.
Ne-Yo is known for notable songs like 2008’s “Miss Independent” and “Closer,” and 2012’s “Let Me Love You (Until You Learn to Love Yourself).” Austin is credited as a songwriter on reputable tracks like Mariah Carey’s 2005 cut “We Belong Together,” Mary J. Blige’s “Be Without You” (2005), Aaliyah’s “Miss You” (2002), and more.
It looks like Ne-Yo tuned into Sean Garrett and The-Dream's battle on Saturday night. He called their battle “dope” on his Instagram Story before posing the idea of his own battle to his fans.
Watch Ne-Yo and Austin do battle now.
