Single Battle: Chris Brown's Forever v.s. Ne-Yo's Closer

It's very funny how closely linked these two are.

Both Chris Brown and Ne-Yo came out around the same time. Both had #1 singles that were virtually inescapable. Both had successful albums released. They even toured together.

Now, they both have dance-pop singles out, released THE EXACT SAME DAY!

Coincidence? You decide.

Anyway, both seem to be capitalizing on the surprising success of Rihanna's "Don't Stop The Music" with their new singles. Chris Brown's song "Forever" was released in support of the Deluxe Edition of his platinum-selling album Exclusive. Ne-Yo's single "Closer" is the lead of his new album, The Year of the Gentleman. So, which single is worth the 99 cents?

First off is Chris Brown. It makes sense that the R&B prince would take a different approach after his extremely successful ballad "With You". Instead of going for the typical R&B/Hip-Hop uptempo song with an appearance from either T-Pain or someone else, he goes it alone on this dance song. It starts off with a synth melody, then quickly breaks with the beat. The beat in infectious, almost forcing you to dance. Honestly, Chris's voice is rather inconsequential; its all about the music. If you actually paid attention to the lyrics and his singing, its still good. Its very pop, without jumping that annoying line into bubblegum. Since its already #3 on iTunes, it seems to be another hit for Brown. Rating: 8/10

Onto Ne-Yo. This song is extremely experimental, and its a better song for it. It begins with this guitar riff, leading into a beat where Ne-Yo whispers "Closer". Then, a softer guitar comes in. Then a beat and a slightly annoying squeak mixes in. Then comes the claps. Everything melts into one sound when the song hits the chorus. You would think that all of those sounds would be distracting, but they're not. In fact, it makes the song cool, both as a club smash and an iPod-buster. Ne-Yo said he wanted to try new things with the song, and he certainly did not disappoint. Rating: 9/10

Now comes the question, which is better: Ne-Yo's or Chris's?

If you simply want a song to dance to, then go with Forever. It is a great club song that will easily blow up, but those looking for something fresh and new won't really find much.

Those looking for a fresh sound she go with Closer. It's not only a great dance song, but it is also experimental and cool. For this song alone, I would check out his new album come June.

Overall, I say Ne-Yo wins this single battle.

Both songs are available on iTunes. "Forever" will be on the front page, but you'll have to look for "Closer" in Ne-Yo's artist page.