R&B singer-songwriter Ne-Yo is a father – for the first time – now that his girlfriend, Monyetta Shaw, went into early labor Friday night and had a baby girl, a rep for the singer confirms to PEOPLE.
The baby’s name is Madilyn Grace Smith. “I’ve been in love before but this feels like nothing I’ve ever felt,” said Ne-Yo. “Like I’m in love for the first time.”
The birth took place in an Atlanta hospital. The baby had been due in January.
Ne-Yo, 28, was at a charity event for his foundation when word reached him that Shaw’s time had arrived, reported an Atlanta radio station. Even so, the new dad made it to the hospital to witness the birth.
Also due this month: Ne-Yo’s brand new album, Libra Scale, from Def Jam Recordings, in stores Nov. 22.