Chicago R&B star R. Kelly's tour promoter is facing a lawsuit from hip hop artist Ne-Yo, who claims he was fired as Kelly's opening act because the audience and critics liked him better.

Ne-Yo and Compound Touring Incorporated sued Georgia-based Rowe Entertainment Incorporated on Monday in Superior Court. The lawsuit alleges breach of contract and violation of the right of publicity. It seeks unspecified damages.

Kelly wasn't named as a defendant in the lawsuit.

A statement on Rowe Entertainment's Web site says the lineup change came about because the company couldn't obtain a "final, fully executed contract" from Ne-Yo's agent.

The lawsuit claims Ne-Yo was fired from Kelly's "Double-Up Tour" after two shows.

A statement released by a representative of Kelly said it was the promoter's decision to drop Ne-Yo from the tour.

Source: WQAD