BIOGRAPHY
Nelly, born Cornell Iral Haynes Jr. on November 2, 1974, is an American rapper, singer, songwriter, and entrepreneur. Hailing from St. Louis, Missouri, Nelly achieved widespread fame and success in the early 2000s with his distinctive Southern-influenced hip-hop sound and crossover appeal.
Nelly's debut album, "Country Grammar" (2000), became a massive commercial success, reaching the top of the charts and spawning hit singles like "Country Grammar (Hot Shit)," "Ride wit Me," and "E.I." The album's success established Nelly as a prominent figure in the hip-hop scene.
His follow-up album, "Nellyville" (2002), was equally successful and featured chart-topping hits such as "Hot in Herre" and "Dilemma" featuring Kelly Rowland. The latter earned Nelly a Grammy Award for Best Rap/Sung Collaboration. "Nellyville" solidified his status as a mainstream rap superstar.
Nelly continued to release successful albums, including "Sweat" (2004) and "Suit" (2004), which were released as a double album. The project showcased Nelly's versatility, with "Sweat" focusing on more energetic and club-oriented tracks, while "Suit" explored a smoother, R&B-influenced sound.
Over the years, Nelly has maintained a presence in the music industry with albums like "Brass Knuckles" (2008), "5.0" (2010), and "M.O." (2013). He is known for collaborating with artists from various genres, contributing to his crossover success.
In addition to his music career, Nelly has ventured into acting, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy. He has appeared in films and television shows, and his business ventures include a clothing line called Apple Bottoms.
Nelly's impact on the hip-hop industry, particularly during the early 2000s, is significant. He played a crucial role in bringing Southern hip-hop to the mainstream and has left a lasting legacy in the genre.