Nelly
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About Nelly
For over two decades, Nelly has been a trailblazing force in music and entertainment, blending genres like hip-hop and country, and achieving double-diamond status, three Grammys, and countless chart-topping hits. Known for iconic anthems like "Hot in Herre" and "Dilemma," collaborations with artists from Tim McGraw to Florida Georgia Line, and ventures in fashion (Apple Bottoms), beverages (MoShine), and television, Nelly continues to innovate.
As an entrepreneur, Nelly launched Apple Bottoms fashion line as the first “inclusive” Jean line to cater to women of all shapes and sizes. He has recently just launched the new generation of Apple Bottoms once again trailblazing with new stretch technology and modern styles to embrace women of all sizes. From Grammy performances to brand partnerships, he remains a global icon while supporting philanthropic causes like Make-A-Wish and scholarships for aspiring musicians.
Nelly
Nelly is a rapper and singer known for blending hip-hop with strong hooks, Southern drawl, and Midwestern twang. His accessible, radio-ready style helped bring St. Louis rap to a wider audience and made him a major crossover presence in the 2000s.1
Nelly’s catalog moves between rap, R&B, pop, and country influences. He has remained associated with many top hits, including Ride Wit Me, Hot in Herre, Dilemma, and Just a Dream. He is a three-time Grammy Award winner and continues to be recognized for a sound built for both rap fans and a broad pop audience.1,2
Find Nelly tickets on AXS and experience his music live.
Nelly’s Background
Nelly was born as Cornell Iral Haynes Jr. in Austin, Texas. He spent his formative years in St. Louis, where he formed the St. Lunatics with his local friends as a teenager. The group included Ali, Murphy Lee, City Spud, and Kyjuan, and independently released Gimmie What You Got, which became a regional hit. However, the group struggled to secure a record deal.1
The group eventually decided Nelly should pursue a solo career first, believing it would create opportunities for the other members as well. Universal signed him to a solo deal in 1999, and he released his first album, Country Grammar, in 2000. The album’s early success established the foundation for his long-lasting recording career.1
Nelly’s Awards
Nelly’s recognition reflects the broad reach of his rap, R&B, and pop crossover catalog. His work became a major part of early-2000s mainstream music, earning honors that recognized his music’s commercial and cultural impact.
- Grammy Award - Best Melodic Rap Performance (2003): Nelly and Kelly Rowland won the Grammy Award for Best Melodic Rap Performance for Dilemma, their crossover duet from Nellyville.2
- Grammy Award - Best Male Rap Solo Performance (2003): Nelly won Best Male Rap Solo Performance for his chart-topping single Hot in Herre from his album Nellyville.2
- BET Hip Hop Award - I Am Hip Hop Award (2021): Nelly received the I Am Hip Hop Award in recognition of his long-running contributions to hip-hop and his role in bringing a Midwest perspective to mainstream rap.3
Nelly’s Biggest Hits
Nelly’s biggest hits combine rap verses and R&B-influenced production. They helped define his crossover sound and made him a consistent presence across hip-hop, pop, and R&B.
- Country Grammar (Hot Shit) (2000): Nelly’s breakout single, Country Grammar (Hot Shit), introduced his distinctive vocal style and helped make his debut album, Country Grammar, a major release.1
- Hot in Herre (2002): Hot in Herre was produced by the Neptunes and was released on his album, Nellyville. It’s one of Nelly’s signature hits and earned him a Grammy Award for Best Male Rap Solo Performance.1,2
- Dilemma (2002): Dilemma, featuring Kelly Rowland, is a duet from Nellyville and is known for blending rap and R&B sounds. This track won a Grammy Award for Best Melodic Rap Performance.1,2
See Nelly Live
Nelly’s live shows draw from his catalog of rap, R&B, pop, and country-influenced material, reflecting the crossover approach that has helped shape his recording career. His performances often include songs that span his early breakthrough hits and later releases.1,4
Get Nelly tickets on AXS and experience his music live.