5 Fun Facts About Nelly
Nelly is a multi-platinum selling rapper who emerged on the music scene in the early 2000s. Known for his catchy hooks, smooth flow, and signature country twang, Nelly quickly rose to fame with hit songs like Hot in Herre, Dilemma, Country Grammer (Hot Shit), Air Force Ones, Shake Ya Tailfeather, Grillz, Over and Over, My Place and Ride wit Me. His style of music blends hip-hop, R&B, and pop, creating a sound that has resonated with fans across the globe. Nelly has won numerous awards, including three Grammy Awards, four American Music Awards, and two Billboard Music Awards. He signed to Universal Records in 1999 to start his solo career. In 2009 he was ranked number 3 Top Artist of the Decade. With over 20 million albums sold worldwide, Nelly has become one of the most successful and influential rappers of his generation, paving the way for future hip-hop artists with his unique style and infectious energy.
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1. Origin
Nelly was born in Texas, but he started his music career in St. Louis, Missouri with a group called St. Lunatics. This was a hip hop group made up of childhood friends. They were active from 1993-2010, but Nelly went solo in 1999. He didn’t just leave the group hangin’! He left with their support. Those are some good friends.
2. Name change!
So many musicians go by a different name than their birth name and Nelly is no different! Nelly isn’t his real name! His real name is Cornell Iral Haynes Jr. Nelly is a nickname that originates from Cornell.
3. Quick Success
Nellys second solo record, Nellyville, found quick success! It hit the top spot on 10 different billboard charts in 2002. It went platinum 6 times. The song “Hot in Herre” took a Grammy in 2003 and was followed by several career awards.