Nelly is opening up about his music career and about how tough the competition was in his era of music. He also took the time to shed light on him being snubbed by the Grammys.
While making an appearance on the season 7 premiere of The Shop. In a promo clip posted to their Instagram, the rapper reflected on not being nominated for Best New Artist at the Grammys. “Country Grammar was 5 Million and I didn’t even get nominated as a best new artist because my album came out in 2000 so I wasn’t even on the ballot in 2001. The great talented, well-deserving, Alicia Keys won and she should’ve won in 2001.”
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He continued, “You gotta understand my era of music was the toughest era in hip-hop ever! When I put out songs I had to go against DMX, Jay-Z, Eminem, Lil Wayne, 50 Cent, and Ludacris. All of us are fighting for one spot. So from 99’ to 2008..2010 it was the hardest era ever,” he said.
Nelly’s career began in 1993 when he formed the hip-hop group St. Lunatics with his friends. The group released their debut album, “Free City,” in 2001, which featured the hit single “Midwest Swing.” But it was Nelly’s solo career that truly launched him into superstardom.
In 2000, Nelly released his debut solo album, “Country Grammar,” which was a massive success. The album went on to sell over 8 million copies in the United States alone and spawned several hit singles, including the title track and “Ride Wit Me.” Nelly’s unique blend of hip-hop and pop sensibilities helped him stand out in a crowded music industry, and he quickly became one of the biggest stars in the genre.
Nelly followed up the success of “Country Grammar” with even more hit albums, including “Nellyville” in 2002 and “Sweat” and “Suit” in 2004. These albums produced hits like “Hot in Herre,” “Dilemma” (featuring Kelly Rowland), and “Over and Over” (featuring Tim McGraw). Nelly’s crossover appeal helped him reach a wide audience and solidify his status as a music icon.
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In addition to his music career, Nelly has also found success in other ventures. He has appeared in several films, including “The Longest Yard” and “Reach Me,” and has had his own reality TV show, “Nellyville.” Nelly has also been involved in philanthropic efforts, including his work with the Make-A-Wish Foundation and his own charity, the 4Sho4Kids Foundation.
Despite facing some legal troubles in recent years, including a 2015 arrest on drug charges, Nelly has continued to make music and perform for his fans. He released his latest album, “Heartland,” in 2021 and has been touring and performing live shows around the world.
Nelly’s career has been marked by success and longevity, as he has remained a prominent figure in the music industry for over two decades.