Nelly came through and crushed the building over the weekend. The rapper decided to pull up to the annual MGK Day celebration in Cleveland and treat fans to a medley of his biggest hits. The decision wasn’t publicized, but what made Nelly’s appearance even more surprising was the legal trouble he’s recently been involved in. Nelly was arrested in his native St. Louis on a pre-existing traffic charge. He was subsequently released, and appears to be in high spirits.
Fans were thrilled to see Nelly, but it looked like MGK was the most stoked person at the venue. He posted a video of the rapper’s performance and wrote “Nelly just pulled up wtfff” on Instagram. He appeared awestruck while Nelly performed classic hits like “Air Force Ones” and “Grillz.” MGK even made reference to the former song on Twitter. “I should’ve worn my all whites and threw in the colored fat laces,” he quipped. The show got even better when MGK stopped the music and shared a personal anecdote about Nelly with the crowd.
“The first concert I ever went to, you were opening up for Destiny’s Child,” MGK told Nelly. “And you played ‘Rid wit Me’ and money came from the ceiling with your face on it. And I was in fifth grade so I picked it up and thought it was real.” MGK then praised the St. Louis rapper for the impact he’s had on hip-hop. “You don’t know what you mean to me in this journey,” he added. “It’s so inspiring, thank you for coming.” Nelly showed love back via social media. “I hit the jackpot with MGK,” he wrote on his IG Story. “No arrest, just good vibes.”
The caption made light of the circumstances in which Nelly was arrested. The rapper was arrested at a casino when a background check revealed an outstanding traffic arrest warrant. He was subsequently taken into custody and escorted out of the casino. According to the Daily Beast, however, there was a silver lining. The rapper managed to win $30K on the jackpot slots prior to his arrest. It was his attempt to collect his winnings, in fact, that led to the background check in the first place.
This week, rapper Nelly found himself trouble after being arrested on drug possession charges in St. Louis. The arrest took place inside the Hollywood Casino in St. Charles, Missouri, and has sparked controversy, with Nelly’s attorney accusing a police officer of unfairly targeting the rapper.
According to Page Six, the incident occurred after law enforcement conducted a background check on Nelly, whose real name is Cornell Haynes Jr. The check revealed an outstanding warrant for failing to provide proof of insurance from a previous traffic stop. This routine verification is reportedly a standard procedure for Missouri casinos, in compliance with the state’s gaming commission regulations.
However, Nelly’s lawyer, Scott Rosenblum, claims that the situation was handled improperly. In an exclusive statement to Page Six, Rosenblum alleged that the rapper was “targeted by an overzealous, out of line officer” who went beyond the necessary protocol.
“After winning several jackpots at a venue where Mr. Haynes frequently visits and entertains at its amphitheater, instead of just supervising the transfer of Mr. Haynes’ winnings, this officer felt compelled to needlessly run a check for warrants,” Rosenblum said.
The arrest has raised questions about the circumstances surrounding the incident and whether Nelly was unjustly singled out by the authorities. Rosenblum’s statement suggests that Nelly, a regular performer and visitor at the casino, was subjected to undue scrutiny, leading to his arrest on charges that might otherwise have been avoided.
As the case unfolds, Nelly’s legal team is expected to challenge the actions of the police officer involved, potentially raising broader concerns about how law enforcement handles high-profile individuals.
Ashanti is in a good mood. The R&B singer took to Instagram to celebrate her mom’s birthday. She posed alongside her mother and various members of her family for a “special night.” The timing of Ashanti’s post was not lost on the internet, though. While the singer was living it up with her family, her husband, Nelly, was being locked up. The rapper was taken into custody on traffic charges the morning of August 7. Fans were shocked by the radically different headlines these two artists prompted. Especially given the way they were shared on social media.
Ashanti has not commented on Nelly’s arrest. Instead, she praised her mother and the recapped the night that she had. “Recap mom’s bday,” she wrote. “This was such a special night. Happy birthday again mom. I love you more than anything.” Ashanti wrote that the date in which the celebration went down was on July 13, so it didn’t actually occur the same night Nelly was taken into custody. Still, the decision to not address the legal elephant in the room seems intentional on the singer’s part.
Nelly was taken into custody at 4:45 am on Wednesday morning. The rapper was initially arrested on a failure-to-appear warrant that went back to a St. Louis traffic charge. After he was arrested, though, the local authorities discovered the rapper had four ecstasy pills on his person. NBC reports that Nelly was subsequently released by Maryland police. The rapper’s lawyer, Scott Rosenblum, issued a statement picking apart the character of the arresting officer. Rosenblum claimed that Nelly was “targeted by an overzealous, out of line officer” who “paraded him through the casino.” The lawyer also asserted that Nelly was not ultimately charged with drug possession.
Ashanti and Nelly have been romantically involved for decades. The two initially dated in the 2000s, before reuniting in 2023. The second time proved the charm, and the artists had a child before tying the knot in December of the same year. “The growth has been like superb, you know, like on both ends,” the singer told Entertainment Tonight. “We are both at a place where like before, sometimes we would argue and walk out, slam the door, and not talk for a few days.” Ashanti will no doubt help Nelly get through this latest ordeal.
Nelly had been basking in good news over the past year-plus. The iconic St. Louis rapper reconciled with Ashanti, with whom he had a high-profile relationship in the early 2000s, and they may or may not be married. In April, Ashanti did publicly confirm that she and Nelly are expecting their first child together.
But it’s not all roses.
As first reported by KRCG, Nelly was arrested around 4:45 a.m. on Wednesday morning, August 7, in the St. Louis, Missouri area.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol later confirmed details to TMZ, as excerpted below:
“The agency has a gaming division, with troopers stationed at the Hollywood Casino in St. Charles. Nelly was asked to show his ID to police and his info was run for verification in accordance with Missouri Gaming Commission regulations.
Police found Nelly had an active warrant for no insurance from a previous traffic stop conducted by Maryland Heights Police. Nelly was arrested for the active warrant, and he was searched. That’s when four ecstasy pills were found on his person, according to the Highway Patrol.
Nelly was booked for felony drug possession and on a warrant for no vehicle insurance.”
TMZ additionally reported that Nelly was “booked at the Maryland Heights Police Department,” and he has been released. Nelly’s mugshot can be seen within TMZ’s report.
As of this writing, Nelly has not publicly commented on the matter.
Emerging from St. Louis, Missouri, in the early 2000s, Nelly (born Cornell Iral Haynes Jr.) crafted a distinctive sound that merged hip-hop with pop-friendly hooks. His debut album, Country Grammar, released in 2000, combines Southern edge and universal mainstream appeal. The album sold over 8.4 million copies in America alone and earned diamond certification. In this crowded hip-hop landscape where catchy beats and sing-along choruses reign supreme is what Nelly was all about.
Further, Nelly has often been responsible for producing hit single after hit single that appeals to millions worldwide. He has always stayed relevant by making music that could be played on the radio but still has its roots deeply planted in hip-hop culture. For over two decades now, Nelly has been commercially successful and influenced a whole generation of artists who want seamless genre mixing in their music. Here are five essential songs that will give you an idea about what kind of influence Nelly had on music and how he developed as an artist himself.
1. “Country Grammar” (Hot Sh*t) (2000)
The song “Country Grammar (Hot Sh*t)” put Nelly on the map, making it his entry into the mainstream. It was released as the first single from his debut album in 2000 and quickly climbed the charts. The single went to No. 7 on Billboard Hot 100. The song’s catchy hook and confident delivery summed up his unique style. Its production laid down a template for Nelly’s signature sound with its trademark beat and infectious chorus.
“Country Grammar” also successfully positioned Nelly after selling millions of copies while establishing himself as a solo artist. This song became an anthem of summer and a staple in radio stations across America. Its funny yet streetwise lyrics and ear-catching melody were enjoyed by all walks of life and made it a massive hit amongst them all. This track demonstrated Nelly’s skill at crafting commercially viable hip-hop songs without losing their essence. It was this track where he revealed his knack for creating tunes that appealed to both mass audiences and rap’s roots.
2. “Hot in Herre” (2002)
In his second album, Nellyville, the hit “Hot in Herre” is probably Nelly’s most identifiable song. In 2002, this single became a cultural institution as it swept over the airwaves. Due to the song’s irresistible vibe and hard-to-forget lyrics, it gained the No. 1 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 charts for seven uninterrupted weeks, making Nelly an important figure in rap.
Its production was vital to its success, with The Neptunes producing “Hot In Herre.” As much as this funky rhythmic beat by The Neptunes was all about the fun mood of the early 2000s, Nelly’s charismatic delivery made it an anthem. It is worth noting that these playful and suggestive words boosted its popularity. This made Nelly a diverse artist who could compose chart-topping songs across genres appreciated by different walks of life.
A single from Nelly’s second album, “Dilemma” was released in 2002 and featured Kelly Rowland. It is also his most popular and long-lasting hit song. This track is a sad departure from the rapper’s normal party anthems. The duet displays Nelly’s vulnerability by combining rap with R&B into a classic love ballad. Spending ten weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, it was among the year’s best-selling singles and earned him his first Grammy Award for Best Rap/Sung Collaboration.
The success of this song can be mainly attributed to Nelly and Kelly Rowland’s undeniable chemistry. Their voices blend so well that they sound like they were made for each other. It tells a story about complicated love and longing through lyrics full of genuine emotion that reverberate. Therefore, we can say without any doubt that “Dillema” will always be considered among the most significant hits from Nelly. It proves how versatile he is when it comes to creating music that cuts across different genres.
4. “Ride Wit Me” (2001)
Also from Country Grammar, “Ride Wit Me” is one of Nelly’s most popular songs. It quickly became an anthem for driving around aimlessly and having fun. It once again showed that Nelly was good at making happy music that everyone could enjoy. The chorus of this track features the unforgettable line “Hey, must be the money!” It wasn’t surprising when the song reached No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and established Nelly as a significant figure in early 2000s rap.
The smoothness of its production gives “Ride wit Me” a relaxed vibe to go with Nelly’s flow and down-to-earth lyrics about enjoying oneself. It’s also bright and summery, which made it perfect for radio airplay or party playlists. This also helped it contribute even further towards achieving multi-platinum status for Country Grammar. This record represents what can happen when you mix catchy melodies with elements from hip-hop because it attracted both hardcore rap fans as well as mainstream listenership. So many people still love this track – it just goes to show how much influence Nelly had on music during that time!
5. “Just A Dream” (2010)
“Just a Dream,” released in 2010 as the lead single from Nelly’s sixth studio album, 5.0, marked a significant comeback for the artist. This introspective track diverges from Nelly’s typical party anthems, exploring themes of love and regret. The song became a commercial success, reaching No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning platinum certification, reaffirming Nelly’s relevance in the evolving music terrain.
The song’s reflective lyrics also resonated with a broad audience, showcasing Nelly’s versatility and depth. Combining melodic piano and driving beats, the production provided a poignant backdrop for Nelly’s lost love and longing narrative. “Just a Dream” highlighted Nelly’s ability to evolve with changing musical trends while staying true to his unique style. This track is a testament to his enduring talent and ability to connect with listeners personally.
In a heartwarming and stylish celebration, rapper Nelly planned the ultimate surprise baby shower for his wife, Ashanti, leaving her completely stunned. The “Hot in Here” artist orchestrated the event at the luxurious Dolce & Gabbana baby boutique in New York City, creating a memorable moment for the expectant mother.
A Stunning Surprise
As the couple stepped off the elevator, Ashanti was greeted by an enthusiastic chorus of “surprise” from her closest friends and family. The singer, who believed she was arriving for a photoshoot, was visibly taken aback by the unexpected celebration.
“Oh my god, I thought I was coming to a photoshoot,” she exclaimed in a reshared Instagram Story on July 1. “I’m in shock. Thank you guys so much, I love you guys, I appreciate you. Thank you.”
Nelly, dressed in a sleek black polo shirt and matching black pants, stood proudly beside his wife. Ashanti looked radiant in a yellow Dolce & Gabbana skirt and bra top set, perfectly matching the elegance of the occasion.
An Outpouring of Love
The intimate gathering at the Dolce & Gabbana boutique was a testament to the couple’s close-knit circle and the love surrounding them. The boutique’s opulent setting provided a perfect backdrop for the joyous event, filled with laughter, hugs, and heartfelt moments.
Nelly’s thoughtful planning and Ashanti’s genuine reaction highlighted the deep bond between the couple. The surprise baby shower not only celebrated the upcoming arrival of their baby but also underscored the couple’s love and support for each other.
A Memorable Celebration
The event was captured and shared on social media, allowing fans and followers to partake in the couple’s joy. The surprise shower is a beautiful chapter in Nelly and Ashanti’s journey as they prepare to welcome their new addition.
As the evening unfolded, it was clear that Nelly’s gesture had created a lasting memory for Ashanti and their loved ones. The couple’s stylish appearance and the joyous atmosphere made the surprise baby shower a standout moment, reflecting their vibrant personalities and the excitement of their growing family.
My favorite part is when Nelly stated during his speech, “As long as she’s smiling….”
Congrats to the happy couple.
“As long as she’s smiling and happy, that’s all that matters!” I know that’s right Nelly, Ashanti deserves it!! I can’t help but to smile when I see these two together. pic.twitter.com/lmqBIdj8wF
In the middle of his tour with Janet Jackson Nelly took the time out to throwing Ashanti a surprise baby shower and Dolce & Gabbana hosted it. awwww she was so surprised! I’m so happy for them!! pic.twitter.com/6shMuXSS5k
On this day in Hip Hop history, St. Louis rap icon Nelly released his Grammy debut LP Country Grammar. Released by Universal Records, the unique pop-rap-country sound of this project struck well with consumers and critics alike peaking at #1 on both the Billboard 200 and Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop charts.
Whether it was intended or not, this album set the bar high for all other summertime albums to come in the new millennium. This mixture of Jason “Jay E” Epperson’s production and Nelly’s Missouri slang proved to be the perfect formula for a high energy album hosting some of the decade’s hottest party tracks.
The sing-along appeal of this project is what brought it so much commercial success. Along with topping the US music charts, this album also made chart appearances in Australia, Belgium, Canada, the Netherlands, Denmark, Finland, France, New Zealand, Norway, Switzerland, and the UK. The album was also certified platinum in Australia, Canada, New Zealand and of course the United States (where it sold 9,000,000 copies).
The album contained hit singles “Country Grammar” (which was nominated for a Grammy), “E.I.,” “Ride Wit Me” and “Batter Up” which all made international music chart appearances. Critics across the board hailed this album as a breakthrough in Hip Hop, never before had a project come from the Midwest with so much appeal to other regions of the country.
Following this album, Nelly grew to be one of the brightest stars of the 2000’s putting out multiple multi-platinum albums and winning a plethora of awards for his musical ability. He has also since had a successful career on-screen both in films and on television.
April brought some big news: Ashanti confirmed that after she and Nelly rekindled their relationship, the two were engaged and expecting a child. Well, it looks like the story may actually be deeper than that.
According to a TMZ report today (June 19) that cites “public records,” the two are actually already legally married, and their marriage date is listed as December 27, 2023.
The document apparently doesn’t note the city in which the two got married, but it was supposedly in St. Louis County, which would suggest that the wedding was likely in Nelly’s St. Louis hometown.
The two do not appear to have had a wedding ceremony yet, so if the report is accurate, perhaps they wanted to get the legal aspect of the marriage done and take their time planning a ceremony.
Meanwhile, Ashanti just told Entertainment Tonight about Nelly’s surprise proposal, revealing that it was a “beautiful, intimate moment” at home.
It was a surprise, but she wasn’t caught totally off guard, saying, “I felt like it was gonna come soon. I didn’t know when. And the way that it happened was just so funny.”
As for the wedding date, that’s not currently clear, as Ashanti said, “We’re both extremely busy, obviously with the baby coming, everything else takes the back seat.”
Nelly has shown his support for his hometown by participating in the St. Louis Cardinals’ unveiling of their new City Connect jersey. The team will play in red for the first time in its 142-year existence during a regular-season game. The MLB team in his hometown selected the rapper to appear in a video announcing the special edition jersey. The video, which debuted on Monday, May 20, contains a monologue from one of St. Louis’ most well-known sons that personifies his local pride. It is set to the 2000 breakthrough smash “Country Grammar” by Nelly.
“You know where you can find me? You can find me in the Gateway City, where we welcome you to a monumental view of our hometown,” he says in the video. Nelly continued, “Expressive, creative, innovative. A town teeming with music, surrounded by soul, generated by jazz and blues. A home for Hip Hop with rock ‘n’ roll roots. A culinary hot spot with slices squared, custard concrete and ravioli toasted.” Overall, Nelly was the perfect person to introduce the new jerseys.
In the promotional video, Nelly continues, saying, “A city built to brew and destined to deliver. Where aspirations stay afloat and spirit flies forever. Where the grammar is a little bit street and a little bit country. Five, of 105 degrees, we check the score of the game more than the weather. Sports-centric, with unparalleled passion.” he concludes the hype jersey video by saying, “You know where you can find me? You can find me in St. Louis. In baseball heaven, with more rings than you can fit on two hands.”
The iconic birds on a baseball bat insignia of the Cardinals is included on their City Connect uniform, but there are two notable changes: the jersey is red and “The Lou,” a reference to one of the city’s nicknames, has taken the place of the term “Cardinals.” It’s a big deal, as the Cardinals have never donned a red jersey before. Nelly has also been in the news with the announcement that he and Ashanti are expecting a child together. All in all, Nelly is proud to put on for The Lou, and we are happy to see it.
Earlier this year, Ashanti and Nelly’s rekindled relationship became a can’t miss story. It began with rumors swirling around the pair before they eventually confirmed the reunion to the delight of many fans. That formula was exactly the same for the pregnancy that followed. Rumors of a hidden pregnancy followed the pair around for months. Fans thought they noticed a baby bump during Super Bowl Weekend and even compared what she was doing to Halle Bailey, who gave birth to a child earlier this year without ever revealing her pregnancy publicly.
The official pregnancy announcement didn’t come until last month. It’s been a few weeks since then but the couple are seemingly still enjoying sharing the info with fans. Ashanti took to Instagram to share an adorable video where she takes fans into a day of her life. Towards the end of the clip she facetimes Nelly, who is in the studio. That’s why she adorably reveals to him that she’s pregnant, something he’s absolutely delighted to hear. Check out the adorable full video below.
Last week, Ashanti had to clap back at Nelly on social media after he made a joke about her pregnancy weight. He shared a picture to Instagram of the pregnant singer sitting on his leg while joking that she was putting quite a strain on him. She clapped back joking that she would knock him out, though it’s clearly all love between the pair.
A few weeks earlier we got to see Ashanti’s first new look after announcing her pregnancy. She popped up alongside Nelly at the Kennedy Center sporting a stunning blue dress with some fur accents for an event late last month. What do you think of Ashanti sharing a video of the moment she revealed to Nelly that she’s pregnant? Did you believe the pregnancy rumors swirling around the couple for months before they officially confirmed it? Let us know in the comment section below.
I can’t help but to smile when I see these two together
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I’m so happy for them!! 
