Born Cornell Haynes, Jr., we know this rapper by the name of Nelly. Nelly started his career in 1993 performing with the rap group St. Lunatics that is featured on the track "Ride Wit Me."  It wasn't until 1999 that Nelly signed with Universal.

In 2000, Nelly released his debut album "Country Grammar." It went on to hit the number three spot on Billboard's Top Ten. The title track hit number 1 on the Rap charts. Other popular songs included "Ride Wit Me" and "E.I." In April 2004, this album went nine times Platinum; what an achievement!

Nelly truly made a name for himself with his debut, which only set high standards for his second album "Nellyville." The album debuted at the number 1 spot on Billboard's Top 200 Music albums list, truly showing that Nelly could live up to the hype. H

its on this 2002 release include "Hot in Here," which hit number 1, and "Dilemma." The song "Dilemma" featured singer Kelly Rowland from Destiny's Child. The song was a more romantic and moving number, which adding to the range of Nelly's sounds.

With his next album, "Da Derrty Versions: The Reinvention," Nelly entered the family scene as his song "Iz U" was featured in the Disney movie "The Haunted Mansion." The album was also a cause of controversy as his songs "Tip Drill" and "Pimp Juice" depicted women as misogynists.  Despite the drama, this album also went Platinum.

Keeping busy, 2004 saw the release of two albums: "Sweat" and "Suit." One of the more memorable songs from the album "Suit" was the mellow country duet Nelly did with Tim McGraw which became a favorite!

Nelly's latest release is "Brass Knuckles" which hit stands in September 2008. The album was delayed time and time again. But keeping it fresh and different, Nelly collaborated with artists such as Fergie, of the Black Eyed Peas, Ashanti, and Akon.

Nelly has truly established himself on the hip-hop scene. He realizes that with the changing times, he has to keep his music fresh. The numerous collaborations Nelly has done are unmatched and now fans are eager to see what it next!

Enjoy the single "Ride Wit Me" from Nelly's debut album and let us know if you are a Nelly fan!