If there is anyone who knows about the success of hip-hop in the early 2000s, it’s Nelly.
However, the rapper says that despite his massive success with hits such as “Country Grammar” and “Air Force 1s,” Nelly admits being a rapper during his era was difficult. This was partially because artists from bigger cities, such as New York and Los Angeles, were also dominating hip-hop during that time. Nelly, being St. Louis’s breakout rap star, had stiff competition.
“You gotta understand, my era of music was the toughest era in Hip Hop ever. Ever! When I put out songs, I had to go against DMX, JAY-Z, Eminem, Lil Wayne, 50 Cent, Luda. All of us are fighting for one spot! So from ’99 to 2008-2010, it’s the hardest era ever to get records,” Nelly explained during his recent interview on LeBron James’ “The Shop.”
Even with so many acts of that time period, Nelly’s fanbase showed up for him. His breakout hit, “Country Grammar,” and the infectious party record “Hot in Herre” achieved diamond status in the United States. Nelly has also earned 12 Grammy nominations, bringing home three trophies. Outside of music, it appeared that everything else Nely touched turned to gold. His Apple Bottoms line, launched in 2003, brought in millions of dollars thanks to its cult-like fanbase.
Thankfully, it appears that Nelly and many of those in his hip-hop class are still relevant today and continue to thrive.
