Nelly is an American rapper, singer, actor and entrepreneur from Austin, Texas. Born Cornell Iral Haynes, Jr. in 1974, he is active from 1993 and first performs as a member of the rap group St. Lunatics. He is also associated with Ocean's 7 and is signed to Derrty Entertainment and Universal.

Music career

Nelly becomes widely known after the success of his solo debut Country Grammar in 2000. The album reaches number one on the Billboard 200, produces several charting singles and wins three Grammy Awards. His second album, Nellyville, appears in 2002 and includes the singles "Dilemma" and "Hot in Herre". It receives five Grammy nominations, including Album of the Year.

In 2004 he releases Sweat and Suit at the same time, and for a short period they hold the top two positions on the charts. His latest album listed here is Brass Knuckles, which appears in 2008.

Business ventures

Alongside recording, Nelly works as a businessman. He launches the energy drink Pimp Juice, becomes a minority owner of the Charlotte Bobcats basketball team, and serves as CEO of Derrty Entertainment, which he forms in 2003. He also has two clothing lines, Vokal for men and Apple Bottoms for women.

Background

Nelly is born to a half Tunisian father and an American mother. He works in hip hop, contemporary R&B, hip hop soul, pop, pop rap and pop soul.