Nelly, born Cornell Iral Haynes Jr. in 1974 in St. Louis, Missouri, is an American rapper, singer, and entrepreneur known for his smooth flow, catchy hooks, and genre-blending style. Rising to fame in the early 2000s with hits like “Hot in Herre,” “Dilemma,” and Country Grammar, he became a defining figure in hip-hop and pop crossover. Nelly’s commercial success, memorable performances, and influence on rap and mainstream music have solidified his status as a major cultural icon.

