Nelly is an American rapper, singer, and actor. Growing up in St. Louis, Missouri, he got his start in music in 1993 as a member of the hip-hop group St. Lunatics before releasing his breakthrough debut album Country Grammar in 2000. His second album Nellyville debuted at No. 1 on Billboard's albums chart in 2002 and included his single Hot in Herre, which won a Grammy for Best Male Rap Solo Performance. His chart-topping song Dilemma featuring Kelly Rowland also received a Grammy for Best Rap/Sung Collaboration that same year. Shake Ya Tailfeather, a No. 1 hit from the Bad Boys II soundtrack, took home the 2004 Grammy for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group.

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In September 2004, his albums Sweat and Suit showcased the artist's love for both rap and R&B. Also in 2004, Nelly began exploring the country genre on the crossover hit Over and Over with Tim McGraw and later released Heartland in 2021, featuring collaborations with Florida Georgia Line, Jimmie Allen, and Kane Brown.

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He appeared in the film The Longest Yard with Adam Sandler and Chris Rock, as well as the television series Real Husbands of Hollywood and its spin-off Real Husbands of Hollywood: More Kevin, More Problems. He also placed third as a contestant on the 29th season of Dancing with the Stars.