Nelly Reflects on Hip-Hop's Toughest Era: 1999-2010 and Discusses His Breakthrough Amidst Challenges
According to Nelly, the late 1990s to the early 2010s marked a period of intense competition in the rap industry. He recalled releasing songs amidst heavy hitters like DMX, JAY-Z, Eminem, Lil Wayne, 50 Cent, and Ludacris, all vying for the top spot on the charts. Describing it as "the toughest era in hip-hop ever," Nelly highlighted the fierce battle for recognition and success among artists during that time.
My era of music was the toughest era in Hip Hop, ever. When I put out songs, I had to go against DMX, JAY-Z, Eminem, Lil Wayne, 50 Cent [and Ludacris, All of us are fighting for one spot. So, from 1999 to like 2008, 2010, [it was] the hardest era, ever.During the discussion, comedian Cedric the Entertainer added humor by reciting a memorable line from JAY-Z's "Excuse Me Miss," underscoring the competitive landscape of the era.”
- Nelly
Nelly On Why He Thinks His Era Of Hip Hop Was 'The Toughest'
Nelly Claims From 1999 to 2010 Was ‘Toughest Era in Hip-Hop Ever’ to Succeed.
— WhatsOnRap (@WhatsOnRap_) March 7, 2024
“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.”
🎥: @TheShopUN pic.twitter.com/rI3f2FZDLB
Aside from reflecting on the challenges of his career, Nelly also addressed his disappointment with the Recording Academy. He revealed his frustration at not being nominated for Best New Artist at the Grammys despite the massive success of his debut album, "Country Grammar," which sold over 5 million records. Nelly emphasized that his album came out in 2000, making him ineligible for the 2001 nomination, which was ultimately won by Alicia Keys.
Despite the Grammy snub, Nelly's illustrious career earned him a total of 12 nominations from the Recording Academy. Among his accolades are wins for Best Rap/Sung Performance for "Dilemma" featuring Kelly Rowland, Best Male Rap Solo Performance for "Hot In Herre," and Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group for "Shake Ya Tailfeather" with Diddy and Murphy Lee.
Nelly's appearance on "The Shop" offers fans insight into the challenges and triumphs of his career, highlighting his impact on the hip-hop genre and his enduring legacy in the music industry.
Nelly's candid discussion on "The Shop" sheds light on the competitive nature of hip-hop's golden era and his journey as a pioneering artist in the genre.