Nelly
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As the East and West Coast battled for the Hip-Hop crown in the early 2000s, Nelly hit the scene like a nuclear bomb —hypnotizing the world with his “Country Grammar.” He made history in 2008 when his debut album became only the eighth Hip-Hop album in history to ever be certified diamond.
In 2009, Nelly was ranked No. 3 Top Artist of the Decade. He even received a nod from Jay-Z when the Brooklyn rapper held the crown as the hottest rapper in the game. “Only dudes moving units — Em, Pimp Juice and us.” Nelly’s ability to blend Hip-Hop and Country music has contributed to his longevity in the game. He deserves his flowers “Andele, andele!”
