Nelly has been one of the first artists to break the Hip-Hop and Country barrier with his 2004 collaboration with Tim McGraw, “Over and Over.” Ever since, he’s been a favorite collaborator for country artists, and back in August, Nelly released Heartland, a country album that reached Billboard’s Top Country Albums chart and which featured Kane Brown, Florida Georgia Line, and other country acts. CMT has embraced Nelly’s contributions as well: just last month, the rapper was highlighted during CMT’s Crossroads , a show that celebrates artists from other genres.
So, Nelly is having a moment: besides all the love that he’s getting from the country music community, he was just honored at the 2021 BET Hip Hop Awards as he received the I Am Hip Hop award which recognizes distinguished artists that continue to elevate the culture. Nelly’s performance medley of his greatest hits was easily the highlight of the award show.
Check out Nelly’s performance at the BET Awards and as well as his performances at CMT’s Crossroads special.