Nelly Says New Album Boasts His Favorite Collabo Of All-Time, Potential Ringtone Smash
Published: Wednesday - August 27, 2008
Words by Nic Perrino
Nelly (Photo: Universal)
The wait is almost over. Nelly's fifth studio album, Brass Knuckles is almost here. While it may seem like it's been way too long since we've seen the St. Louis native grace an album cover (Nelly normally takes two years between albums), he didn't leave us empty handed, giving us "Wadsyaname" during our wait and releasing the album's single, "Party People" featuring Fergie, back in March.
Fans will notice a definite progression in Nelly's music, noting that he has chosen to evolve with the changes in music, rather than try to keep a tight grip on any particular sounds. But of course his signature style is going nowhere.
During a private listening session held in Manhattan last week, Nelly excitedly played select members of press the majority of tracks from the new album. Giving stories behind most of the tracks, Nelly admitted to almost wrecking his car when he first heard the beat for "Hold Up," a song featuring T.I and LL Cool J.
A very special song to him is called "Self Esteem" featuring Chuck D, which Nelly proclaims is his all time favorite collaboration, stating that, "Chuck D don't just get on records."
"One And Only," produced by Polow Da Don, which Nelly says is his daughters favorite track, is about childhood friends who see each other at a high school reunion. Polow also contributes to at least one other track on the album -- one Nelly claims will be the reason for people who have never bought a ringtone, to finally buy their first. Listeners can also look forward to features with Usher, Nate Dogg, and Pharrell, among others.
Although Nelly is obviously excited about his current music project, he has commented on the fact that people like to focus on the wrong things sometimes, and forget about his projects such as Jes Us 4 Jackie (Jesus4Jackie.com), a foundation he launched after the death of his late sister Jackie Donahue. The foundation helps educate African Americas about bone marrow and stem cell transplants, and has helped save nine lives so far. Nelly also launched 4Sho4Kids Foundation (4sho4kids.org), in which the organization helps children born with developmental disabilities.
Of course Nelly is also responsible for both Apple Bottom and Vokal brands, a Sports Bar in St. Louis called Skybox, part ownership of the Charlotte Bobcats, not to mention being the first spokesmodel for Sean John Underwear.
With everything on his plate, Nelly still had the time to pay attention to the ever changing music industry and bring yet another album. Brass Knuckles is slated for release September 16.
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