Yes, you read that right. The “Over and Over” and “Cruise” collaborator is following in the footsteps of recently gone-country artist Steven Tyler and embracing Nashville, currently working on an EP called “Heartland” that leans country, according to Billboard.
Although it seems like everyone on the planet is familiar with Nelly’s “Cruise” remix with Florida Georgia Line, which went eight times Platinum for the duo, fewer people know that Florida Georgia Line were also featured artists on the song “Walk Away,” which appeared on the rapper’s 2013 album M.O.
There’s no denying that Nelly has been one of the most involved rappers in the genre in the formats’ mutual crossover histories, including his #1 duet in 2004 with Tim McGraw, “Over and Over.” There’s no word yet on potential collaborations or co-writers in the country space on “Heartland,” but given Nelly’s involvement in the genre in the past, it would be remiss not to assume that he and his team have something in the works.
Nelly’s career began in 1993 with St. Lunatics, and his debut solo album Country Grammar was released in 2000. He performed “Cruise” with Florida Georgia Line at the American Music Awards in 2013.