It wasn't that long ago when Nelly was one of the biggest rappers in the world. He arguably had the most substantial crossover hits of any rapper ever, including 2002's ubiquitous hits "Dilemma" and "Hot In Herre" (he may also be responsible for the destruction of the grammar of American youth).Somewhere along the line, with the emergence of new artists and the changing tastes of music, Nelly got lost in the shuffle. His last album, 2008's Brass Knuckles, was an absolute disaster, virtually unnoticed by radio and the buying public. It definitely looked like he was done for good.
But it looks like he has making an earnest attempt at a comeback with his new album, Nelly 5.0.
The first single for pop radio from the album is "Just a Dream" (another song, "Tippin' In Da Club" is being sent to Urban). To be honest, it really is a pop record; there is no sign of Nelly really rapping at all in the song. So yes, that means he is singing. While the implications of most rappers singing haven't been too promising (right Kanye?), Nelly is actually good enough to pull off this instant smash of a record. Accompanied by a guitar and some pretty awesome synths, Nelly laments a lost love, regretting that he couldn't put a ring on it or let it burn. "Just a Dream" recalls 2004's hugely successful Suit album, which is why any claims that he is selling out can be put aside. In fact, he's going back to the roots that made him a megastar, while modernizing his sound. The result is one of the most guaranteed hits I have heard all year.
While there are rumors this may be Nelly's last album, and with his fortune it very well could be, but "Just a Dream" shows that Nelly has a lot more in him. If it is, then he is going out with a huge bang.
Rating: 8.5 out of 10
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