June 27 In Hip-Hop History: Nelly Drops His Debut Album 'Country Grammar'

It's been 25 years since Nelly put St. Louis on the map with his top-charting music.

On June 27, 2000, the Missouri native released his debut album Country Grammar via Universal Records. The 17-track LP was led by its title track "Country Grammar (Hot Sh*t)," which had already dominated the charts four months before the album dropped. Country Grammar sold over 235,000 copies by the time it entered the Billboard 200 two weeks after its release, but the impact of the album had only just begun. Nelly would spend the next year making headlines with the album's other popular hits.

Country Grammar was primarily produced by Jason "Jay E" Epperson and Lavell Webb a.k.a "City Spud." It begins with a skit featuring comedian Cedric the Entertainer, followed by Nelly's dedication to "St. Louie" and the album's title track. Nelly also introduced the world to the St. Lunatics — Ali, Murphy Lee, Kyjuan, City Spud, and Slo Down — on songs like "Steal The Show," "Ride Wit Me" featuring City Spud, and "Batter Up" with Murphy Lee and Ali. The latter two tracks were stand-out singles from the album, in addition to "E.I." Outside of Ced and the St. Lunatics, Lil Wayne was the only other artist Nelly recruited for the album.

Nelly's debut album set the foundation for his successful career in the entertainment industry. Since his critically-acclaimed debut, Nelly has dropped eight albums, starred in three major films, and won three Grammy awards. The accomplished MC is currently celebrating his 25-year career while on his "Where The Party At Tour" with the St. Lunatics, Ja Rule, Eve, Fabolous, Jermaine Dupri and Chingy. Nelly and the crew began the tour overseas in March, but they plan to kick off the U.S. leg on July 23 in Virginia. Tickets are on sale now.

Relive Nelly's debut album Country Grammar on iHeartRadio now and watch the best music videos from the album below.