LISTEN: These Unforgettable Hip-Hop Albums Turn 25 In 2025

Ready to feel old? It's been 25 years since Nelly released his classic song "Country Grammar (Hot Sh*t)."

The rapper out of St. Louis, MO released his debut single on February 29, 2000. The song, produced by Jason "Jay E" Epperson, quickly spread around the country and instantly put Nelly on the map especially after he landed at the top of the charts in the U.S. and the U.K. He rapped his catchy hit in front of the Gateway Arch in his hometown during the unforgettable music video for "Country Grammar" featuring appearances from his St. Lunatics crew and fellow Midwest rapper Chingy.

"Country Grammar (Hot Sh*t)" is the lead single for Nelly's debut album Country Grammar. The 17-track album dropped a few months later in June and contains other early hits by Nelly including "E.I.," "Ride Wit Me," "Batter Up" with the St. Lunatics, "For My" featuring Lil Wayne and more. The album topped the charts for weeks and eventually became the ninth Hip-Hop album to reach Diamond status according to the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).

Nelly's first studio album, along with other iconic projects by The LOX and Ghostface Killah, helped kick off a vital year in Hip-Hop history. Artists like Boosie Badazz and Trina also delivered their debut albums in 2000. Meanwhile, heavy-hitters like Beanie Sigel, Three 6 Mafia, Lil' Kim, Busta Rhymes, De La Soul and others dropped projects that strengthened their legacy in the rap game. Rap fans also received two powerful projects from Big Pun and Big L, who both passed away before their respective albums (Yeah Baby and The Big Picture) were released.

These classic raps albums will be a blast from the past, especially on Nostalgia Day! In honor of National Nostalgia Day, iHeartRadio is highlighting songs turning 25 this year featuring exclusive audio from their radio interviews in 2000. Jam out to these throwback tracks on the official playlist here and scroll below to hear more iconic rap albums.