Instagram –
With the dust barely settled on the much-anticipated Erykah Badu vs. Jill Scott Instagram Live event that took place on Saturday (May 10), Verzuz has announced its next epic matchup: Nelly vs. Ludacris.
The battle was first announced via a May 9 IG Live conversation Verzuz co-owners Swizz Beatz and Timbaland.
“Can we get that, Ludacris versus Nelly, can we get that next Saturday, Timbaland?” Swizz asked Timbo. “Yes, we can get that. We got that,” he replied.
Swizz Beatz & Timbaland essentially confirm Ludacris vs. Nelly next weekend! pic.twitter.com/L0KagOw6pO
— James Fauntleroy Stan Account (@yoyotrav) May 10, 2020
Keeping in line with the other battles thus far, it brings together two artists that had incredible track records of crafting countless hits throughout their careers.
Ludacris made his debut in 1999 with Incognegro, which spawned the two singles “What’s Your Fantasy” and “Ho” — both of which were again included on his triple-platinum sophomore LP (and major label debut), Back For The First Time. Across a catalog of nine albums, he spawned five Billboard 100 chart-topping singles, four Billboard 200 No. 1 albums and lined his walls with plaques.
He also co-founded Disturbing The Peace in 1999 — which launched the careers of acts like Field Mob, Bobby Valentino, Playaz Circle (a duo that included Tity Boi a.k.a 2 Chainz) and Chingy.
Nelly’s 2000 debut album Country Grammar, propelled by the title-track and single “Ride Wit Me,” has gone on to reach diamond certification, selling well over 10 million copies.
Across a catalog of seven albums, he spawned four Billboard 100 chart-topping singles and three Billboard 200 No. 1 albums — as well as earned distinction as one of the best-selling rap acts in American music history.
Both award-winning artists have also transcended and impacted the culture in multiple ways, from film and numerous business ventures to philanthropy.
No date has been officially set for the battle, but based on their discographies and a massive list of guest appearances, it’s sure to be a close one.
Ludacris vs Nelly #VERZUZ
— Verzuz (@verzuzonline) May 10, 2020