See and Be Seen: Nelly’s Black and White Ball 2023

He’s from the Lou and he’s proud!

Nelly’s star-studded Black and White Ball made its triumphant return last week following a six-year absence. The rap superstar’s party with a purpose raised money for Make-A-Wish Missouri and granted college scholarships, as well as celebrated his hometown of St. Louis.

Guests in attendance during the Dec. 3 soiree at Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis included Nelly’s “shawty” Ashanti, DMC of Run DMC, Murphy Lee, Kyjuan, City, Slo’Down, Blanco Brown, Isaac Keys, Jermaine Dupri, Wyclef Jean, Bow Wow, Ron Isley, Ozzie Smith, Jim Edmonds, Torry Holt and Orlando Pace, among others.

A highlight of the evening had Nelly joining Murphy Lee, Slo’Down, Kyjuan and City on stage performing fan favorites like “Air Force Ones, “Wat Da Hook Gon Be” and “Batter Up.”

Entertainment during the ball’s private dinner featured DMC and DJ Charlie Chan, while the after-party headliner was Wyclef Jean. Jean’s performance was followed by a group jam session, including multiple mini-concert sets featuring Nelly with Ashanti, Nelly with Jermaine Dupri, Monica and Bow Wow. Blanco Brown and Polow Da Don also performed.

Nelly, who has been a longtime supporter of Make-A-Wish, granted a wish live on stage to 4-year-old Messiah Rice, who wished to go to Disney World. Nelly also surprised three Harris-Stowe State University students with Apple Macbook Airs and full-ride scholarships.

Cardinals Hall of Famer Ozzie Smith was honored with the event’s first “Black and White Ball Legend Award.”

photos by Jon Gitchoff