Nelly and Ashanti Host Annual Charity Ball in St. Louis, Honoring a Cause and Celebrating Music
A host of A-list celebrities gathered at the Four Seasons Hotel in St. Louis, Missouri, to support Nelly’s annual Black & White Charity Ball. Co-hosted by Nelly and his partner Ashanti, the glamorous event raised funds for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, which works to fulfill dreams for children facing critical illnesses.
This year, 14-year-old Max Del Rosario, diagnosed with Hodgkin’s disease in February, received an early Christmas surprise. The Make-A-Wish Missouri Foundation, with Nelly’s support, gifted Max a brand-new home theater system, bringing joy to the young patient and his family. Additionally, a Harris-Stowe State University sophomore was awarded a full-ride scholarship, further highlighting the event’s meaningful impact.
Nelly and Ashanti Steal the Show
According to PEOPLE, Nelly and Ashanti were the center of attention, showcasing their love and playful chemistry. Ashanti joined Nelly on stage to perform their iconic 2002 hit “What’s Luv.” During her performance of “Baby,” Ashanti playfully remixed the lyrics, singing, “We made a baby, baby, baby, baby, baby.”
Nelly, visibly proud and in high spirits, addressed the crowd with: “Make some noise for my God damn beautiful wife.”
Star-Studded Performances and Guests
The evening featured unforgettable performances by Ne-Yo, Jermaine Dupri, Bow Wow, the St. Lunatics, and J-Kwon. A roster of celebrities, including Metro Boomin, Bryan-Michael Cox, pro football Hall of Famer Orlando Pace, and Guns N’ Roses guitarist Richard Fortus, were also in attendance.
To cap off the night, Nelly and the St. Lunatics were honored with the key to the city, recognizing their contributions to music and the community.
Nelly’s “Where The Party At” Tour Announcement
Beyond the charity ball, Nelly recently announced his highly-anticipated “Where The Party At” Tour. The tour celebrates the 25th anniversary of his groundbreaking debut album Country Grammar.
Taking to Instagram, Nelly shared his excitement:
“Yo, ‘Where Da Party At Tour’ we are taking this tour worldwide — I got my folks with me Ja Rule, Jermaine Dupri, Eve, the St. Lunatics, and Fabulous — so you know it’s up all 2025… LET’S GOOOOO..!!! Da Party AT…!!”
Final Thoughts
Nelly’s annual charity ball was more than just a glamorous affair; it was a celebration of love, music, and giving back to the community. With an exciting tour on the horizon and his continued philanthropic work, Nelly proves why he remains a beloved icon in the entertainment world.
