Last night was a “Who’s who of ‘The Lou’” as St. Louis native and international rap star Nelly presented his 5th Annual Black and White Ball last night (Sun., Dec. 19) at the Chase Park Plaza.
Over the years the event has transitioned from a star-studded event to an STL star showcase – which isn’t a bad thing.
As a matter of fact it was a good look that movers and shakers from all facets – from professional athletes, high powered promoters to business owners and execs – came together for the invitation only event, helping pay homage to a hometown hero who uses the gala to give back.
Rams Players Steven Jackson and Chris Long, Bill and Ira DeWitt, Joe Edwards, Mike Roberts, St. Lunatics and the Derrty Ent. Family and more came out to fellowship and help Nelly honor recipients of the 2011 Black and White Gala Scholarship at Lindenwood University. Music super-producer and Nelly’s longtime friend Jermaine Dupri was in the building as well.
Two students were awarded a full scholarship to the school and Ricky Whittington (of Plaza Motors) received recognition from the university’s Black Student Union for “having the creative foresight to bring Nelly, Plaza Motors and Lindenwood together to create the Black and White Scholarship.”
After the formalities, came the fun.
DMC, backed by St. Louis’ own DJ Charlie Chan Soprano, provided the crowd with their first dose of entertainment. But a familiar face to the Black and White Ball would serve as the main event on stage.
After years of being a “special invited guest,” Nelly’s alleged love interest Ashanti offered her talent to the crowd and had them on their feet by night’s end. Accompanied by a live band, backup dancers and wearing a sequined black-tie bodysuit, she sang several hits from her nearly ten years of hit making.
“Foolish,” “Happy,” “The Way That I Love You,” “Only U” and “Rock Wit U,” were just some of the songs she allowed the crowd to vibe to. Ashanti even welcomed Nelly to the stage for an up close and personal moment between the two during “If I Was Your Girlfriend.”
By the time the party was over, the stage would be full of guests getting down and going out with a bang.
