The world knows Nelly, born Cornell Iral Haynes Jr., as a chart-topping rapper, famous for hits like “Hot in Herre” and “Dilemma.” Yet, behind his iconic career, there’s a different, equally significant story — the story of Nelly as a devoted father. Throughout the years,
Nelly’s children have remained a central part of his life. While his career may have been in the limelight, his role as a dad has been just as essential to his identity. Among his five children, his son Cornell Iral Haynes III, affectionately known as “Tre” or “Trizzle,” holds a special place, carrying on not just the family name, but also his father’s spirit and values.
This blog takes a closer look at Nelly’s children, focusing on the close bond he shares with Cornell and how Nelly’s journey as a father has shaped both his personal and professional life.
The Blended Haynes Family
Nelly shares five children — three biological and two adopted. His two biological children, daughter Chanelle and son Cornell, were born from his relationship with ex-girlfriend Channetta Valentine. In 2005, after the heartbreaking loss of his sister, Jackie Donahue, to leukemia, Nelly adopted her two children, Shawn and Sydney. And most recently, Nelly and his wife, singer Ashanti, welcomed their first child together, a son named Kareem, in July 2024.
Raising this blended family has not always been easy, but Nelly has consistently stepped up to meet the challenges. In a 2020 interview, he shared his thoughts on fatherhood, reflecting on the importance of family, even through tough times. “As bad as I felt and whatever I was going through, I can’t imagine what they [Shawn and Sydney] were going through,” Nelly remarked, emphasizing how they shaped each other through mutual love and support.
Cornell Haynes III: A Chip Off the Old Block
Among Nelly’s five children, his son, Cornell Iral Haynes III, stands out as a reflection of the rapper’s own journey. Born in 1999, Cornell III has grown up under the spotlight, attending numerous red-carpet events with his father, including the 19th Annual Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards in 2006. He also appeared on Nelly’s reality show Nellyville in 2014, where audiences got to know him as a sports-loving teen with ambitions beyond the shadow of his famous father.
Cornell III, known as “Tre” or “Trizzle” on social media, was introduced as a “sports fanatic” on Nellyville. He played varsity football during high school and was seen as a natural athlete. However, he didn’t just inherit his father’s athleticism — Tre has also shown a deep respect for family, which has long been a hallmark of Nelly’s values. Tre’s close relationship with his dad is evident in many public appearances and interviews, where Nelly has praised his son for being a respectful young man, particularly toward his great-grandmother.
A Father-Son Bond Like No Other
Nelly has often expressed pride in the close-knit relationship he shares with his children, but with Cornell III, the bond seems especially strong. The two share not only a name but also a deep connection rooted in shared experiences, values, and mutual respect. In a 2015 interview, Nelly discussed the unique challenges of being a modern father, noting how today’s parents share more interests with their kids than ever before. “We wear the same clothes, play video games, and like the same things,” Nelly said, emphasizing how he and his son have a friendship-like relationship.
Though Nelly remains a father first, he acknowledges that he and Cornell can “literally be buddies.” Whether it’s swapping clothes or talking about music, the two have a relationship that goes beyond the traditional father-son dynamic. However, Nelly is also mindful of the need to guide his children. He recognizes that even though they may share similar interests, it’s his responsibility to help steer them through life’s complexities.
Balancing Fame and Family
For Cornell, being the son of a global superstar hasn’t always been easy. As Nelly pointed out in an interview, the children of celebrities often face extra challenges due to their parents’ fame. “You can’t just be Nelly when it works for you,” the rapper explained, noting that being the child of a public figure comes with its own set of expectations and pressures.
However, Cornell has found his own way in the world, carving out a niche as a music producer. Though his father’s name may open doors, it’s Tre’s own talents and creative choices that have earned him recognition. Cornell has also been praised for his respectful nature and strong family values — traits that Nelly is undoubtedly proud of.
The Newest Addition: Kareem Kenkaide Haynes
In July 2024, Nelly and Ashanti welcomed their first child together, a baby boy named Kareem. This new chapter in Nelly’s life as a father adds a fresh layer to his parenting journey. Ashanti has shared that Kareem’s middle name, Kenkaide, is a tribute to her father, making the birth of this child even more special for the family. As Nelly embraces fatherhood for the fifth time, his experiences raising Cornell and the other children have undoubtedly prepared him for this new role.
Nelly’s Reflections on Fatherhood
Over the years, Nelly has been open about the joys and challenges of being a father. He’s often said that his children helped raise him as much as he raised them, shaping his understanding of responsibility, love, and resilience. His relationship with Cornell, in particular, seems to have helped ground him, allowing Nelly to remain connected to the importance of family, even as his career soared to new heights.
Looking ahead, it will be interesting to see how Nelly’s bond with Cornell and his other children continues to evolve. With Cornell III now forging his own path as a producer, the next chapter of the Haynes family legacy is already unfolding.
Conclusion
Nelly’s journey as a father has been marked by love, resilience, and a deep commitment to his children. His bond with his son, Cornell, reflects the values of respect, hard work, and family loyalty that have shaped both their lives. As Cornell forges his own path in the world, it’s clear that the Haynes family legacy, built on a foundation of love and support, will continue to thrive.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is Cornell Haynes III? Cornell Haynes III, also known as “Tre” or “Trizzle,” is Nelly’s second child, born in 1999. He shares his father’s love for sports and has pursued a career as a music producer.
2. How many children does Nelly have? Nelly has five children: two biological children, Chanelle and Cornell, whom he shares with ex-girlfriend Channetta Valentine, two adopted children, Shawn and Sydney, after his sister’s passing in 2005, and a newborn son, Kareem, with his wife, Ashanti.
3. What is Nelly’s relationship with his son, Cornell, like? Nelly shares a close and unique bond with Cornell, often describing their relationship as one of mutual respect and friendship. They share many common interests, including music, fashion, and sports.
4. How has Nelly handled being a single father? Nelly has been open about the challenges of being a single father, particularly after adopting his sister’s children following her death. He’s always prioritized family, balancing his career with his fatherly duties.
5. What role does family play in Nelly’s life? Family has always been central to Nelly’s life, from raising his biological and adopted children to recently welcoming a new son with Ashanti. He’s spoken extensively about the importance of love, support, and mutual growth within his family unit.
