In an exclusive interview with VladTV, St. Lunatics member Ali Jones candidly discussed his decision to distance himself from fellow artist Nelly, citing alleged outstanding financial obligations as the primary reason behind their parting ways.
During the conversation, Ali revealed that Nelly had fallen behind on payments owed to him for his contributions to their joint endeavors. Without disclosing exact figures, Ali estimated that the amount in question ranged between $70,000 and $90,000. He recounted instances where he expected larger sums but received much smaller checks, leading to confusion and frustration.
“I’ll say like it could be $90,000 or $70,000,” he estimated. “When that conversation happens I’ll get a check. It’ll be $13,000. Now you’ll be fucked up now because what is this $13,000 for? You owe me $91,000. What did you pay me for? At the end of it, it’s gonna be $66,000 because he’s far behind on the payments.”
In addition to addressing the financial matters, Ali expressed disappointment with the lack of effective communication on Nelly’s part. He also pointed out external influences that seemed to drive a wedge between Nelly and the St. Lunatics group. These factors collectively led Ali to make the resolute decision that he would not collaborate with Nelly in the future, whether on stage or in any artistic capacity.
Reflecting on his decision, Ali remarked, “A tiger ain’t never gon’ change his stripes,” he said. “I watched it for 20 years and I’m the butt of the joke because it took me 20 years to realize it. I could put a never, ever behind it will I ever hit the stage or do anything with him.” He further emphasized, “He has no real raw good intentions for others. Not for us and we’ve all sat together and searched hard to try to find a time that didn’t benefit him. He got $50million, I’m happy for him. That’s what he wants. He wants a billion.”
Ali’s reference to the reported $50 million figure pertains to Nelly’s recent deal involving the sale of half of his music catalog in June. The agreement, forged in partnership with HarbourView Equity Partners, encompassed an array of chart-topping albums, which significantly contributed to shaping the contemporary landscape of Hip Hop and R&B. Notable tracks such as “Hot In Herre” and “Dilemma” were included in the transaction.
