Officials said no protesters were in evidence as Nelly took the stage Saturday at the Convocation Center. A group of 20 Jonesboro ministers had complained that Nelly's songs refer to drugs, sex and violence and called on people to tear up their tickets.

During a March 1 rally, the Rev. Adrian Rodgers of the Fullness of Joy Church said, "Jonesboro is a wonderful city because of what does not come here."

Nelly's concert at the northeastern Arkansas school was part of a nationwide tour.

The 30-year-old rapper's hits include "Hot in Herre," "Country Grammar" and "Over and Over" with Tim McGraw.