Nelly Defends His Decision to Perform at Trump’s Inauguration
The St. Louis native says it’s about respecting the office, not politics. At least we heard his side...right?
Nelly is no stranger to being in the headlines, but his decision to perform at President Donald Trump’s second inauguration has ignited backlash from fans.
The rapper, best known for chart-toppers like “Hot in Herre” and “Dilemma”, joins artists such as Snoop Dogg, Rick Ross, and Soulja Boy in appearing at Trump-related events marking the start of his next term.
In an interview on the “Willie D Live” podcast, Nelly addressed the criticism head-on. “I’m not doing this for money,” he stated. “I’m doing this ‘cause it’s an honor. I respect the office. It don’t matter who is in office. The same way that our men and women, our brothers and sisters who protect this country have to go to war and have to put their life on the line for whoever in office. So, if they can put their life on the line for whoever in office, I can d**n sure perform for whoever in office.”
The rapper also asked for proof President Donald Trump is a ‘white supremacist” before taking a swipe at President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, referencing statements and decisions from their time in the White House.
Watch the full interview below.
The Bigger Picture
Over the years, Trump’s polarizing transition from pop culture figure to political leader has created a rift in the entertainment industry. While artists like Lil Wayne, Kodak Black, and Kanye West have openly supported him, others remain critical, arguing their peers' endorsements reflect personal financial gain rather than genuine political alignment.
Regardless of where one stands, Nelly’s choice to perform serves as another reminder of how deeply divided the public—and the industry—remains over the 47th president of the United States.