After reports surfaced about Nelly being slated to perform at President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration, the St. Louis rapper defended his decision, stating, “I apologize. I didn’t know I had to agree with your political choices.”
On Friday, January 17, sources involved in the planning of Trump’s inauguration confirmed that Nelly, 50, was set to perform at the Liberty Ball, one of three official inaugural balls taking place on Monday, January 20.
According to reports, a press release from Trump’s Inaugural Committee, which announced the three-time Grammy Award winner as part of the lineup.
The Liberty Ball, geared toward Trump supporters, follows the swearing-in ceremony at the Capitol, which was moved indoors due to extreme weather.
Meanwhile, the Commander in Chief Ball honors military members, and the Starlight Ball is designed for high-profile donors. Trump is scheduled to give speeches at all three events.
The announcement of Nelly’s performance sparked backlash on social media, with critics also targeting Snoop Dogg, Rick Ross, and Soulja Boy, who performed at the Crypto Ball earlier in Trump’s inauguration weekend.
In an interview with Willie D, Nelly expressed confusion over the criticism, emphasizing his intent to perform as a patriotic gesture rather than a political statement.
“I thought you supported me for representing my city,” Nelly said. “I didn’t realize it was tied to who I voted for. I’m sorry if that upset you. I thought actions mattered more than words.”
He added, “Trump is the president. He won. I’m not campaigning for him, nor did I take any money to support a candidate. I respect the office, regardless of who holds it. Just like our service members risk their lives for the country no matter who is president, I can perform for whoever holds that office.”
