Rapper Nelly has addressed backlash surrounding his performance at the Liberty Inaugural Ball, one of three official events celebrating Donald Trump’s return to the presidency. Speaking on Willie D Live, the St. Louis native clarified his decision, emphasizing that his appearance is not a political endorsement but rather an act of respect for the office.
“I Respect the Office”
Nelly downplayed the political implications of his performance, likening it to a civic duty. “He’s the president. He won. This isn’t a campaign, this isn’t an RNC. I’m not out on a political campaign,” he said. “I’m not doing this for money, I’m doing this because it’s an honor. I respect the office. It doesn’t matter who is in office.”
He compared his performance to the sense of obligation felt by military personnel. “The same way that our men and women, our brothers and sisters who protect this country, have to go to war for whoever is in office, I can damn sure perform.”
Addressing Critics
When asked about the criticism that performing for the event could be seen as support for Trump, Nelly had a direct response: “More than half this country voted for Trump. If you respect the process when the process works in your favor, respect the process when it doesn’t work in your favor.”
Nelly also highlighted that his intentions were rooted in unity, not division. “If you follow what I do, this shouldn’t even be an argument,” he said, referencing his long-standing commitment to representing his community.
Liberty Inaugural Ball Performers
At the Liberty Inaugural Ball, Nelly is set to perform alongside the Village People, whose hit “Y.M.C.A.” became a rallying anthem during Trump’s campaign. In a statement earlier this week, the band addressed their participation:
“We believe that music is to be performed without regard to politics. Our song Y.M.C.A. is a global anthem that hopefully helps bring the country together after a tumultuous and divided campaign.”
A History of Mixed Opinions
Nelly’s stance on Trump has shifted over time. In 2017, he told Page Six that he was unimpressed with Trump’s presidency, despite previously enjoying Trump’s hotels and public persona. “I liked Donald Trump, I did, I just don’t like Donald Trump as my president,” he said.
The Broader Debate
The Liberty Inaugural Ball reflects a broader trend of divisive reactions to performers participating in Trump-associated events. While Nelly and the Village People will perform at the ball, the inauguration itself features artists such as Carrie Underwood, Lee Greenwood, and Christopher Macchio. Similarly, artists like Snoop Dogg, Rick Ross, and Soulja Boy sparked controversy for appearing at the Crypto Ball on Friday, despite past criticisms of Trump.
Navigating Music and Politics
Nelly’s performance underscores the tension between music as a unifying force and its entanglement in politics. As he put it, “I’m here to perform, not to take sides.”
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