Nelly Fires Back At Critics: Why He Agreed To Perform At Donald Trump’s Inaugural Ball

Nelly is standing firm amid backlash over his decision to perform at one of President-elect Donald Trump’s official inaugural balls.

The three-time Grammy-winning rapper, whose real name is Cornell Haynes Jr., is slated to take the stage at the Liberty Ball on Inauguration Day, one of three official celebrations marking the swearing-in of the 45th president of the United States. The Liberty Ball, scheduled for Monday in Washington, D.C., will take place following Trump’s swearing-in ceremony, according to the Trump-Vance Inaugural Committee.

Despite the high-profile nature of the event, Nelly’s involvement has sparked controversy, with critics accusing him of making a political statement or cashing in on the gig.

The Trump-Vance Inaugural Committee confirmed in a statement to NBC News on January 18 that Nelly would be featured as a "special guest performer" at the inaugural Liberty Ball. The event is scheduled to take place immediately following President Trump’s swearing-in ceremony.

“This marks a pivotal moment in our country where people from all backgrounds are joining together to commemorate President Trump’s victory and the start of a new golden era for America,” the statement read in part, highlighting the committee’s vision of unity and celebration.

After it was revealed that Nelly would perform at the Inaugural Ball, many users took to X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, to voice their frustrations and disappointment.

"I’m beyond disgusted at Nelly," one individual said. "I expect that clown tap dancing sh-t from Rick Ross and Soulja boy. But Nelly?!"

They added, "Saying f-ck you to the black community by publicly supporting a man that makes it clear he doesn’t like us nor care about us is insane."

Another individual chimed in with, "I had to unfollow Nelly, Ashanti, & Snoop all in one day. I don't support people who participate in or support Donald Trump in any way."

In addition to Nelly, rapper Snoop Dogg has also faced backlash for his involvement in Trump's Inaugural Ball.

In an interview with Willie D, Nelly addressed the fallout, making it clear his decision to perform is not rooted in politics. “I’m not a politician man, you didn’t see me out there on the campaign. You didn’t see me out there saying you should vote for this candidate,” Nelly told Willie D, per the "Today" show. “But I’m honored to be out there performing for the Office, for the President of the United States.”

“I’m not here to take up for Trump, I’m not here to take up for Republicans. I’m not here to take up for Democrats,” Nelly added. "This isn’t about agreeing with Trump’s political views. He’s the president. He won. That’s why I’m not telling you who to vote for. He’s the president of the United States, not the candidate for the United States."

He added, “Performing for somebody and voting for somebody is two different things. Endorsing people is two different things.”

For the rapper, his performance is about respecting the office of the presidency, regardless of who holds the title. "I respect the office. It don’t matter who is in office. If they can put their life on the line for whoever is in office, I can damn sure perform for whoever is in office."

The rapper later echoed, “Am I a Trump supporter? I support the Office. I support the President of the United States, regardless of who’s in office. Regardless, I respect the Office.”

This isn’t the first time Nelly has mentioned Trump. In his 2000 hit song "Country Grammar," the rapper name-dropped the real estate mogul, rapping, "Bill Gates, Donald Trump, let me in now. Spend now, I got money to lend my friends now."

Nelly went on to refute claims that his performance is a money grab. "I’m not doing this for money. I’m doing this because it’s an honor ... That’s what this is about," he said.

The criticism comes as Nelly continues to rebuild his public image after facing legal troubles last year. In August, he was arrested for drug possession, though he did not face charges.

For now, Nelly appears unfazed by the backlash. His focus remains on delivering a performance that celebrates the transition of power, rather than making a political statement. Whether fans agree or not, the rapper remains steadfast in his decision, choosing to stand by his belief in honoring the presidency above all else.

Joining Nelly, both Jason Aldean and The Village People are scheduled to perform at the Liberty Ball.