Nelly Speaks Out Following Controversial Performance At Donald Trump's Liberty Ball

Rapper Nelly is expressing his hopes for the future following his controversial performance at President Donald Trump’s inaugural Liberty Ball.

Despite criticism for agreeing to perform, Nelly has defended his decision and is now calling on the new president to guide and uplift the nation.

As he reflected on the evening, Nelly’s focus remained on unity and leadership.

“It was an honor to have performed for the highest office in the greatest nation,” Nelly shared with Fox News Digital following his performance. “Now we look to the president to step up, serve, and lift us all.”

His comments come after he received tremendous backlash for agreeing to perform at the event.

Before taking the stage, Nelly was greeted by President Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and their families, according to sources who spoke to Fox News Digital.

Alongside other artists such as Jason Aldean and Billy Ray Cyrus, the rapper performed at the Liberty Ball, one of the evening’s marquee inaugural events.

Earlier in the night, Nelly also attended the Commander In Chief Ball, which celebrates members of the U.S. military.

Throughout the evening, Nelly reportedly made an effort to connect with the military community, taking photos with officers and expressing his gratitude for their service. Fox News sources noted that Nelly’s connection to the military runs deep; he was born on a military base and has several family members who have served in the armed forces.

“They all served in the military for our democracy and the right for us all to vote. He has personally stayed away from politics and wouldn’t participate in campaigning for anyone, but this performance is for the highest office,” the source explained, adding that the 50-year-old artist views the opportunity as “an honor.”

Accompanied by dancers dressed as Secret Service agents, Nelly kicked off his performance with the iconic “Hail to the Chief” before transitioning into some of his biggest hits, including “Ride Wit Me” and “Hot in Herre.”

Over the weekend, Nelly found himself at the center of controversy after announcing his participation in inaugural celebrations. The St. Louis rapper addressed the backlash during a live conversation with fellow rapper Willie D, where he firmly stood by his decision.

“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 said. "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."

For Nelly, his performance at the inaugural celebrations is about showing respect for the office of the presidency, regardless of who holds the title.

“I’m not doing this for money. I’m doing this ’cause it’s an honor. I respect the office,” Nelly added. “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 put their life on the line for whoever [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 further clarified his stance, addressing speculation about his political alignment. “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,” he reiterated.

This isn’t the first time Nelly has referenced Trump. In his 2000 hit "Country Grammar," the rapper famously 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.”

While the lyric was likely a nod to Trump’s wealth and influence at the time, it highlights the rapper’s long-standing recognition of prominent figures in American culture.