Hip-hop artist Nelly (Cornell Iral Haynes Jr.) has found himself at the center of a heated debate following his announcement that he will perform at President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration on Monday, January 20, 2025. Despite criticism from fans and peers, the rapper stood by his decision during an interview with Willie D Live, emphasizing that his performance is about honoring the presidency, not politics.
“I thought you were riding for me because I put on for my city. I didn’t know I had to agree with your political choices,” Nelly explained. “If you follow what I do, this shouldn’t even be an argument. He’s the president. He won.”
Nelly went on to challenge accusations that his choice was financially motivated, stating, “I’m not doing this for money. I’m doing this because it’s an honor. I respect the office. It don’t matter who is in office. The same way our brothers and sisters go to war to put their lives on the line for whoever is in office, I can damn sure perform for whoever is in office.”
The interview has sparked a wave of reactions on social media. While some fans have applauded his stance, others remain critical. One user on X (formerly Twitter) wrote, “This isn’t a good look, bruh. You should’ve just stayed quiet.” Another added, “People only seem to unite when hate is involved, and it’s always against their own. This is crazy.”
Nelly is set to join country music star Carrie Underwood and iconic disco group The Village People for the inauguration ceremony, which will now take place inside the U.S. Capitol rotunda due to freezing temperatures and high winds.
Nigerian gospel sensation Sinach has been confirmed as a performer for the World Leaders Peace and Harmony Ball, scheduled for January 20-21, 2025, at the Capital Hilton Hotel.
