By Page Six | Created at 2025-01-19 20:34:31 | Updated at 2025-01-19 23:17:02
2 hours ago
Nelly is riding with Donald Trump.
The rapper defended his decision to perform at one of the president-elect’s inaugural balls after receiving a torrent of criticism from fans.
“I respect the office. This isn’t politics,” the “Hot in Herre” hitmaker said in a “Willie D Live” interview posted on YouTube Sunday.
“The politics, for me, it’s over. He won. He’s the president, he’s the commander-in-chief, of what I would like to say, is the best country in the world. It is an honor for me to perform for the president of the United States, regardless of who is in office.”
Nelly, 50, also further argued that his choice was apolitical.
“If President Biden would have asked me to perform, I would have performed,” he explained, noting he appeared alongside Vice President and Democratic nominee Kamala Harris at a Juneteenth event.
Earlier this week, the “Air Force Ones” emcee’s Instagram account was flooded with negative comments on a post promoting his upcoming tour.
“Unfollowing Maga clown🤦♀️,” one person commented, while another posted, “I won’t be supporting this mess. Hope MAGA buy your tickets to the has been tour.”
Despite his upcoming performance, Nelly claimed he was not in full support of Trump.
“I’m not saying he ain’t got some f–ked up ways,” he said about the incoming president — who is a convicted felon. “That’s not what I’m saying at all.
“That’s why I’m not telling you who to vote for but I’m saying is that he’s the president of the United States. He’s not the candidate for the United States, he’s the president. He won.”
Carrie Underwood will also be performing at the inauguration in Washington, DC, where she is slated to sing “America the Beautiful.”
“I love our country and am honored to have been asked to sing at the Inauguration and to be a small part of this historic event,” the country singer said in a statement obtained by Page Six.
“I am humbled to answer the call at a time when we must all come together in the spirit of unity and looking to the future.”
Kid Rock and the Village People will also be performing.
