Nelly, the Grammy-winning rapper, recently found himself at the center of controversy after performing at the inauguration ball for President-elect Donald Trump. Born on a military base in Austin, Nelly has numerous family members who have served in the U.S. military, which he cited as a reason for his decision. He emphasized that his performance was not a political statement but rather an honor to perform for the president of the United States, regardless of who holds the office.
During a YouTube livestream with Willie D on Saturday night, Nelly addressed the backlash he faced for his participation in the inauguration festivities. He clarified his stance, stating that performing at the event did not equate to endorsing any political candidate.
"I'm not political. I'm not out here trying to tell anybody who they should vote for," Nelly asserted.
He further explained that his decision to perform was based on respect for the office of the presidency and not influenced by personal political beliefs.
"Performing for somebody and voting for somebody is two different things," Nelly remarked.
Nelly expressed his unwavering support for the president of the United States, emphasizing that he respects the office irrespective of the individual occupying it.
"I support the president of the United States regardless of who is in office. Regardless, I respect the office," he stated.
The rapper also made it clear that his choice to perform was not motivated by financial gain but rather by a sense of duty and honor.
"He's the president. He won. This isn't a campaign, this isn't [the] RNC… I’m not doing this for money. I’m doing this 'cause it’s an honor," Nelly explained.
Nelly also highlighted that if President Biden or Vice President Kamala Harris had extended an invitation to him, he would have gladly accepted and performed for them as well.
"If President Biden would've asked me to perform, I would've performed. If Vice President Kamala Harris would've won and asked me to perform, I would've performed," he noted.
Throughout the conversation with Willie D, Nelly reiterated that his actions were not intended as a political endorsement but rather as a demonstration of respect for those who serve the country, including his own family members.
"If these people can give [their] life for the office, Nelly can perform. It is an honor for me to perform for the president of the United States, regardless of who is in office," he affirmed.
