Nelly Justifies His Performance at Donald Trump’s Inauguration: “It’s an Honor”

Nelly defends performance at inauguration

Nelly defended her choice to perform at Donald Trump's upcoming inauguration party, describing it as an “honor.”

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Details on the event and lineup

The St. Louis rapper will participate in the second Republican inauguration at the U.S. Capitol on Monday (Jan. 20), although due to expectations of dangerously cold weather, the event has been moved indoors.

Other artists involved include Carrie Underwood, Kid Rock, Billy Ray Cyrus, Village People, and Jason Aldean.

Nelly addresses criticism

Nelly responded to criticisms of his involvement during a recent interview with Geto Boys' Willie D, stating that “what you do” is more significant than “what you say should be done.”

“I didn’t know I had to agree with your political choices,” he continued. “If you follow what I do, this shouldn't even be an argument. He's the president. He won.”

“I don't do this for the money. I do this because it's an honor. I respect the office. It doesn't matter who is in power. In the same way, our brothers and sisters go to war to risk their lives for those in power. So if they can put their lives on the line for whoever is in power, I can sure as hell get the job done for whoever is in power.”

In the statement (via Deadline), event organizers Steve Witkoff and Kelly Loeffler described the inauguration as “a celebration of music, unity and patriotism, ushering in a new golden age for America.”

Trump's 2017 inauguration featured performances by the Rockettes, the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, and America's Got Talent singer Jackie Evancho. Aretha Franklin performed at Obama's first inauguration in 2009, while Beyoncé and Kelly Clarkson sang at his second inauguration in 2013.

Earlier this week, Village People expressed their views on their inclusion, stating they agreed to perform because they believe “music should be performed without regard to politics.” They also acknowledged that while the appearance “will not please some of you,” they hope it “will help unite the country after a turbulent and divided campaign in which our preferred candidate lost.”

Meanwhile, Nelly is gearing up for a tour in the UK and Europe this summer, with dates in Birmingham, London, Manchester, Glasgow, and Dublin. Find remaining tickets Here.