Rapper Nelly is speaking to Fox News Digital after his performance at President Donald Trump's Liberty Ball, which garnered him backlash.

Antonio Moore discusses Trump’s inauguration, his orders, and Snoop & Nelly’s performances. Nelly insists his participation isn’t political.

The Crypto Ball was hosted by David Sacks, who will be the new administration’s reigning expert on AI. It took place at the D.C.’s Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium. Ticket prices for the event went from $2,500 to $5,000 and the ball was billed as one to support the “first crypto president.”

According to Celebrity Net Worth, Nelly's net worth in 2025 is a whopping $70 million—the result of album sales, sales of his alcohol brand, MoShine, and the 2023 sale of half his music catalog for $50 million, among other ventures.

Nelly also spoke about his experience as a child on a military base in Texas, praising his family members who have served in the U.S. armed forces. “If these people can give [their] life for the office, Nelly can perform,” he said. “It is an honor for me to perform for the president of the United States, regardless of who is in office.”

During the conversation with Willie D., the “Hot in Herre” singer also spoke directly to his critics, balking at the suggestion that Trump was a white supremacist. “I would ask them to show me where he’s a white supremacist,” Nelly retorted.

Tomorrow (January 20) marks the second inauguration of president-elect Donald Trump. But, this Inauguration Day’s festivities are attracting attention for a number of contrasting reasons. One of the most hotly debated points of discussion surrounds the day’s featured entertainment–which includes rappers Nelly and Snoop Dogg.

Fans dig into the personal lives of their fans. Rightfully so, they expect them to represent certain values, and Trump is the opposite of those values. It may not be fair, but that is what is it. Judging Ashanti for Nelly’s choices is just wrong.

Trump's decision to end diversity, equity and inclusion protections for minorities is the peak of white privilege.

Rapper Nelly has responded after facing backlash for his decision to perform at one of Donald Trump ’s inauguration balls on Monday (January 20). Citing sources, CBS reported on Friday that the “Dilemma” star was set to perform at the Inaugural Liberty Ball in Washington D.C.

Rapper Nelly spoke about his upcoming performance at President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration events Jan. 20, defending his decision amid backlash.