In response to the backlash, Nelly went on Willie D Live to justify why he should be absolved of any criticism or guilt at Trump's inauguration, and his reasons were puzzling, to say the least.

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.

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.

Nelly defended his decision to perform at Donald Trump’s inauguration Monday while speaking to HuffPost’s Phillip Lewis. “He’s the president. He won. This isn’t a campaign,” he said. “This isn’t an RNC. I’m not out on the political campaign. I didn’t get none of that 1.5. You see what I’m saying?”

Nelly isn’t the only rapper to participate in Trump’s inauguration festivities. Earlier this weekend, it was widely reported that Snoop Dogg, Rick Ross and Soulja Boy performed at the president-elect’s Crypto Ball pre-inaugural soiree in Washington, D.C., at the Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium on Friday (Jan. 17).

It is an honor for me to perform for the president of the United States, regardless of who is in office,” the rapper said.

Nelly is speaking out against critics who have denounced his performance at tomorrow’s Liberty Inaugural Ball, one of three official balls celebrating Donald Trump’s return to the presidency. The St.

I’m not doing this for money,” Nelly stated firmly during the interview. “This is about standing up for what I believe in and taking an opportunity to engage in dialogue—not division.”

Rapper Nelly is addressing backlash after he announced he will perform at an inaugural ball following President-elect Donald Trump's swearing-in.

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

Nelly is reportedly slated to perform at one of three official inaugural events for Donald Trump, according to CBS News. He’ll be at Trump’s Liberty Ball, scheduled for Monday.