Nelly is choosing optimism as Donald Trump faces historically low approval ratings. At the 100-day mark, Trump’s rating hovered around 41%—the lowest for any president in over 70 years.
The backlash began when Nelly performed at Trump’s inauguration. The St. Louis rapper defended his choice, saying, “He’s the president — he won,” and framed it as respect for the office, not an endorsement.
At the Stagecoach Festival, he doubled down. “I’m always looking at the glass half full,” he told Fox News. “I believe in bringing people together and making sure we all get what we need.”
Not everyone was convinced. During a Grammy afterparty hosted by Anderson .Paak, Janelle Monáe freestyled over “Hot In Herre,” condemning Nelly’s appearance at the inauguration. In a clip that went viral, she called him a sellout and voiced support for marginalized communities.
In a later interview with Geto Boys legend Willie D, Nelly insisted his appearance wasn’t about money. “I’m not campaigning,” he said. “I respect the office, no matter who’s in it.”
He likened his performance to the duty of U.S. soldiers, saying, “If our men and women can risk their lives for the office, I can perform for it.”
Nelly also attempted to defend Trump from accusations of white supremacy, citing old lawsuits and mistakenly referencing the 1994 Crime Bill, which had no connection to Trump. His arguments showed some confusion, but he remained steadfast.
“I’m not saying he doesn’t have messed up ways,” Nelly admitted. “But he’s the President. I’m not telling you who to vote for—I’m just saying, he won.”
As debate continues around artists performing for divisive figures, Nelly stands by his actions, insisting it’s about honoring the role, not the man.
