TLDR: Snoop Dogg and Nelly have faced backlash after performing at Trump inauguration events. Nelly defends his decision amidst political controversy.
Hip-hop legends Snoop Dogg and Nelly have found themselves at the centre of controversy following their participation in the Donald Trump inauguration events. From Snoop Dogg performing at the Inaugural Crypto Ball to Nelly defending his decision to take part in the celebrations, their involvement has sparked a wave of criticism.
In a recent performance at the Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium, Snoop Dogg took the stage alongside crypto executives to celebrate the incoming administration at the first ever Crypto Ball. Despite his previous critiques of Trump, including a fiery 2017 tirade against the then-president-elect, Snoop’s decision to appear at the event has not gone unnoticed. As USA TODAY reports, fans have expressed outrage, questioning the rapper’s credibility and aligning his actions with Trump’s controversial supporters. Critics took to social media, denouncing his involvement and even calling for boycotts of his music.
Meanwhile, Nelly has also been in the spotlight for his participation. In an interview with Willie D Live, he defended his involvement, likening it to serving the country’s office in a non-political manner. “If these people can give their life for the office, Nelly can perform,” he said (BuzzFeed, 2025). His comments, however, have done little to quell the backlash, with many pointing out the inherently political nature of such events.
The discussions surrounding both artists reflect a broader conversation about the intersection of politics and entertainment. Snoop Dogg’s evolution from vocal critic to performer for Trump’s supporters mirrors a complex relationship with politics, while Nelly’s stance emphasizes a more ambiguous perspective on his involvement.
Disclaimer: The views expressed in the above video are those of the YouTube content creator and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of HipHopCanada.
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