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.

On Friday, Snoop Dogg and Rick Ross headlined the exclusive Crypto Ball, a black-tie event organized by crypto entrepreneur David Sacks, recently appointed by Trump as the “AI and Crypto Czar.” The two hip-hop legends reportedly accepted payment for their performances in Bitcoin, currently trading at a staggering $103,000 per coin.

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).

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.

Snoop Dogg, meanwhile, is getting dragged for agreeing to appear at a pre-inauguration event. According to The Root, the West Coast rapper will perform at the inaugural Crypto Ball hosted by Trump’s nominated “AI and Crypto Czar” David Sacks.

X is calling Rick Ross, Snoop Dogg, Soulja Boy and Nelly sellouts for performing at Donald Trump inauguration events.

Snoop Dog seemingly responded to backlash from netizens for performing at the Crypto Ball on Friday, January 17, 2025.

Soulja Boy defends performing at Trump's Crypto Ball, citing payment while admitting he was misled about the event's political nature.

Snoop Dogg addresses backlash on social media for performing at Trump’s "Crypto Ball," a pre-inauguration event in Washington, D.C.

Joining Nelly — who got dragged for his upcoming performance at Donald Trump’s inauguration on Monday (January 20) — rapper Soulja Boy is defending his choice to perform at Friday night’s (January 17) Crypto Ball,

Donald Trump's second inauguration on January 20 is slated to bring in some big acts for the festivities, including Carrie Underwood and Nelly.