Nelly looking to President Trump to step up, serve, and lift us all after rapper faced backlash for inaugural ball performance
After facing backlash for agreeing to perform at President Donald Trump’s inaugural ball, and then consequently defending himself, rapper Nelly is looking to the commander in chief to guide and “lift” the nation.“It was an honor to have performed for the highest office in the greatest nation,” Nelly exclusively told Fox News Digital of his performance on Monday.“Now we look to the president to step up, serve, and lift us all.”Before taking the stage, Nelly was greeted by President Trump, Vice President JD Vance and their families, a source shared with Fox News Digital.The rapper, along with other artists, including Jason Aldean and Billy Ray Cyrus, performed at the Liberty Ball following the inauguration.
Ahead of his performance, Nelly, whose real name is Cornell Iral Haynes Jr., attended the Commander In Chief Ball.A source said throughout the evening that Nelly took photos with military officers and thanked them for their service.The source had previously disclosed to Fox News Digital that the rapper, who was born on a military base, had several family members who served, a sentiment noted in his entrance on stage.Accompanied by his dancers dressed as Secret Service, Nelly started the show by playing the famous “Hail to the Chief” song, before performing a series of his biggest hits, including “Ride Wit Me” and “Hot in Herre.” His dancers later wore hats emblazoned with “USA.”Over the weekend, Nelly faced backlash for his decision to join in the inaugural celebrations.
“I’m not doing this for money.I’m doing this ’cause it’s an honor.
I respect the office,” the St.Louis native said in a live conversation with fellow rapper, Willie D. “It don’t matter who is in office.
The same way that our men and women, our brothers and sisters who protect this country, have to go to war and have to put their life on the line for whoever [is] in office,” he continued. “So, if they can put their life on the line for wh...