Rappers Snoop Dogg and Nelly are making waves by performing at President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration events, marking a notable shift in their relationships with the controversial figure. Snoop Dogg, known for his outspoken criticism of Trump and his MAGA supporters, will make a surprise appearance at the inaugural “Crypto Ball” on Friday night, while Nelly is set to take the stage at the official Inaugural Liberty Ball on Monday.
This unexpected turn of events has raised eyebrows, especially considering Snoop Dogg’s past public comments about the president-elect. The performances by both artists highlight an intriguing development, with Snoop Dogg’s participation signaling a dramatic evolution in his stance toward Trump. It’s a shift that’s sure to stir up discussion.
What You Need to Know: A Night at the Crypto Ball
The inaugural “Crypto Ball” was held on Friday at the Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium in Washington D.C., with a high-profile guest list. Tickets for the event ranged from $2,500 to $5,000, reflecting its status as an exclusive gathering. The event was hosted by incoming White House AI and "Crypto Czar" David Sacks, an influential tech figure. Snoop Dogg, donning a sleek black jacket with gold buttons and a bowtie, took the stage and performed his signature hits like "Drop It Like It’s Hot." As a DJ, he mixed crowd favorites, from Journey’s "Don’t Stop Believin’" to Bob Marley’s classic "Three Little Birds," creating an unforgettable atmosphere for the guests.
Notable attendees included rapper Rick Ross and UFC star Colby Covington, both of whom contributed to the high-energy vibe of the event. It was a night to remember, as the star-studded audience reveled in the music and the celebratory mood.
Nelly Joins the Inaugural Liberty Ball Lineup
Meanwhile, Grammy Award-winning rapper Nelly is also set to perform at a different, yet equally prestigious event—the Inaugural Liberty Ball on Monday. Nelly, best known for his chart-topping hit “Hot in Herre,” will entertain guests at one of the three official inaugural celebrations scheduled for the day. This event, like the Crypto Ball, is expected to be a glittering affair, and the addition of Nelly to the lineup speaks volumes about the blend of entertainment and politics surrounding the inauguration.
For many, Nelly’s involvement might seem like an intriguing choice, as his decision to participate in a Trump inauguration marks a striking contrast to his usual public persona. As one of the most successful rappers of the 2000s, Nelly’s career trajectory has seen him perform at countless major events, but this one, linked to such a politically charged figure, raises questions about the intersection of celebrity and politics.
Snoop Dogg’s Changing View on Trump
Snoop Dogg’s relationship with President-elect Donald Trump has been anything but smooth in the past. In 2017, Snoop released a controversial music video that featured a Trump-inspired clown character, a clear criticism of the president. In that same period, Snoop spoke out against Black artists who might align themselves with Trump, expressing frustration over what he saw as the divisiveness of Trump’s politics.
However, a dramatic shift in Snoop Dogg’s stance occurred after Trump made headlines for commuting the prison sentence of Michael “Harry-O” Harris, the founder of Death Row Records. Harris had been serving a lengthy sentence for attempted murder and drug trafficking when Trump decided to grant him clemency on his final day in office. For Snoop, this act seemed to signal a change in his perspective.
The rapper, who had previously clashed with Trump over political views, was appreciative of the president-elect’s decision to pardon Harris. This act of clemency was a pivotal moment in Snoop’s evolving views, as he worked alongside activist Alice Johnson and producer Weldon Angelos to advocate for Harris’s release. The Daily Beast reported that Snoop, despite their past conflicts, expressed gratitude for the decision, acknowledging the positive impact it had on Harris and his community.
In a 2024 interview with The Sunday Times, Snoop Dogg made a public statement that further solidified his newfound respect for Trump. He said, "Ain't done nothing wrong to me. He has done only great things for me. He pardoned Michael Harris. So, I have nothing but love and respect for Donald Trump." This newfound appreciation for the president-elect’s actions has clearly influenced Snoop’s decision to perform at the Crypto Ball and play a role in the upcoming inaugural celebrations.
Reactions: Fans and Critics Sound Off
Not everyone is thrilled about Snoop Dogg’s shift in political allegiance. On social media, some fans voiced their disappointment, calling his participation in Trump’s inaugural events “culturally embarrassing” and “disrespectful.” Many took to platforms like Instagram and X (formerly Twitter) to express their displeasure, with one user commenting, “Nipsey and Pac would never!!!” referencing the late rap icons Nipsey Hussle and Tupac Shakur, who were known for their activism and strong social justice stances.
Podcast host Ryan Snead also expressed dismay, posting, “Yo @SnoopDogg What made you go from this to simping for a felon, business fraud, rapist, and accused pedophile who failed to deliver the first time around?” Such reactions highlight the tensions between celebrity culture and political affiliations, where fans often expect their favorite stars to take a firm stand on societal issues.
Other critics, like combat veteran and fan Travis Matthew, couldn’t hide their disappointment, adding, “I never thought I’d have Snoop Dogg being a Trump supporter on my bingo card... What a f****** disappointment.” These comments underscore the high expectations many people have for public figures when it comes to taking a moral stand on important issues.
However, some Trump supporters were more welcoming of the rappers' involvement. One user on X wrote, "People are seeing the light finally," while another joked, welcoming Snoop to “the winning team.” These comments reveal the polarizing nature of Snoop and Nelly’s participation in Trump’s events, with reactions divided along political lines.
Looking Ahead: Trump’s Second Inauguration
As President-elect Donald Trump prepares for his second inauguration on Monday, January 20, the stage is set for an event that promises a mix of entertainment and political significance. The Inaugural Liberty Ball, where Nelly is slated to perform, is just one of several major events marking the occasion. In addition to Nelly, the inauguration festivities will feature country music sensation Carrie Underwood, who will sing "America the Beautiful," and opera singer Christopher Macchio, who will perform the national anthem. The Village People, iconic for their generational hit "Y.M.C.A.," will also make an appearance, with their song often featured at Trump rallies.
As the nation prepares for another inauguration, it’s clear that these performances by Snoop Dogg and Nelly are not just about the music—they’re a reflection of how celebrity culture and politics can collide in surprising ways. For Snoop, in particular, it’s a significant moment in his career, one that shows his capacity for growth and change, despite the controversies that have followed him throughout his career.
In the end, whether you agree with their choices or not, Snoop Dogg and Nelly’s participation in Trump’s inaugural celebrations is an undeniable shift in the cultural and political landscape, one that will likely be talked about for years to come.
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