Nationwide — Multi-platinum selling rapper Nelly is calling for unity amid ongoing controversy surrounding Donald Trump’s presidency. In an interview with Fox News, the St. Louis native explained why he chose to perform at Trump’s Liberty Ball in January, emphasizing that his decision was rooted in promoting togetherness and respecting the office of the presidency, not endorsing any political figure.“I’m a glass-half-full type of guy,” Nelly shared. “I’m more empowered by bringing people together and making sure we all get what we need, when we need it, and why we need it.” His remarks come in response to social media backlash after he took the stage at the Liberty Ball, with some fans expressing disappointment over the event.
However, Nelly, who is married to singer Ashanti, said his performance had nothing to do with politics. In a prior conversation with fellow rapper Willie D, he explained that the opportunity represented a broader message. “I’m not doing this for money. I’m doing this because it’s an honor,” he said. “It don’t matter who is in office. Our brothers and sisters in the military go to war and risk their lives for whoever is in charge. If they can do that, I can perform.”
Nelly’s respect for the military stems from personal experience. Born on a military base, the rapper comes from a family of servicemen and women, including his father, uncles, and aunts. A source close to him said that upbringing plays a significant role in shaping his views on service, duty, and pride in country.
Although Nelly steers clear of political campaigns and refuses to align with any party, he sees events like the Liberty Ball as moments to rise above partisanship. “The politics, for me, is over. He won. He’s the president,” he said. “He’s the commander in chief of what I believe is still the best country in the world.”
Through his actions, Nelly is urging Americans to look past political divisions and focus instead on shared values and mutual respect.