Nationwide — Snoop Dogg addressed the backlash from fans who criticized him for performing at one of Donald Trump’s pre-inauguration events. In a recent Instagram Live session, the rapper fired back at critics and shared his thoughts on the hate he’s been receiving.Snoop, 53, recently shared a live video while enjoying gospel music in his car, according to the New York Post. He responded to the criticism, saying, “For all the hate I’m going to answer with love, I love too much. Get your life right, stop worrying about mine. I’m cool. I’m together. Still a Black man. Still 100% Black. All out ’til you ball out or ’til you fall out.”
Though Snoop did not specifically mention Trump’s name, his comments came just after his performance at the Crypto Ball on January 17th, one of the events leading up to the inauguration. He used the moment to emphasize the importance of supporting one another, particularly within the Black community.
Snoop went on to say, “I’m a strong black man. I’m cut from a different cloth. You can’t tear me down. I’m one of God’s child [sic]. One of his children.”
The rapper’s performance, along with other artists like Rick Ross, Soulja Boy, and Nelly, sparked criticism, especially from the hip-hop community. The backlash led to a significant drop in Snoop’s social media following — over 500,000 on Instagram and nearly 20,000 on X.
However, Snoop received support from others, including sports commentator Stephen A. Smith. Nelly, who also performed at another inauguration event, explained his choice as a sign of respect for the office, not for financial reasons.
Snoop, who had been an outspoken critic of Trump in the past, shifted his perspective after Trump pardoned Death Row Records co-founder Michael Harris in 2021. In a 2024 interview, Snoop said, “He ain’t done nothing wrong to me. He has done only great things for me. So I have nothing but love and respect for Donald Trump.”
Snoop ended his Instagram Live with a message, “The only way to beat hate is with love. Learn from the Dogg. Teach you something every day.”