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.

According to Celebrity Net Worth, Nelly's net worth in 2025 is a whopping $70 million—the result of album sales, sales of his alcohol brand, MoShine, and the 2023 sale of half his music catalog for $50 million, among other ventures.

"It is an honor for me to perform for the President of the United States, regardless of who is in office." Nelly wants fans to know that his decision to perform at the inauguration ball for President-elect Donald Trump has nothing to do with politics.

Nelly opens up about his controversial inauguration performance, revealing shocking personal insights and challenging public expectations.

Here are some facts about "Hot in Herre" artist Nelly amid backlash he's received for his decision to perform at Donald Trump's inauguration.

Nelly defended his decision to perform at Donald Trump’s inauguration Monday while speaking to HuffPost’s Phillip Lewis. “He’s the president. He won. This isn’t a campaign,” he said. “This isn’t an RNC. I’m not out on the political campaign. I didn’t get none of that 1.5. You see what I’m saying?”

Fans dig into the personal lives of their fans. Rightfully so, they expect them to represent certain values, and Trump is the opposite of those values. It may not be fair, but that is what is it. Judging Ashanti for Nelly’s choices is just wrong.

A longtime Ashanti fan page, Ashanti News, announced that it would no longer be covering the R&B star following the news that her husband and baby’s father, Nelly, will be performing at Donald Trump’s inauguration ball.

The Crypto Ball was hosted by David Sacks, who will be the new administration’s reigning expert on AI. It took place at the D.C.’s Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium. Ticket prices for the event went from $2,500 to $5,000 and the ball was billed as one to support the “first crypto president.”

Rascal Flatts, Jason Aldean, Nelly and the Village People are among the list of acts performing at the inaugural balls

Nelly defends his decision to perform at President Trump's inauguration ball after receiving backlash. Nelly tells NewsNation's "CUOMO" his performance is about "respect for the office." #Nelly #Donal