Nelly is a rapper and country music star On Jason's side He took the stage at the Liberty Ball on Monday night, honoring President Trump on his inauguration as the 47th President of the United States.
Played Nelly A series of his biggest hits, including “Ride Wit Me” and “Hot in Herre,” were performed while on stage. He also took time to get to know those affected by the California fires.
Before his performance, the 50-year-old rapper faced backlash from the audience.
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Nelly performed many of his songs at the Liberty Ball. (Mika Scafari/Film Magic/Getty Images)
“I'm not doing this for the money. I'm doing this because it's an honor. I respect the position,” the St. Louis native said. Live chat With fellow rapper Willie D.
“It doesn't matter who's in office. The same way our men and women, our brothers and sisters who protect this country, have to go to war and have to put their lives on the line for anyone in office.” The rapper, who was born on a military base, continued.
“So, if they can put their lives on the line for anyone in office, I can certainly do their part for anyone in office.”
“I'm not doing this for the money. I'm doing this because it's an honor. I respect the position.”
A source close to the artist told Fox News Digital that in addition to his father, Nelly's aunts and uncles “all served in the military for our democracy and the right of all of us to vote. He has personally stayed away from politics and will not do so.” Participation in election campaigns is for anyone, but this performance is for the highest office,” she said, reaffirming that the 50-year-old considers performing “an honour.”
During a conversation with Willie D.Hot in HareThe singer also spoke directly to his critics, rejecting the suggestion that Trump was a white supremacist. “I would ask them to explain to me where he is a white supremacist,” Nelly responded.
Rapper Nelly attends the Baby2Baby Gala at Pacific Design Center in West Hollywood, California, on November 9, 2024. (Michael Tran/AFP via Getty Images)
“Politics for me is over. He won! He's the president,” the rapper said earlier in the conversation. “He is the commander-in-chief of what I would say is the best country in the world.”
“It is an honor to perform for the President of the United States, regardless of who is in office. If President Biden had asked me to perform, I would have performed. If Vice President Kamala Harris had won and he had asked me to perform, I would have performed.”
Aldean performed several songs in Washington, D.C. before Nelly took the stage.
Jason Aldean wore all black when he took the stage at the Liberty Ball after President Trump's inauguration. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nickinson)
Fans took to social media during the country star's performance to praise him on his show.
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“Jason Aldean gives a great show at the Liberty Ball,” one user wrote.
Another added: “@JasonAldean, @BrittanyAldean Jason Aldean gives a great performance at the Liberty Ball. What a performance!!! Entertainer 100%!!!”
During his performance, Aldean stopped the show to address a medical emergency in the audience.
Jason Aldean wowed the audience when he performed at the Liberty Ball. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nickinson)
“Guys, hey security or whatever, we've got someone here I think. We've got a medical deal, a medical emergency or something going on here,” Aldean said as the show was paused.
Once the country star was sure the person was receiving medical care, he returned to singing “She's Country.”
Early Monday morning, Carrie Underwood performed “America the Beautiful” at the 60th presidential inauguration, held this year inside the rotunda of the U.S. Capitol.
The country music star was forced to improvise after no music cue started.
Underwood, who was standing in front of former President Joe Biden, quickly determined that the accompanying music track wasn't working, leaving her to improvise.
Carrie Underwood performs “America The Beautiful” at the inauguration. (Chip Somodevila/Getty Images)
“If you know the words, help me out here,” she began before singing a cappella. After her performance, she applauded those who sang before her before turning and shaking Biden's hand.
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Then she shared a moment with Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance Before leaving the room.
Last week, Underwood, who has removed herself from the political scene, confirmed that she would do so Performing at Trump's inauguration.
Carrie Underwood performed “America the Beautiful” after President Trump was sworn in as the 47th President of the United States on January 20, 2025. (Saul Loeb/Pool via Reuters)
The country star said in a statement, “I love our country and I am honored to be asked to sing at the inauguration ceremony and be a small part of this historic event.”
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“I am honored to answer the call at a time when we must all come together in a spirit of unity and looking to the future.”
Fox News Digital's Carolyn Thayer contributed to this report.
