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Acclaimed rapper Nelly has been confirmed as a performer at one of the three official inaugural balls for President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration, according to an announcement made Saturday by the Trump Vance Inaugural Committee and verified by CBS News.
The St. Louis-born artist, Cornell Haynes II, known professionally as Nelly, brings his impressive musical legacy to the event. At age 49, the performer has achieved remarkable success in his career, including three Grammy Awards, nine Billboard Music Awards, and four songs that reached the number one position on the charts. His repertoire includes popular hits like “Hot in Herre” and “Just A Dream.”
WATCH🚨: Nelly responds to backlash for agreeing to perform at Donald Trump's inauguration celebration and challenges critics to show proof that Donald Trump is a white supremacist.
"I'm not doing this for money." pic.twitter.com/PeYUjvEjKo
— Officer Lew (@officer_Lew) January 19, 2025
The inaugural celebration will also feature country music star Carrie Underwood, who is scheduled to perform “America the Beautiful” during the swearing-in ceremony, as previously reported by Breitbart News.
Adding to the musical lineup, the Village People have confirmed their participation in the inaugural events. The group, famous for their hit “Y.M.C.A.,” which has become a staple at Trump campaign rallies, will join the celebration.
Nelly responds to backlash over performing at Trump’s inauguration:
“I’m not doing this for money. I’m doing this cause it’s an honor. I respect the office. It don’t matter who is in office. The same way our men and women, our brothers and sisters who protect this country, have… pic.twitter.com/teUKmzXstZ
— Pop Crave (@PopCrave) January 19, 2025
The day before the inauguration, Trump will attend the Make America Great Again Victory Rally at the Capitol One Arena in Chinatown. The event will showcase performances by Kid Rock, Billy Ray Cyrus, and Liberty University’s Praise Choir. The venue will also host a viewing party for the swearing-in ceremony the following day.
While numerous inaugural balls are scheduled around the inauguration period, the incoming president traditionally makes appearances at select events.