Despite criticism from some followers, rapper Nelly has justified his decision to perform at President Donald Trump’s inauguration.
In an interview with a White House reporter on CBS, he thanked the President for the invitation, adding that it was an honor to entertain guests at such a national event.
READ ALSO: Nelly And Ashanti: Celebrity Couple To Turn Love Affair Into TV Series
“You know, I feel honored to be here tonight. Again, my performance is definitely for the office. I feel honored that I’ve been asked, and yeah, man, I’m here to have a good time,” he was quoted.
Nelly added that his decision was not influenced by politics but “respect” for the Office of the President.
Related stories
“It’s not political for me. For me, the political part is over. He won. And, you know, growing up, I was taught to respect the office,” he added.
READ ALSO: Nelly Sued For Not Giving Former Band Members Songwriting Credit
The Country Grammer said not everyone agrees with his decision, but he believes his participation at the event would send a good message to people with different opinions and perspectives.
“I think certain people have an outlook, and I’ve always believed that you got to walk through the fire sometimes to get results…
“…and regardless of what you feel about it, we as a people, and I mean, you know, my heritage, as far as being African American, we’ve always had to work with people that we may not have always agreed with to get things done” he said.
READ ALSO: Nelly And Ashanti Light Up Stage At Annual Black And White Charity Event
He added: “…but at the end of the day, if the men and women of this country can put their life on the line for a president that they may not have voted for. I can definitely perform for the office.”
Nelly had previously spoken about his decision to perform at the inauguration in a radio interview on January 18 and rejected claims that he accepted “money” to perform for President Trump.
“I’m not doing this for money. I’m doing this because it’s an honor. I respect the office. It does not matter who is in office,” he stated.
Recently, Nelly and Ashanti revealed plans to turn their love affair into a TV series after celebrating the arrival of their first child.
The project, according to sources, is in the pipeline and will be available on the streaming outlet Peacock.
Spearheaded by the company known as Critical Content, the celebrity couple also serves as executive producers together with other notable personalities.
