Rhianna Benson
Like several other stars scheduled to perform at Donald Trump's inauguration later today, musician Nelly has found himself in hot water.
Interestingly, however, after catching wind of the criticism he's been subjected, he's released a rather savage statement online.
Trump will be sworn in as the US' 47th president later today (around 5.00pm UK time), in an indoor ceremony.
Advert
Organisers had intended for the event to take place on the Capitol lawn in front of a crowd of thousands, but the freezing temperatures in Washington DC have resulted in ticket-holders having their attendance cancelled.
As has been the case for decades, the inauguration will see a handful of chart-topping musicians performing.
Among them is country star Carrie Underwood, who previously told press she's 'honoured' to be a part of this 'historic event', despite backlash.
Kid Rock will also perform, sharing the stage with the Village People and Billy Ray Cyrus, as well as Greenwood and Liberty University's Praise Choir.
As we say, however, 50-year-old Grammy winner Nelly is also set to take part, and today he's laid out his stance on the matter following criticism from fans.
Speaking on the Geto Boys podcast to Willie D, the 'Dilemna' hit-maker began by arguing that 'the things you do' are considerably more important than 'the things you say should be done'.
The singer went on: "I didn’t know that I had to agree with your political choices. If you follow what I do, this shouldn’t even be an argument."
Speaking of 78-year-old Trump directly, he added: "He is the president. He won. I’m not doing this for money.
"I’m doing this because it’s an honour. I respect the office."
Nelly went on to say: "It don’t matter who is in office. The same way our brothers and sisters go to war to put their life on the line for whoever is in office.
"So, if they can put their life on the line for whoever is in office, I can damn sure perform for whoever is in office."
He also went on to address allegations that, by performing at the ceremony, he's endorsing a 'white supremacist' in Trump.
Demanding evidence for his support of the Republican politician, he added: "I'm not saying that he ain't got some f---ed up ways, that's why I'm not telling you who to vote for.
"What I'm saying is that he's the president of the United States. He's not the candidate for the United States - he's the president.
"He won."