R&B and hip-hop artist Nelly, along with country singer Carrie Underwood, have come under public scrutiny for agreeing to perform at President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration.

Nelly and Underwood addressed the criticism they faced after confirming their participation in the inauguration, citing their respect for the office and country as the driving forces behind their decisions, as Fox News reports.

Scheduled to perform at the Liberty Ball on Monday as part of the inauguration events, Nelly has received widespread backlash. Despite the controversy, he maintains that his performance is not financially motivated. “It’s an honor,” Nelly said, emphasizing his profound respect for the U.S. presidency.

Nelly expressed his belief that respect for the office is independent of political affiliation. He conveyed that his commitment to perform is rooted in an understanding of the presidency as a crucial institution. His personal ties to the military, through family members who have served, deepen this respect for the presidency.

Nelly's View on Civic Duty

The artist stated plainly that his willingness to perform would extend to any president, regardless of party. His respect for the role remains steadfast, seeing it as parallel to the dedication shown by military personnel, whom he admiringly referenced. For Nelly, the politics are concluded; as he pointed out, Trump had won and would be the commander in chief.

Nelly expressed pride in being able to perform for the president, mentioning that the honor would not change regardless of the political outcome.

He mentioned hypothetical scenarios in which if other prominent political figures such as President Joe Biden or Vice President Kamala Harris had extended the invitation, he would have accepted it without hesitation.

Country artist Carrie Underwood also took the stage to perform “America the Beautiful.” While she too faced criticism, Underwood shared that her decision stemmed from a deep love for her country and the desire to participate in a significant event in its history.

Carrie Underwood's Perspective on Unity

Underwood acknowledged that she was “humbled” to be part of such a historic occasion, emphasizing the need for unity and hope for the future. Her sentiments echoed Nelly’s, although rooted in her unique experience and love for the United States.

She described her performance as a call to togetherness, which she finds significant amid the current political climate. Underwood’s participation captures her commitment to her values of honor and patriotism.

In addition to Nelly and Underwood, other artists such as Kid Rock, Billy Ray Cyrus, and Lee Greenwood were expected to perform at the inauguration.

Greenwood, known for his patriotic songs, offered support to Underwood amid the negativity she faced.

Lee Greenwood Weighs In

Greenwood defended Underwood’s decision and condemned the negative backlash. He urged critics to remain silent and recognized Underwood’s participation as aligned with his own reasons for showing up.

He saw this as a shared effort to inaugurate the 47th president of the United States, something everyone should support.

As Inauguration Day draws near, the discussions surrounding performer participation continue to highlight broader conversations on civic duty and national pride, themes that Nelly and Underwood both aim to underscore through their performances.

Nelly and Underwood have found themselves in a unique position to contribute to the ceremony despite public disapproval. Their stance not only integrates them into the events but also fuels ongoing dialogues about presidential respect and the artist's role in political events.

The artists’ decision to perform at the inauguration sheds light on the complexities of personal beliefs intersecting with public expectations. Each artist brings their personal reasoning and dedication to the presidential tradition, seeking to emphasize the honor they associate with serving their country in any capacity.

Ultimately, Nelly and Underwood hope their performances reiterate their respect and love for the country, presenting an opportunity for them to engage in a significant national moment.