Soulja Boy: I was paid to perform at Trump’s inaugural party

American rapper Soulja Boy has addressed the controversy surrounding his decision to perform at Donald Trump’s inauguration ball.

Alongside fellow artists Nelly and Snoop Dogg, the rapper faced widespread criticism from fans who accused them of betraying their trust by accepting the invitation to perform at the event.

Social media was flooded with disappointment and outrage, with many questioning their motivations.

Soulja Boy explains his decision
In response to the backlash, Soulja Boy took to Instagram Live to clarify his stance. He admitted that his participation was purely motivated by financial gain.

“They paid me a bag,” he stated unapologetically. The rapper further highlighted the lack of financial support he received from prominent Democratic leaders, saying, “Obama never put money in my pockets. Kamala never put money in my pockets. Trump did.”

His candid comments sparked mixed reactions online, with some praising his honesty and others criticizing him for prioritizing money over principles.

Nelly takes a different stance
Nelly, another performer at the inauguration ball, offered a contrasting perspective. Unlike Soulja Boy, Nelly claimed his participation wasn’t about the paycheck.

He described the performance as an act of honor and a way to represent himself and his artistry.

However, his explanation did little to quell the criticism, as many fans argued that his presence still sent the wrong message about his values.

Snoop Dogg remains silent
Meanwhile, Snoop Dogg, who also performed at one of Trump’s inauguration balls, has yet to address the controversy.

His silence has left fans speculating about his reasons for participating and whether they align with those of Soulja Boy or Nelly.

Fans debate celebrity responsibility
The controversy has reignited debates about the role of celebrities in politically charged events. Many fans believe that artists have a responsibility to consider how their actions influence public opinion.

Critics argue that performing at such an event could be seen as endorsing the host’s politics and policies.

On the other hand, some argue that artists should be free to separate their professional work from their personal beliefs.

A divided public reaction
Soulja Boy’s explanation has drawn a sharp divide among fans and commentators. While some appreciate his transparency and pragmatic approach to his career, others feel that his decision undermines the trust fans place in public figures.

Nelly’s defense and Snoop Dogg’s silence have only added to the complex dynamics of the controversy.

A lesson in the spotlight
As discussions continue, the situation highlights the challenges celebrities face when navigating the intersection of art, politics, and personal values.

Whether the artists will address the criticisms further or attempt to rebuild trust with their fans remains to be seen.

For now, the debate serves as a stark reminder of the fine line public figures must walk in the court of public opinion.

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