Snoop Dogg Responds to Backlash Over Pro-Trump Performance: “You Can’t Tear Me Down”
Snoop Dogg has broken his silence after receiving heavy criticism for performing at a pro-Donald Trump event earlier this month. The rap legend, known for his outspoken criticism of Trump during his presidency, faced backlash after taking the stage at the Crypto Ball, one of several inauguration events celebrating Trump’s return to the White House in Washington, D.C. The event also featured performances by Rick Ross and Soulja Boy.
The move sparked outrage across social media, with fans and critics alike accusing Snoop of hypocrisy given his previous remarks about Trump and Black artists who supported him. However, Snoop addressed the controversy head-on in a defiant video shared on Instagram on Sunday (January 26).
Snoop Speaks Out
“Y’all can’t hate enough me for me, I love too much. Get your life right, stop worrying about mine,” Snoop said in the video, adding, “I’m cool, I’m together. Still a Black man. Still a hundred percent Black. I ain’t going nowhere, cuh! I’m right here. Get the Crypto on Crip, though.”
Snoop didn’t hold back when addressing his Black critics, urging unity within the community. “We gotta learn to pick each other up instead of pulling each other down. That’s what we’re great at as Black people—we’re great at tearing each other down. You can be up one minute and they try to pull you down the next.”
The Doggfather continued, reinforcing his resilience: “But I’m a strong Black man, I’m cut from a different cloth. You can’t tear me down. I’m one of God’s children, and I’m taking the load.”
Social Media Reaction: Praise and Criticism
Despite his explanation, the backlash has been relentless. Some fans accused Snoop of being a sellout, referencing his previous condemnation of Black artists who performed at Trump’s first inauguration in 2017. One critic even described him as an “Uncle Tom” on social media, saying, “Who would have guessed that Snoop Dogg would end up being one of the ‘Uncle Tom ass n-ggers’ he himself railed against not long ago? What a f***ing sellout.”
Others defended Snoop’s decision, emphasizing that his choice to perform doesn’t diminish his contributions to the culture or his role as a Black icon. “People forget that artists have their reasons, and we don’t know the full story. Snoop’s done too much for the game to get canceled over this,” one fan wrote in his defense.
A Complicated Relationship with Trump
Snoop Dogg’s appearance at the pro-Trump event has left many confused, given his history of public criticism of the controversial politician. However, Snoop’s stance toward Trump has softened in recent years. Much of this shift can be traced back to early 2021, when Trump pardoned Michael “Harry O” Harris, the co-founder of Death Row Records, during his final days in office. Snoop had lobbied for the pardon, and it marked a turning point in his perspective on the former president.
In an interview with The Sunday Times last year, Snoop explained his changed stance: “Donald Trump? He ain’t done nothing wrong to me. He has done only great things for me. He pardoned Michael Harris. So I have nothing but love and respect for Donald Trump.”
Navigating Controversy and Legacy
While the backlash has been intense, Snoop Dogg remains steadfast in his decision, refusing to let public opinion dictate his actions. His response highlights his commitment to staying true to himself, even if it means facing criticism from fans and critics alike.
Snoop’s decision to perform at the Crypto Ball may remain controversial, but it’s a reminder that even cultural icons are multifaceted. Whether this marks a turning point in his public perception or a temporary bump in the road, one thing is clear: Snoop Dogg isn’t backing down. “You can’t tear me down,” he declared—and he means it.
