Rapper Snoop Dogg is facing significant backlash from fans and critics alike after performing at Donald Trump’s “Crypto Ball” in Washington, D.C. on Friday, January 17, 2025. This event, held just days before Trump’s official inauguration, was part of the president-elect’s campaign to position himself as a “crypto president.”
Snoop headlined the event alongside other notable artists such as Rick Ross, Soulja Boy, and Nelly. During his set, Snoop performed some of his greatest hits while also DJing for the crowd. The rapper appeared relaxed and carefree, even singing along to Bob Marley’s “Three Little Birds.”
Snoop Dogg’s transformation from a vocal critic to a supporter of Donald Trump has been a surprising journey that unfolded over several years. This shift in perspective can be attributed to a few key factors:
Trump’s Pardon of Michael Harris
The turning point in Snoop’s attitude towards Trump came in 2021 when the then-president pardoned Michael “Harry-O” Harris, a co-founder of Death Row Records. Harris had been serving a lengthy sentence for conspiracy and attempted murder charges. This act of clemency deeply impressed Snoop, who had a personal connection to Harris through the record label that launched his career.
Shift in Public Statements
In January 2024, Snoop made headlines when he expressed his newfound appreciation for Trump in an interview with The Sunday Times. He stated, “Donald Trump? He ain’t done nothing wrong to me. He has done only great things for me. He pardoned Michael Harris.” This marked a significant departure from his previous criticisms of the former president.
Performance at the Crypto Ball
The most recent and public display of Snoop’s support for Trump came with his performance at the pre-inauguration “Crypto Ball” in January 2025. This event, celebrating Trump’s return to office and his pro-cryptocurrency stance, featured Snoop as a headliner alongside other artists like Rick Ross and Soulja Boy.
Fan Reaction
The reaction from Snoop’s fanbase has been largely negative. Many fans expressed disappointment and anger on social media platforms. Some accused Snoop of hypocrisy, citing his previous opposition to Trump. They feel that Snoop’s performance at a Trump-affiliated event goes against the values and beliefs they thought he represented. Snoop’s actions have also been labeled as “culturally embarrassing and disrespectful,” as critics have asserted that other late rap legends like Tupac Shakur and Nipsey Hussle would never have supported Trump.
Critics accuse Snoop of “playing both sides for a check and some clout,” suggesting that his support is financially motivated rather than genuine. Others went as far as deleting Snoop’s music from their playlists.
Others went as far as deleting Snoop’s music from their playlists.
Snoop’s Response
Despite the criticism, Snoop Dogg seems unfazed by the backlash. He took to Instagram to respond, sharing a video with the caption: “Got a real Crip up in the Crypto Ball, bang bang.” This cavalier attitude has only fueled further criticism from his fans.
Context and Implications
This performance marks a significant shift in Snoop’s public stance towards Trump. In 2017, Snoop released a music video depicting a clown resembling Trump in a negative light.
However, his relationship with the president-elect appears to have changed, possibly influenced by Trump’s clemency grant to Death Row Records founder Michael “Harry-O” Harris.
Perhaps Snoop is what Trump would call a “cheap date.”
Just throw the Dogg a bone and he’ll be a friend for life.
The “Crypto Ball” itself was a high-profile event, with ticket prices ranging from $2,500 to $5,000. It served as a networking hub for cryptocurrency enthusiasts and policymakers, highlighting Trump’s push for cryptocurrency integration into the U.S. financial system. As the controversy continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how this performance will impact Snoop Dogg’s career and public image in the long term