Kevin Powell Accuses Snoop Dogg of Selling Out at Trump Inauguration
Acclaimed writer and activist Kevin Powell has publicly criticized rapper Snoop Dogg for performing at a pre-inauguration event for President-elect Donald Trump. Powell expressed his disapproval during an interview on “TMZ Live,” stating that Snoop’s decision to perform indicates a “lack of values.” He emphasized that Snoop’s actions suggest he has abandoned his audience “for a bag of money.”
Powell also extended his criticism to other artists participating in Trump’s inaugural celebrations, including Carrie Underwood. He argued that by aligning with someone who has exhibited “sexist, homophobic, racist, transphobic, and xenophobic values,” these artists are disregarding the diverse fan bases that have supported them throughout their careers.
This backlash arises from Snoop Dogg’s previous outspoken criticism of Trump. In 2017, Snoop released a music video depicting a mock assassination of a clown dressed as Trump, which drew condemnation from Trump himself. Additionally, Snoop had criticized artists planning to perform at Trump’s 2017 inauguration, labeling them with derogatory terms.
Despite the criticism, some artists have defended their participation in the inauguration events. Singer Bobby Valentino stated that a performance does not necessarily indicate political support, asserting that “a gig is just a gig at the end of the day.”