Ludacris and Nelly draw backlash over bookings at MAGA-coded music festival

Ludacris and Nelly headlining a mostly right-wing event is good for them. It’s also great for the genre of hip hop. The two rap veterans have showcased their talents on other stages. Why can’t they perform for mostly MAGA folks and grab that bag?

Both artists have southern or midwestern roots. Their music has engaged “hip pop” audiences for over two decades now. Their presence at the mostly rock and country venues just shows their love of the nation.

If anything, they’re patriots out to get a dollar by displaying their talents. While the fellow headliners may cater to an audience that might have voted for President Trump, Nelly and Ludacris should just focus on remembering rhymes from decades ago and keep the crowd engaged.

When it comes to art and politics, it should be stated the whole point is to maintain your integrity and still get paid. Who knows what Nelly and Ludacris’ politics are? Who cares? Both have sold millions of records in their respective careers. They’ve done so by being true to themselves and respecting those who listen to their music.

As people line up to see Kid Rock and Blake Shelton, they’re also going to hear raps from legends like Ludacris and Nelly. While some may see them as traitors, they’re going to miss out on how the rap gods will perform for people older and younger than their target demographic. Grandparents and grandkids might not have ever heard of the hip hop heavyweights. This will be an opportunity for them to showcase their skills and open up a new avenue for gaining revenue.

Both rappers can tap into the heartland of America. Their abilities to control the crowd have deep roots in this country. As Foundational Black Americans (FBA), they know the history of this country and that presenting to a different culture will shock others and delight mostly everyone.

Their accessibility in the culture including Nelly’s classic duet with country artist Tim McGraw “Over and Over” and Ludacris’ “Southern Hospitality” should grow on the concertgoers. They’re both men of color who happen to live in America. They’ve done extremely well for themselves over the years and have made a definite impact on the culture at large.

This is the reason they have received top billing for their efforts. Ludacris and Nelly know how to craft hits. Their catalogs remain deep and there’s a direct link between the hip hop nation and their talents. This has to extend to other audiences who would like to see them live and understand better their roles in music history.

It’s obvious that this looks like a money grab and they’re out to soak up the dollars. They, however, look poised to bring their messages of fun and good vibes to people who just want to have a good time.

Is that so wrong? These two hip hop megastars wish to only perform for a new set of folks and introduce them to Nellyville and Ludaversal. It’s powerful to know that hip hop has cemented itself in the popular culture so much that these two men can stand amongst other great artists that will be more recognizable.

But for the most part, people will know Nelly and Ludacris. They will already know about Release Therapy and 5.0. The generations who will know what both of them stand for will rejoice at the thought of bringing together country, rock, rap and gospel. This synergy of sounds will prove to be the most powerful set to be on the American stage for many years to come. Get that money Nelly and Ludacris without having to sacrifice your morals.