In the days leading up to the presidential inauguration, Snoop Dogg stepped onto a Washington, D.C., stage in a black and gold ensemble. As he moved through his setlist, the crowd responded with cheers, dancing along to his mix of hip-hop hits and classic anthems.
The performance took place at the Crypto Ball, one of several exclusive events leading up to the presidential inauguration. The gathering featured live entertainment and drew notable guests, including UFC star Colby Covington.
Colby Covington pictured on October 23, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
Snoop Dogg’s participation stood out, given his past remarks about Trump. His appearance at the Crypto Ball was just one of several performances that garnered attention as the inaugural celebrations continued.
Snoop Dogg and Donald Trump attend the Comedy Central Roast of Donald Trump at the Hammerstein Ballroom on March 9, 2011 | Source: Getty Images
Snoop Dogg’s Performance at the Crypto Ball
Snoop Dogg took the stage at the Crypto Ball, delivering an energetic set that had the crowd on its feet. He performed a mix of his own hits, including “Drop It Like It’s Hot,” as well as classics like Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’” and Bob Marley’s “Three Little Birds.”
As the DJ played, Snoop engaged with the audience, keeping the energy high throughout his performance. Dressed in a black jacket with gold buttons, a bowtie, and gold-rimmed sunglasses, he performed with ease, moving across the stage as attendees danced along.
Snoop Dogg performs at the Crypto Ball on January 18, 2025 | Source: X/BoLoudon
Videos from the event showed him in high spirits, enjoying the moment in front of the packed crowd, and his performance quickly became one of the most talked-about highlights of the night.
Footage of Snoop Dogg’s Performance Sparks Online Buzz
Political commentator Bo Loudon was among the first to share the news, posting on X, “🚨BREAKING: Rap Legend Snoop Dogg will be reportedly performing at President Trump’s inauguration.”
Snoop Dogg performs at the Crypto Ball stage, on January 18, 2025 | Source: X/BoLoudon
Minutes later, he posted a photo with Snoop, writing, “Hanging with the legendary Snoop Dogg, who is set to perform at President Trump’s inauguration.”
As the event continued, Loudon shared another update, posting a video of Snoop’s set along with the caption, “Snoop Dogg is currently performing on stage at a Trump Inaugural Ball in DC!” The post quickly gained traction, with users reacting to the rapper’s participation.
Some expressed disbelief, with one person simply writing, “Unbelievable.” Another added, “WHAT??!! That’s amazing.” Others were impressed, calling the moment “Iconic.”
Supporters also shared their appreciation, with one user commenting, “I appreciate that Snoop Dogg is paying our beloved President Trump some well-deserved respect!” Another wrote, “Thanks, Snoop! Have a great time 🎉🥂.”
Snoop’s performance at the Crypto Ball stood out, given his history with Trump.
Snoop Dogg’s History with Trump
Over the years, he had publicly criticized the president in interviews, music, and public appearances. In 2011, Snoop mocked Trump at a Comedy Central roast. Years later in 2017, his “Lavender” music video depicted a clown version of Trump being shot.
Snoop Dogg roasts Donald Trump at the Comedy Central Roast of Donald Trump on March 9, 2011 | Source: Getty Images
In a 2020 interview on Big Boy’s Neighborhood, Snoop criticized Trump’s presidency. “I ain’t never voted a day in my life, but this year I think I’m going to get out and vote because I can’t stand to see this punk in office one more year,” he said. However, by January 2024, his stance had shifted.
He famously stated, “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.”
Michael “Harry-O” Harris, a key figure in Death Row Records’ early days, was granted clemency by Trump in 2021, one of his final acts before leaving office during his first term.
Snoop, who had been signed to the label and later acquired it in 2022, acknowledged the pardon as a defining moment in his change of opinion. Snoop wasn’t the only artist to perform at the inaugural events.
Who Else Took the Stage?
Alongside Snoop at the Crypto Ball were rapper Rick Ross and Soulja Boy, both of whom delivered their own sets. Their performances added to the night’s entertainment as attendees celebrated ahead of the official swearing-in.
The inaugural celebrations continued with more performances at the Liberty Ball, where country stars Jason Aldean and Billy Ray Cyrus took the stage. Another renowned rapper was also among the featured performers, making his appearance at the event another standout moment of the night.