Nico Segal — Social Experiment member and part of Chance The Rapper’s inner circle — has announced that he will no longer go by the name of Donnie Trumpet, a moniker which he adopted a few years ago and released one full-length album under, last year’s very-good Surf.

In a Facebook post earlier today, Segal says he no longer feels comfortable using the name in light of the Presidential election results. “What began as a joke, a silly play on words, is not funny anymore,” he wrote. “I don’t want to be connected to Trump’s hateful tone or his hurtful message. I don’t want to be misrepresented or misunderstood. Trump’s beliefs are not mine.” Read his full statement below:

Farewell, “Donnie Trumpet”

We just came off the release of Coloring Book and The Magnificent Coloring World Tour, both huge successes. But all during the tour, something heavy was looming over me — Donald Trump — and the connection people are drawing between his name and mine.

What began as a joke, a silly play on words, is not funny anymore. I don’t want to be connected to Trump’s hateful tone or his hurtful message. I don’t want to be misrepresented or misunderstood. Trump’s beliefs are not mine.

From this point on, call me Nico. I am proud to be part of a multicultural family, from the great City of Chicago. I am grateful for the diversity of friends and family who have taught me and believed in me and encouraged me. I couldn’t stand to ever hurt them, or you.

Thank you for understanding.

Peace, please, and so much love,
Nico 🎺