Ashanti and Nelly Expecting First Child, Confirm Engagement

R&B songstress Ashanti and rapper Nelly have announced they are expecting their first child and are now engaged. The news was confirmed by Ashanti in an interview with USA TODAY on Wednesday.

Ashanti expressed her excitement about impending motherhood, stating, “This new year of my life is such a blessing full of love, hope, and anticipation. Motherhood is something that I have looked forward to, and sharing this with my family, fiancé, and loyal fans, who have been so supportive of my career, is an amazing experience.”

The couple subtly hinted at the news during their appearance at the Black & White Ball in December 2023, with footage showing Ashanti rubbing her stomach on stage, followed by a playful gesture from Nelly. The pair also shared a moment captured in a social media post, where Ashanti teased, “Baby baby baby baby…. ❤️🙏🏽😆”

Nelly, who already shares two children from previous relationships, is known for his intimate relationship history with Ashanti. The duo had dated on and off for almost a decade, beginning around the time they were both nominated for and won Grammy Awards back in 2003.

After a period of separation, Nelly confirmed in a September 2023 interview on the Philo show “Love & Hip Hop Atlanta” that he and Ashanti had reconciled. The couple made their red carpet debut at the VMAs, with Ashanti sporting a custom clutch featuring the couple’s photo.

Further solidifying their relationship, Ashanti surprised Nelly with a unique gift, an electric blue 1962 Impala convertible, personalized with symbolic customizations, at his birthday celebration in October 2023. The couple shared a tender moment, sealing their bond with a kiss after the grand reveal.