18th April, 2024
By Taiwo Okanlawon
American rapper, Cornell Iral Haynes Jr popularly known as Nelly and R&B sensation Ashanti have announced their engagement.
The couple are also expecting their first child together.
Ashanti disclosed this in an exclusive interview with Essence Magazine on Wednesday.
“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,” she said.
Nelly and Ashanti dated on and off for almost 10 years until they seemingly broke up for good in 2013. However, they sparked rumors of a reconciliation last April when they were spotted together in Las Vegas. The “Country Grammar” artist confirmed on the Philo TV show Boss Moves with Rasheeda in September that he and the singer were back together and “cool again.”
The couple finally made their romance official in an Instagram post on Ashanti’s birthday in October.
“Such a beautiful, an incredible person inside and out and one of the hardest working women,” the “Ride wit Me” singer captioned his post. “I know.. @ashanti Enjoy your day Ma you look awesome!!!! Happy Birthday Love ya!!!!”
Ashanti responded, “Awwwwww Thanku Big head!!!!!!!! love ya!!!!”
While this will be Ashanti’s first child, Nelly has two children from a previous relationship.
He also has two adopted children from his stepsister Jaqueline Donahue, who died from leukaemia in 2005.