Surprise! Ashanti and Nelly Expecting First Child Together

Los Angeles, CA (April 18, 2024): R&B royalty Ashanti and rapper Nelly are expecting their first child together! The news broke on social media Wednesday, sending shockwaves through the music industry and fans who have followed the on-again, off-again couple for years.

Ashanti took to Instagram with a sweet video hinting at the baby news. The clip shows her getting ready for a performance, with her team checking in on her. When asked how much time she needs, Ashanti replies, “Uh, I’m gonna need about nine months,” prompting a surprised reaction from her mother.

Fans quickly caught on, flooding the comments section with congratulatory messages. In a separate statement to Essence magazine, Ashanti confirmed the pregnancy and revealed that she and Nelly are also engaged. “This new year of my life is such a blessing full of love, hope, and anticipation,” Ashanti shared. “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.”

This will be the first child for Ashanti, 43. Nelly, 49, already has several children from previous relationships.

A Longstanding Love Story

Ashanti and Nelly first sparked dating rumors in the early 2000s, collaborating on multiple hit songs like “Foolish” and “Get It On Tonight.” Their on-again, off-again relationship has been a source of media fascination for over two decades. They reportedly rekindled their romance in 2023, to the delight of fans who have always rooted for them.

The news of their engagement and upcoming baby has fans ecstatic for the couple. Congratulations are pouring in from celebrities and music industry colleagues alike.

With a baby on the way and a wedding to plan, it seems Ashanti and Nelly are entering a new chapter filled with love and family.