Photo by: Rodin Eckenroth / Stringer
Ashanti is on a huge winning streak!
Celebrating the 20th anniversary of her debut album Ashanti, the 41-year-old Grammy winner, received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in the recording category on April 7th.
Photo by: Rodin Eckenroth / Getty
“It’s surreal,” she expressed at the ceremony. “I’m shocked, stunned, and over the top grateful. This is a staple in my career, and the fact that it will be here forever is a big deal.”
For the star ceremony, Ashanti was joined by her family, and her award was presented by friends and colleagues such as actress Tichina Arnold and Murder Inc. collaborator Ja Rule.
Photo by: Rodin Eckenroth / Getty
“I’m not a super emotional person, so the fact that I cried a little bit today is a little weird for me,” Ashanti said. “I’m so humbled and overjoyed to have friends, family, and genuine people here supporting me that I love.”
Ashanti’s first self-titled album was debuted in 2002, and it reached number one on the Billboard Top 200 and R&B album charts, charting for 55 weeks.
She created five more studio albums, including Chapter II, which won the Grammy for best contemporary R&B album in 2004.
Photo by: Rodin Eckenroth / Getty
Tina Douglas, the multi-hyphenate entertainer’s mother, and manager was honored at the occasion and praised her for always believing in Ashanti.
“The fact that my mom spoke this into existence is surreal,” Ashanti told Billboard. “She really had that feeling as a mother to say, ‘My child is gonna get this.’ She manifested it, and I’m forever grateful.”
The Hollywood Walk of Fame Producer Ana Martinez also spoke about the singer and actress’ accomplishments.
“Ashanti is an award-winning singer, author, actress, and executive producer,” Martinez stated.
Martinez added: “She has proven her talent in many different Hollywood industries and is an example for young girls who want to be in the ‘biz.’”
Congratulations to Ashanti! She deserves all of her flowers!
What is your favorite Ashanti song?
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