When Ashanti came out in with “Foolish” in 2002, I immediately became a fan. The video that starred Terrence Howard made me love the song even more. At the time, Terrence had just starred in The Best Man, so he was a recognizable face after have just seeing the movie. This was way before the nonsense that he’s known for now. Anyway, that video solidified that I thought Ashanti was going to be a dope artist.
Although she’s still a dope artist, I think she has been overshadowed by the Beyoncés of the world. Can we be honest? I personally feel that she was creating her own lane musically when she first came out. It was very street with a hip-hop flare. I really dug it. But like every other R&B female singer, they all soon adopted the Beyoncé’s recipe for success. And it didn’t work.
I connected with Ashanti like I connected with Aaliyah. She was the real deal and street. Never trying to put on airs for anyone with her music. But some way along the line her music changed.
I recently had a chance to preview her new Braveheart album. (Do we even say ‘album’ anymore?) Ashanti invited a few media folks to the studio to listen to it. Can I be honest? I really didn’t know what to expect from her new album. I totally went in with a side-eye. Which was very wrong…I know. I never like to prejudge. Besides, it’s been years since we have heard anything new from her.
The former first lady of Murder Inc. walked into the studio and gave everyone a hug. I said, “Oh? A hug?” She said, “Yes, I’m a hugger.” How genuine?! She briefly talked about why she decided to release Braveheart on her own label Written Entertainment. She also said she poured blood, sweat and tears into this album. Her mom, dad and sister were there to support as well.
Well, let me tell you that the Ashanti I came to love during the “Baby” years is back! Braveheart is the bomb! The whole album is good. It has a true R&B sound with the street flavor I came to love from her. It also has a few club bangers. The 15-song album, including Target exclusives, features guest appearances by French Montana, Jeremih, Rick Ross and Beenie Man. Ashanti’s new album BraveHeart drops March 4th.
I leave you with one of my favorite songs off the album.
“Early In The Morning” featuring French Montana will have you doing a lap dance for your man.
Also check out her new video for “I Got It” featuring Rick Ross.
Did you know Ashanti is also writing music for the soundtrack to the upcoming 2015 “Tupac” biopic?
3 comments
I’ve always liked & respected Ashanti. Like you, I connected with her the way I did with Aaliyah. The lady is talented – writing for J-Lo and others, acting, poetry book…she’s great! I just wish she hadn’t been overshadowed by this new wave of music that’s been dominating the industry for the last few years. I have aongs on my iPod from all her CDs and I still listen. This new album is dope and it’s a throwback to the old Ashanti, like you said. Glad to hear she was so personable and down to earth. Good recap!
~Whitney
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