Nelly & Ashanti: Secret Wedding & Baby Joy! | Latest News
Can a secret wedding and a surprise baby announcement truly redefine the meaning of "happily ever after"? For Ashanti and Nelly, the answer appears to be a resounding yes, as they've woven a story of love, second chances, and now, a new generation into the fabric of their lives.
Their journey began in the early 2000s, a whirlwind of chart-topping hits, red-carpet appearances, and a palpable connection that captivated fans worldwide. Nelly, the "Hot in Herre" rapper, and Ashanti, the "Foolish" songstress, first crossed paths at a Grammy Awards press conference back in 2003. Their paths diverged, as life often dictates, but destiny, it seemed, had other plans.
The year 2023 marked a significant turning point. In a move that surprised and delighted their fans, the couple secretly tied the knot in December. This quiet declaration of love was followed by another joyous announcement: the arrival of their first child together. The news, shared via social media and confirmed by their representatives, sent ripples of excitement throughout the entertainment world.
Adding to the happy news, the couple joyously announced their pregnancy and engagement simultaneously in April, seven months after confirming they had rekindled their early aughts romance. The anticipation reached its peak on July 18, 2024, when their baby boy, Kareem Kenkaide Hayes, arrived a little ahead of schedule. The couple has been sharing their beautiful moments with their fans.
The couple's shared moments have already become a heartwarming spectacle. On December 15, 2024, at Nelly's Black and White Ball in St. Louis, Missouri, Ashanti and Nelly shared a cute moment on stage, the love was in the air. During a performance of Ashanti's hit song "Baby," they changed the chorus to "We made a baby, baby, baby, baby, baby," a clear indication of their joy and the new chapter they were embarking on together. These moments show their happiness is shared.
The little one, Kareem Kenkaide Hayes, born on July 18, 2024, carries a name steeped in family history. Kenkaide, as Ashanti explained, is her father's name, a touching tribute to a family member who has likely played a significant role in her life and success. Both parents were excited to share the new with their fans and loved ones.
The path to parenthood has transformed their lives. While attending the Baby2Baby Gala in November, they spoke candidly about the changes and joys that their son's arrival has brought. These are the kind of moments that touch the hearts of their fans.
Ashanti is already envisioning the future, with thoughts of a second child. Her experience and joy of motherhood is something to be celebrated.
In the photo, Ashanti posed in her Frida Mom, showcasing a raw and honest portrayal of post-partum life. The couple also shared the news with fans. The couple welcomed their son in July, 2024.
Nelly, already a father to Cornell III and Chanelle, has embraced his role with a renewed sense of joy and purpose. Ashanti shared her double dose of big news on wednesday, and the fans were elated to hear the big news.
The arrival of Kareem Kenkaide Hayes on July 18, 2024, signifies a new beginning for Ashanti and Nelly. The love and support that they have always shared is growing bigger. It is all a dream come true. The couple has been sharing their joy.
Now, the "Ride With Me" rapper and the "Happy" singer are navigating the joys of parenthood, while still maintaining their careers and public personas. Their journey offers a glimpse into the enduring power of love, the importance of second chances, and the beauty of building a family.
And yes, Ashanti and Nelly hit the 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards with so much to celebrate!
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Cornell Iral Haynes Jr. (Nelly) / Ashanti Shequoiya Douglas (Ashanti) |
| Birthdate | Nelly: November 2, 1974 / Ashanti: October 13, 1980 |
| Birthplace | Nelly: Austin, Texas, USA / Ashanti: Glen Cove, New York, USA |
| Occupations | Nelly: Rapper, Singer, Entrepreneur, Actor / Ashanti: Singer, Songwriter, Actress, Producer |
| Relationship Status | Married (Secretly married in December 2023) |
| Children | Nelly: Cornell III, Chanelle, and Kareem Kenkaide Hayes (born July 18, 2024) |
| Key Achievements | Nelly: Multiple Grammy Awards, Diamond-selling albums, successful ventures. Ashanti: Grammy Award, multi-platinum albums, acting roles. |
| Notable Songs | Nelly: "Hot in Herre," "Ride Wit Me," "Dilemma". Ashanti: "Foolish," "Happy," "Rain on Me" |
| Associated Acts | Nelly: St. Lunatics. Ashanti: Ja Rule, Fat Joe. |
| Active Years | Both have been active since the early 2000s |
| Reference Website | Billboard |
The duo's story is far from over. With their first child in their arms, a loving partnership, and a shared legacy of music and performance, Ashanti and Nelly are embarking on a new chapter filled with love, family, and the promise of a future that, for them, is just beginning.
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