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Ashanti and Nelly have welcomed their first child together, a baby boy named Kareem Kenkaide Hayes. The couple's representative confirmed the news, stating, "Ashanti and Nelly welcomed their baby boy, Kareem Kenkaide Hayes, on July 18, 2024. The proud and happy parents are so in love with KK!"
The singer has been open about her pregnancy journey, sharing glimpses of her experience with her fans. In an interview with Essence, Ashanti expressed her excitement about motherhood, saying, "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."
They first met at the Grammys in 2003 and dated for a decade before parting ways in 2013. However, they rekindled their romance in the summer of 2023. Nelly confirmed their reunion during an appearance on the "Boss Moves with Rasheeda" show, saying, "It wasn't anything that we planned. We both were pretty much doing what we do. But sometimes, being separate, you understand one another more."
Their relationship took a significant turn when they announced their engagement in December 2023. The couple tied the knot on December 27, 2023, in a private ceremony. Their wedding sparked pregnancy rumors when Ashanti was seen resting her hands on her stomach during the 11th Black and White Ball at the Four Seasons Hotel in St. Louis. Fans speculated about the possibility of a baby on the way, and their suspicions were confirmed when Ashanti announced her pregnancy in April 2024.
Throughout her pregnancy, Ashanti has been vocal about her journey, sharing her experiences and emotions with her fans. She took to social media to reveal her growing baby bump and express her gratitude for the support she has received. In one of her posts, she wrote, "This is gonna be Ashanti's last show before she goes on maternity leave. Good luck, Mommy!"
Nelly, too, has been a supportive partner, sharing his excitement about becoming a father. In an Instagram story, he posted a picture of Ashanti with her baby bump, captioning it, "Of course not beautiful I'm fine..!! Luv U2." The couple celebrated Mother's Day together in May 2024, marking their last one before welcoming their little one.
