**Ashanti Speaks Out at 44: Accuses Jennifer Lopez of Stealing Her Career**

At 44, Ashanti has finally broken her silence on how Jennifer Lopez allegedly undermined her career by taking credit for her vocal contributions.

As Lopez announces a new album for 2023, fans and critics alike question whether the songs will feature her authentic voice or rely on talents like Ashanti’s, as in the past.

Ashanti has openly discussed the frustration of her uncredited work on some of Lopez’s biggest hits, reigniting debates about authenticity and recognition in the music industry.

Ashanti revealed that she was the voice behind key parts of Lopez’s 2001 hit “I’m Real.” Originally recorded by Ashanti, the track was handed to Lopez, with Ashanti’s vocals retained in the background. While she expressed happiness for Lopez’s success, Ashanti admitted to feeling bittersweet due to the lack of credit for her contribution.

This incident is just one of many fueling rumors that Lopez built her career by leveraging the talents of other artists, particularly Black female vocalists like Ashanti. The controversy deepened when whispers emerged of Lopez planning a Whitney Houston tribute, performing iconic songs like “I Will Always Love You.”

Though her team denied these claims, the rumor added to suspicions about Lopez’s vocal abilities.

Further incidents highlight the pattern of Lopez allegedly benefiting from others’ work. Ashanti also contributed lyrics and vocals to Lopez’s “Ain’t It Funny,” with her influence evident in the chorus and ad-libs. Fat Joe disclosed that Lopez nearly took “What’s Luv?”

from Ashanti, but his intervention ensured Ashanti’s vocals remained. Fans and critics argue that Lopez’s success often overshadows the artists behind her hits, with Ashanti’s career suffering as a result. While Lopez soared to fame, Ashanti’s trajectory didn’t reach the heights many believe she deserved, prompting accusations that Lopez essentially “stole” her spotlight.

Adding to the narrative, some point to Lopez’s connection with music mogul Tommy Mottola, formerly married to Mariah Carey, as a key to her rise. Critics suggest Mottola, possibly to spite Carey, gave Lopez a song originally recorded by Carey, turning it into a hit while Carey’s version remained unreleased.

Other Lopez tracks, like “All I Have,” “Jenny From the Block,” and “If You Had My Love,” feature significant contributions from artists such as Makeba Riddick, Natasha Ramos, and Shawnette Harrell, often without clear credit. This recurring theme raises questions about how much of Lopez’s success is truly hers.

The broader issue lies in the music industry’s history of under-crediting Black artists, particularly women, whose talents are frequently appropriated. Ashanti’s story, alongside others, underscores systemic inequities where powerful figures benefit at the expense of less-recognized talent.

As Lopez’s 2023 album approaches, speculation persists: will it showcase her genuine vocal prowess, or continue the pattern of relying on others? This controversy isn’t just about Lopez—it’s a call for transparency and fairness in an industry often clouded by smoke and mirrors. What do you think—does Lopez deserve the criticism, or is this simply the nature of the business?