Ashanti Makes a Painful Confession About Welcoming Her Son with Nelly

Ashanti, the Grammy-winning singer, has opened up about the deeply emotional and spiritual experience of welcoming her first child, a son named Kareem Ken Cade Haynes, with her husband Nelly.

In a candid audio interview with Entertainment Tonight released on August 21st, Ashanti reflected on how motherhood has changed her life and the unique journey she and Nelly have shared.

Ashanti gave birth to Kareem on July 18th, a few weeks earlier than expected. She described the moment as “amazing and incredible,” especially since Nelly managed to arrive just in time for the birth despite an unexpected flight.

Seeing her son’s face for the first time was both spiritual and emotional for Ashanti, who admitted she cried tears of joy in the delivery room. She explained that she had envisioned this moment for years, but it was even more powerful and validating than she imagined.

The singer confessed that while she always dreamed of marriage and starting a family, she never expected to do so with her former boyfriend. The couple’s reunion brought a sense of destiny and purpose to her life, making the experience even more meaningful.

Motherhood, Ashanti said, has transformed her priorities. She feels a profound sense of selflessness and devotion to her son, stating, “My son comes first above everything.” She described the overwhelming love and appreciation she feels for her baby, admitting that he has her “entire soul.”

Ashanti also shared that parenting with Nelly has been hard to put into words. She recounted a touching moment in the hospital when Nelly calmed their son by singing to him, emphasizing Nelly’s gentle and nurturing side.

Nelly, for his part, expressed his joy and gratitude for their new family. He called having children a blessing and praised Ashanti for being an incredible mother.

The couple’s journey to parenthood has been filled with twists and turns. They first dated in 2003, split after a decade, but rekindled their romance in 2021. In April 2024, Ashanti revealed both her pregnancy and engagement to Nelly, and the couple secretly married on December 27, 2023.

Ashanti also shared advice for new mothers, encouraging them to trust their instincts, persevere through challenges, and ensure their children feel safe and loved. She stressed the importance of self-care and finding balance as a parent.

The couple chose the name Kareem Ken Cade Haynes with care and symbolism. Nelly was adamant about the name, which means generous, noble, and compassionate. “Ken Cade” is a tribute to Ashanti’s father, making the name even more special.

Despite the joy of new motherhood, Ashanti admitted to experiencing the challenges of postpartum life, expressing pride in her body and gratitude for the journey. The couple’s relationship was made public again at the 2023 MTV Video Music Awards, and their story has inspired fans with its message of love, resilience, and new beginnings.

Recently, Nelly faced legal trouble after being detained in St. Louis, but his lawyer maintains the charges are unfounded. Through it all, Ashanti and Nelly remain focused on their growing family and the blessings of their new son.

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