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R&B star Ashanti was formally commemorated with a star on the Hollywood Stroll of Fame on Thursday morning (April 7) — a feat her mother, well-known momager Tina Douglas, predicted a long time in the past.
“It’s surreal,” Ashanti informed Billboard, moments after unveiling her star and taking pictures with longtime associates and collaborators Tichina Arnold and Ja Rule. “I’m shocked, surprised and excessive grateful. It is a staple in my profession and the truth that will probably be right here endlessly is a giant deal.”
The historic honor comes 20 years after the discharge of Ashanti’s self-titled debut studio album, which premiered at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and charted for 55 weeks. The Grammy-winner and actress has since launched 18 Scorching 100 tracks, together with two No. 1 hits.
“I’m not an excellent emotional individual, so the truth that I cried a little bit bit right this moment is a little bit bizarre for me,” Ashanti stated with fun. “I’m so humbled and overjoyed to have associates, household and real individuals right here supporting me that I like.”
Along with Arnold and Ja Rule, Ashanti was surrounded by her mother and father, Tina and Ken-Kaide Thomas Douglas, sister Kenashia Douglas, Lupita Cornejo, Simone Smith, her staff, many family members and followers. All of whom she thanked throughout her acceptance speech, naming her mother and father as her lifeline and household as her basis.
“The truth that my mother spoke this into existence is surreal,” the star defined. “She actually had that feeling as a mom to say, ‘My baby is gonna get this.’ She manifested it and I’m endlessly grateful.”
Beforehand, Ashanti’s mother confirmed onlookers a photograph of the star she had initially created for her daughter. “I didn’t know she nonetheless has that star,” Ashanti stated proudly.
“I’m grateful to the [Hollywood Chamber of Commerce] for doing this as a result of as artists, we put a lot into it, so many sacrifices, so to really feel like we’re being rewarded with one thing that [lasts] endlessly is an honor.”
As for having the assist of her well-known associates Arnold and Ja Rule, Ashanti informed Billboard, “These are my individuals. Ja is my brother, we’ve made historical past collectively and it wouldn’t be the identical with out him.”
The pair’s 2001 music “At all times On Time” turned a No. 1 Billboard Scorching 100 hit and charted for 27 weeks.
Ashanti and Arnold first bonded whereas performing collectively on The Wiz. “With Tichina, it was so essential to have a Black lady representing and persevering with that narrative of ladies empowerment.”
After Ashanti’s star ceremony, household and associates joined her for an intimate, lavish lunch at Tatel Beverly Hills, offered by PrettyLittleThing, the place many shared heartfelt phrases concerning the Billboard Music Award-winner — and hilarious tales.
After listening to the sort phrases and enjoyable reminiscences, Ashanti shared a message of her personal. “My household has been my spine from the start. I didn’t get up and say ‘I wanna be a star or singer,’ it occurred by chance. However being on this enterprise for therefore a few years has taught me a lot.”
She went on to thank God and her supporters as she briefly turned emotional once more. “I’ve had lots of people betray and stab me and I’ve been naive, so to be right here having fun with this second, I recognize you for believing in me.”
“With out the machine behind me, I’d not be right here,” Ashanti continued. “I’m capable of stay out my goals. This star symbolizes that I kinda did one thing proper.”
Watch Ashanti’s Hollywood Stroll of Fame Star Ceremony under:
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