Nelly, a 50-year-old rapper, opened up about his relationship with Ashanti and why they decided to get married after dating on and off for 20 years. The couple officially tied the knot in December 2023 after finding out they were expecting their first child together, a son named Kareem who was born in July 2024. Nelly has two children from a previous relationship and also adopted his late partner’s two children after her passing in 2005.
During an interview on the “Bootleg Kev Podcast,” Nelly admitted that he wasn’t considering marriage to Ashanti until they found out she was pregnant in late 2023. The couple had previously dated from 2003 to 2013 before rekindling their relationship a decade later and getting married a few months afterward. Nelly emphasized the importance of a relationship bringing more good than bad and joked that they realized they were happier than they had initially thought.
At the 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards, Ashanti surprised Nelly by presenting him with the Landmark Award in honor of the 25th anniversary of his album “Country Grammar.” Nelly expressed that he had no idea Ashanti would be presenting the award and was touched by her gesture. He performed a medley of his hits at the awards show, including “Hot in Herre,” “Air Force Ones,” and “Ride Wit Me,” and received the Landmark Award for his impact on music and culture over the past 25 years.
Ashanti confirmed in an interview with Entertainment Tonight that Nelly chose their son Kareem’s name with pride and excitement. She expressed pride in her postpartum body on Instagram, joking that life’s plans aren’t always on time in reference to her hit song “Always on Time” with Ja Rule. Ashanti acknowledged that motherhood brought unexpected challenges but expressed her joy at finally becoming a mother after waiting for a long time.
Nelly and Ashanti’s relationship has been filled with ups and downs over the years, but they ultimately decided to commit to each other and start a family. Their journey to marriage and parenthood was unexpected but has brought them both happiness. Nelly’s achievements in music were recognized at the iHeartRadio Music Awards with the Landmark Award, where Ashanti surprised him with a heartfelt presentation. Their love story and family dynamic continue to evolve as they navigate the challenges and joys of parenthood together.
