Rapper Nelly has finally found his forever love in longtime partner and now-wife, singer Ashanti.
During an exclusive video interview on The Bootleg Kev Podcast on March 24, 2025, the R&B singer opened up about their relationship, reflecting on their journey and the unexpected reason behind their decision to marry.
The lovebirds secretly tied the knot in December 2023, but as Nelly revealed, their decision was driven by a deeply personal moment. Reflecting on the life-changing news of Ashanti’s pregnancy, the Dilemma rapper explained what led him to take the next big step, saying,
“I was like, you know what? Let’s just knock this out because we’re going to be doing so much and everything’s moving so fast. I didn’t want her to [just] be [my] baby mama, you know what I mean?”
Looking back at their two-decade-long, on-and-off love story, including their 2013 breakup before reconnecting in 2023, Nelly expressed how making their bond official felt like the natural next step. He said,
“We already knew where we were in life. If we’re back like this [after years apart], this must be what it’s supposed to be”.
Nelly And Ashanti’s Romantic Night Out For A Special Celebration
Just days before Nelly’s heartfelt revelation about their love story, the rapper and his wife shared a swoon-worthy moment at the iHeartRadio Music Awards on March 17, 2025. The event, held at the iconic Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, honored Nelly for his incredible contributions to music.
Ashanti had the privilege of presenting him with the prestigious Landmark Award, a recognition given to artists whose work has shaped and influenced culture for decades. Nelly received the honor for his groundbreaking 2000 album, Country Grammar.
In a heartwarming moment captured by paparazzi, the Air Force Ones rapper embraced Ashanti before accepting the award, sealing it with a sweet kiss on her cheek. Hand in hand, they exited the stage as the Baby singer beamed with pride, applauding her husband’s latest achievement.
In December 2024, the lovebirds marked their first wedding anniversary. Just months earlier, in July 2024, they welcomed their first child together, a baby boy named Kareem Kenkaide Haynes.
Fans Can’t Get Enough Of The Couple’s Thriving Relationship
The online community couldn’t be happier for Nelly and Ashanti, showering them with love and admiration following the rapper’s heartfelt confession. Social media was flooded with heartwarming comments that read,
“I love them both. It was always meant to be ❤️ They both look so happy”.
“Trust in the right timing 🙌🏾”
“He made the best decision 😍😍😍👏”
“I’m loving seeing both of them in this stage of their lives… I’m happy that Ashanti is with someone who loves and values her”.
Their love story proves that some connections are simply meant to find their way back. As Nelly and Ashanti embrace this new chapter together, fans can’t wait to see what’s next for the power couple!