Rapper Nelly and his wife, Ashanti, never miss a chance to celebrate each other’s achievements.
On March 17, 2025, the lovebirds attended the annual iHeartRadio Music Awards at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, where Nelly was honored for his remarkable music career.
For the glamorous occasion, the Baby singer stunned in a black leather bodycon dress featuring a halter neckline and a subtle back slit. She accessorized with chunky silver hoop earrings and strappy black heels.
Meanwhile, the Dilemma rapper opted for an all-white ensemble, pairing an oversized hoodie with relaxed-fit joggers. He completed his look with a chunky diamond chain, black sunglasses, and sporty sneakers.
Ashanti Adorably Surprises Nelly By Presenting Him With Award | Z100 New York https://t.co/ZILHSmNjOJ pic.twitter.com/PWyOPT2kT6
— Z100 New York (@Z100NewYork) March 18, 2025
Ashanti had the honor of presenting Nelly with the prestigious Landmark Award, which recognizes artists whose albums have shaped and influenced culture for decades. The rapper received the accolade for his 2000 album, Country Grammar.
In a heartwarming paparazzi-captured clip, the rapper embraced his wife before accepting the award, sharing a sweet kiss on the cheek. Hand in hand, they walked off the stage as Ashanti beamed with pride, applauding her husband.
Ashanti’s Powerful And Heartfelt Tribute To Nelly’s Legacy
While presenting the award, the songstress delivered an emotional and powerful speech, celebrating her husband’s nearly three-decade-long impact on the music industry. She began by saying,
“Back in the day, when people thought about rap, they thought about the East and West coast, but in 2000 a rapper emerged out of St. Louis who would change the game forever and put the Midwest on the map. That rapper was Nelly”.
Expressing her deep admiration and love for Nelly, Ashanti concluded her tribute with a touching acknowledgment of his legacy, sharing,
“This year marks the 25th anniversary of his groundbreaking album, Country Grammar… I’m so proud to honor Country Grammar and the talented guy who made it — my soulmate, my husband, Nelly, with the iHeart Radio Landmark Award”.
Nelly and Ashanti dated on and off from 2003 to 2013 before reconnecting a decade later in 2023. That same year, the couple tied the knot on December 27 in an intimate court ceremony in St. Louis County.
In July 2024, they welcomed their first child together, a baby boy named Kareem Kenkaide Haynes.
Fans Gush Over The Couple’s Undeniable Chemistry
The online community couldn’t be happier for Nelly and Ashanti, showering them with love and admiration after their romantic onstage moment. Social media was flooded with heartwarming comments that read,
“These two being so happy and in love together in 2025 makes my millennial heart so happy!! ❤️🔥😍”
“We will never get sick of these 🙂❤️”
“This Proof Real Love exists. We gotta heal and fix ourselves 🔥🙌❤️ My Heart is happy”.
With their love story coming full circle, Nelly and Ashanti continue to prove that true love always finds its way back. As they celebrate this milestone together, fans can’t wait to see what’s next for this power couple!