It’s been 18 years since Ashanti released her debut album, and it’s something she celebrated on Instagram.
On Thursday, Ashanti posted the self-titled LP’s cover, which dropped on April 2, 2002. Then, in the caption, the singer said she’s amazed how it still resonates with people.
“Humbled even more every year,” wrote Ashanti. “Celebrating 18 years of my debut Album.. Its so crazy that I have so many requests… more from rappers than anyone from this new generation to sample these songs… it’s an incredible feeling that 18 years later this album still slaps… still touches people young & old.”
She then expressed appreciation to those who helped put the album together.
“Super grateful. Thank you guys so much for all your love and continued support,” wrote Ashanti. “I couldn’t do it with out you! Thank you to Murder Inc, Def Jam & Team Ashanti.”
“Still in the Guinness book of world records for the fastest selling R&B debut female artist in music history🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽,” she added. “Wait till y’all hear who sampled one of my singles dropping off this… 😩👀🙌🏽🔥😜 #Forevergrateful❤️.”
In the comments, people thanked Ashanti for even dropping the album. Others, meanwhile, said they had the LP on regular rotation back in the day.
“Such a classic,” someone commented.
“This album was the soundtrack of my teenage years,” wrote another fan. “Thank you so much @ashanti for this 🖤👏🏾.”
“My favorite album such a timeless classic every song spoke to my heart and soul ❤️still playing this album much love Ashanti ❤️❤️❤️❤️,” someone else stated.
Some may recall that Ashanti’s LP was an instant success when it was released, because just nine days after it dropped Billboard said that it had sold 502,500 copies. The album also took the No. 1 spot on the Billboard 200 charts.
The first single of the LP was “Foolish,” which sampled DeBarge’s 1983 cut “Stay with Me.” The video for “Foolish” starred a young Terrence Howard.
