Ashanti says she is finally receiving her flowers for her role in two of Jennifer Lopez‘s hit songs.
Ashanti says she was instrumental in the creation of Lopez’s “I’m Real” and “Ain’t it Funny” remixed tracks, which featured Ja Rule. The songs were released in 2001 and 2002, respectively.
The controversy surrounding the records began after Ashanti’s vocals from the “I’m Real” demo track found their way to the song’s final version. At the time, Lopez was the only one labeled as the credited singer. Ashanti originally recorded the demo as a reference for the star. She also says she wrote “Ain’t It Funny (Murder Remix)” remix.
Ashanti’s uncredited status led many to believe the women were feuding. Last year, Ashanti brought the conversation to light after addressing the situation during her “Verzuz” battle with Keyshia Cole.
On April 27, during an interview with Metro UK, Ashanti opened up when asked how it felt to be given credit for her work after two decades — although it remains unclear if the songstress has ever gotten any official credit for the songs. The 41-year-old, who was promoting her upcoming tour, told the outlet, “You should always care about credit for what you do regardless of what industry you’re in. It’s really important to give credit.”
She added, “Especially nowadays because things are so smoke and mirrors. It’s not that it’s frustrating… the word has been getting out there over the past couple of years, and I’m grateful, so a lot of people know, and they were surprised, but it’s more of a ‘yeah, grateful that you know.'”
Ashanti wrapped up the discussion by expressing the emotions she went through when the event occurred. She said, “It’s weird because obviously you get frustrated for not getting credit or not being properly labeled but then that turns into something you get admired for.”
As the remarks circulated online, many mentioned how happy they were for Ashanti.
“Only took 20 years.”
“YAAAAAAAAASSSSSSSSS!!!! About f–ing time.”
“Good for her. Hopefully this topic can go away now cause it’s been too long.”
“Bout time! I’m so happy for her. She deserves it.”
“Finally, idk why they even tried to play her like we all didn’t know.”
Ashanti’s interview comes after the highest achievement in her career: receiving a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and celebrating the 20th anniversary of her self-titled debut album.
