Ashanti

Date of Birth

13 October 1980, Glen Cove, Long Island, New York, USA

Birth Name

Ashanti Shequoiya Douglas

Nickname

Shani

Height

5' 3" (1.60 m)

Trivia

Names Mary J. Blige, Ella Fitzgerald and Blue Magic are artists whom inspired her.

Her songs "Foolish", "Always On Time", and "What's Luv" made the top 10 all in one week.

Launched her career in 1994 when she was recognized at a talent show.

Wrote all 12 tracks on her self-titled debut album.

A native of Long Island, she began singing at the age of 12.

Was the first R&B singer to join Murder Inc. Records.

Has worked with Ja Rule, Big Pun and Fat Joe.

Turned down a track scholarship to Hampton University to pursue her singing career.

Before she joined Murder Inc. Records, she was signed by Jive Records.

Born to a Half African-American, Half Chinese father (Ken-kaide) and an African-American mother (Tina).

Her aunt lives in Rhode Island.

Released new fragrance line, "Precious Jewel" [2005]

Named #13 on the Maxim magazine Hot 100 of 2005 list.

Ranked as #81 in FHM's "100 Sexiest Women in the World 2005" special supplement. (2005)

Ranked #37 on the Maxim magazine Hot 100 of 2008 list.

Personal Quotes

I'm not trying to not do music. There's just a feeling when you create a hot record and have people fall in love with your record. There's nothing like that feeling.