Ashanti’s longtime friend and collaborator Ja Rule is mesmerized over how the R&B songstress has embraced the newest chapter in her life: motherhood.
“She’s a great mom,” the rapper, who has three kids of his own, exclusively told Page Six at the star-studded 2025 Pegasus World Cup in Hallandale Beach, Fla., on Jan. 25.
He added of the “Rock Wit U” singer, who welcomed her first child with husband Nelly in July 2024, “She’s been manifesting this moment for a long time, so now it’s finally here.”
Ja Rule admitted that he has not yet “had a chance” to meet baby Kareem Kenkaide, whom he affectionally calls “KK,” in person just yet, but he has seen him on FaceTime.
The “Always On Time” singer also explained why he holds back from sharing parenting tips with Ashanti.
“She’s a new mom, so it’s kind of hard to give her new mom tips because they’re all like, ‘This is my first baby,’ so everything’s got to be right,” he added with a laugh.
Ashanti, 43, has been embracing her new role in private and on social media. She candidly shared a snap of herself showcasing her postpartum body via Instagram last August.
“Funny how life’s plans aren’t…always on time.. lol,” she jokingly wrote in the caption. “I’ve been waiting to be a mom for a long time now but nothing could prepare me for EVERYTHING motherhood brings!”
Last November, rumors circulated online that the “Baby” singer is expecting her second child.
Insiders told the Jasmine Brand at the time that Ashanti and Nelly, 50, have another baby on the way.
The musicians never confirmed or commented on the speculation, though.
Ashanti and Nelly wed in 2023, when they secretly tied the knot after rekindling their romance.
Ja Rule, for his part, has had an impressive run with wife Aisha Atkins. They’ve been married since 2001.
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The “New York” rapper did not bring his spouse, though, to the 2025 Pegasus World Cup, but appeared to have a good time mingling with other big stars such as Mike Tyson.
Ja Rule shook hands and posed for pics on the pink carpet with the boxing legend, 58, before they headed into Gulfstream Park to watch the thrilling horse races.
Other celebs seen at the glamorous event were Winnie Harlow, David Grutman and Isabella Grutman, “Real Housewives of Miami” stars Alexia Nepola and Marysol Patton, Carson Kressley and Diplo.
English (US) ·