Nelly Opens Up About Love, Music, and Life with Ashanti

Nelly and Ashanti are back stronger than ever, and the rapper is opening up about their relationship, his surprise onstage moment with her, and their plans for the future—including marriage and moving to Tennessee.

A Surprise Onstage Moment

Nelly recently attended an event with Ashanti and her mom, thinking they were simply going to their seats—but what happened next caught him completely off guard.

“I had my earpiece in, and I heard a familiar voice. I was like, ‘What the hell is going on?’ Then I saw the screen, and I was like, ‘What is she doing up there?!’”

The unexpected moment was caught on camera, and fans saw Nelly’s stunned reaction as he realized Ashanti had pulled him into the spotlight.

“We didn’t rehearse that. She knew, though. She always knows before me.”

The Proposal: An Intimate Moment

Nelly also shared details about his at-home proposal to Ashanti. Forget the grand public gestures—this was a private, intimate moment that felt right for them.

“She was in a pair of my boxers and a t-shirt, just chilling at home. It was right after we found out she was pregnant. I didn’t need another baby mama—I needed a wife. That’s my baby, man. Nothing else to do.”

The couple is now preparing for their next chapter, including moving out of LA for a quieter life.

“We got a whole new crib. Thinking about moving to Tennessee—no state tax, some acreage, peace and quiet. I love LA, but you can’t even step outside without running into your neighbor.”

Why Not Vegas?

When asked about moving to Las Vegas, Nelly quickly shut it down.

“I gamble too much, man! I don’t know how to stop—I fight till the end. I’d be in too deep!”

Nelly on Love and Soulmates

Ashanti has openly called Nelly her soulmate, and he says the feeling is mutual.

“Life and relationships are about balance. Does the good outweigh the bad? If someone brings more good than bad into your life, that’s all that matters. That’s how I judge any relationship.”

For Nelly, it’s all about protecting his peace, whether that’s in his love life, family, or friendships.

“Even with your own family, if they bring more bad than good, you have to step back. You’re not going to be able to give anyone else peace if you don’t have it yourself.”

Giving Each Other Space

Although they are deeply connected, Nelly and Ashanti understand the importance of space in a relationship.

“You see Ashanti’s not here today, right? A man needs his time, just like she needs hers. It makes us appreciate each other more.”

As for what’s next? Music, marriage, and building a life together.

“We got songs together, but we also got that separation we need. It’s all about balance.”

Nelly and Ashanti’s love story is one for the books—from a 20-year history to a second chance at forever. What do you think about their relationship? Are they #CoupleGoals? 💍🔥