Ashanti burst onto the music scene in 2002, captivating audiences with her self-titled debut album, which featured hit songs like "Foolish" and "Baby." Her smooth vocals and relatable lyrics quickly earned her a dedicated fanbase, and it was clear from the start that Ashanti was here to stay. Over the years, she has not only made her mark as an R&B singer but also as an actress, songwriter, record producer, and dancer. Now, decades into her career, Ashanti continues to shine both on and off the stage, with recent headlines focusing on her marriage to rapper Nelly and her pregnancy.
Source: Instagram/@ashanti
A Well-Earned Net Worth
Ashanti’s long and successful career in the entertainment industry has significantly contributed to her financial success. As of now, Ashanti’s net worth is estimated to be around $5 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth. This figure is a testament to her extensive work in music and film, as well as her savvy business decisions over the years. All five of Ashanti’s studio albums have landed in Billboard’s Top 10, with her debut album reaching three-time platinum status—a feat that underscores her impact on the R&B genre.
When it comes to live performances, Ashanti’s earnings per show are reported to be between $75,000 and $150,000, although these figures haven't been officially confirmed. Nonetheless, it’s clear that her talent and enduring popularity allow her to command impressive fees for her performances, further adding to her wealth.
Reclaiming Her Work: Ashanti’s Fight for Ownership
Ashanti’s career hasn’t been without its challenges, particularly when it comes to the business side of the music industry. Like many artists, she found herself in a less-than-ideal record deal early on, one that left her without ownership of her original masters. However, Ashanti took steps to change that narrative. In a 2021 interview with The Angie Martinez Show, Ashanti discussed her decision to re-record her classic albums, emphasizing the importance of artists owning their work.
“The thinking behind that is showing the business side of ownership,” Ashanti explained. “And how important it is to own. And once I re-record the first album, [I own it]. When that goes, everything purchased from that moment, I own.”
Source: Instagram/@ashanti
Ashanti followed through on her plan, re-releasing her debut album on March 31, 2023, as Ashanti (Deluxe Edition)—a reimagined version that coincided with the album’s 21st anniversary. This move came just a year after she received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, a fitting tribute to her lasting influence in the industry.
Controversy with Irv Gotti
Of course, not everyone was happy with Ashanti’s decision to reclaim her music. Irv Gotti, who was instrumental in producing her early albums and owns a significant portion of the publishing rights, expressed his displeasure when Ashanti announced her plans to re-record. In a public comment captured by The Shade Room, Irv accused Ashanti of trying to cut him out of the profits from her re-recorded albums, calling the situation “f---ed up.”
Despite Irv’s objections, Ashanti’s focus on owning her masters shows her commitment to securing her financial future and ensuring she receives the rewards she rightfully deserves. For Ashanti, taking control of her music isn’t just about the money—it’s about making sure her legacy is fully in her hands.
Looking Ahead
As Ashanti continues to make headlines, whether for her music, her personal life, or her business moves, one thing is clear: she remains a formidable force in the entertainment industry. Her net worth of $5 million reflects not just her past success, but her ongoing efforts to evolve and adapt in an ever-changing industry.
With her re-recorded albums, new music, and future projects, Ashanti’s story is far from over, and her fortune is only set to grow as she continues to build on her already impressive career.
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