On Thursday, April 7, Ashanti was honored with the 2,718th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, dedicated in the recording category. This comes two decades after the release of her hit self-titled debut studio album, which earned No. 1 on the Billboard Top 200 and R&B album charts for 55 weeks. "I'm shocked, stunned and over the top grateful," she told Billboard after unveiling her star and posing with her loved ones on Hollywood Boulevard. "This is a staple in my career and the fact that it will be here forever is a big deal."
For the occasion, Ashanti wore a white power suit consisting of a single-breasted notch lapel blazer and ankle-length tailored trousers. She added height with matching sparkly stiletto heels, and amped up the glam with layers of sumptuous jewelry. The monochrome pantsuit - contrasted with a few emerald gemstone pendants and chains - perfectly matched with the rings embellishing her hands and her stud earrings. The jewels seem to hold sentimental value for the actress as the styling felt intentional, and they complemented her green eye makeup beautifully.
The R&B singer was joined by longtime friends and collaborators Tichina Arnold and Ja Rule for the momentous occasion, which her mom (who was also in attendance) had actually predicted a long time ago. "She really had that feeling as a mother to say, 'My child is gonna get this.'" she told Billboard. "She manifested it and I'm forever grateful."
The Hollywood Walk of Fame is a historic landmark that commemorates some legendary artists, including Cindy Lauper, Christina Aguilera, John Lennon, and most recently, Ashanti. Hollywood Walk of Fame Producer Ana Martinez complimented the 41-year-old star in a statement, writing, "Ashanti is an award-winning singer, author, actress and executive producer. She has proven her talent in many different Hollywood industries and is an example for young girls who want to be in the 'biz'." Indeed, in addition to this milestone, Ashanti can also celebrate becoming the first Black female artist to co-found a Web3 company on the EQ exchange platform, along with her recent release of a children's book. All hail to the icon!