Ashanti on Tour as a New Mom: Juggling Shows, Baby, and Grandma’s Help
In a candid and refreshing interview with PEOPLE Magazine, Ashanti opens up about the rollercoaster ride of motherhood while preparing for her upcoming tour, reflecting the delicate balance many new parents navigate between work and family. The 44-year-old singer recently welcomed her first child, a son named Kareem Kenkaide, affectionately known as KK, with her long-time partner Nelly. As she gears up for her first tour since becoming a mom, Ashanti acknowledges the necessity of extra support, quipping, “It takes a village to raise a baby.”
This year, Ashanti will embark on the “Bring It On Tour” across the U.K. and Ireland, sharing the stage with Sean Paul and Fat Joe throughout April. She will follow this with the R&B Forever Tour alongside heavyweights like Ginuwine and Tyrese in Brooklyn, before heading to California for a special concert with Fabolous and Lloyd. The logistics of touring with a 7-month-old, however, do not escape her. Ashanti is gearing up to be “more cognizant of time,” planning meticulously to keep her little one safe and comfortable on the road.
Her protective instincts as a new mom shine through as she discusses her efforts to limit exposure to germs, even going as far as restricting shoe-wearing in her baby’s vicinity. Luckily, Ashanti has enlisted the help of her mother, whom she lovingly refers to as her “momager,” or “Tima,” ensuring that she has a trusted ally on the road. This familial support is not just a luxury; it is a necessity for many working parents, particularly those in the demanding entertainment industry.
Yet, amidst the chaotic schedule, Ashanti remains upbeat, expressing gratitude for her health and the joy of motherhood, while also acknowledging the need to prioritize her fitness regimen. As she balances the dual roles of performer and mother, Ashanti’s journey reflects a wider narrative of modern parenting, where the lines between personal and professional life can blur, but love and support often help navigate the complexities.
Sources: Celebrity Storm and People Magazine, Billboard, The Independent
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