Ashanti says a wardrobe malfunction onstage — a bodysuit that snapped off — was “not my coolest moment,” as she prepares to embark on an Australian tour and revisit the record that launched her career.
The Grammy winner told reporters she is re-recording her debut album so she can own the masters. The project, she said, will retain the album’s familiar feel while sounding sonically fresher: “Sonically, it will be a lot clearer. It was 25 years ago so it’ll sound a little more new, obviously, but with the same classic vibe.”
Foolish, the single that helped define the record, turns 25 next year and remains a concert staple. Ashanti described the experience of hearing arenas sing along as “a beautiful feeling. And a blessing,” saying she feels grateful her songs have endured.
In interviews ahead of the tour she also spoke about aspects of her personal life — including her marriage to rapper Nelly — and the unpredictable moments of live performance, such as fans rushing the stage. She mentioned, without elaborating, having a “secret skill” she revealed to audiences during conversations about her career.
Ashanti’s decision to re-record reflects a broader trend among artists seeking control over their recordings. By creating new masters, she aims to refresh the sound of the original tracks while securing ownership and the rights that come with it.
Fans in Australia will get the chance to hear the updated versions and the classics live as the artist balances celebrating a milestone album with the realities of life on the road and the occasional onstage mishap.