Ashanti is reflecting on her “hilarious” dance move that has been etched in the internet’s history.
Back in 2014, Ashanti, 44, appeared on The Queen Latifah Show to promote her Braveheart album, which was released that same year. The R&B songstress performed her club-ready single “I Got It,” an innuendo-laced tune paired with equally sensual choreography. Flanked by two background dancers, Ashanti moved things to the floor and proceeded to scoot as the performance came to a close.
In an exclusive chat with PEOPLE about her current ventures, the “Good Good” singer, 44, shares her reaction to the piece of choreography that has spread across the internet over the years.
“It is so hilarious to me and it’s one of those little memes,” Ashanti tells PEOPLE over Zoom, before a recent taping of The Tamron Hall Show. “Like when you put it in on your phone, if you put in ‘Ashanti’, the scoot [move] comes up. I’m like, ‘are you kidding me?’ It’s hilarious!”
Like Ashanti mentions, a gif of the scooting motion is readily available in the designated gif catalog in iMessage on Apple devices. This is a testament to the internet’s frequent use of the viral performance.
While everyone can’t handle the scrutiny (albeit light) of the internet, the New York-born artist takes it in stride, even referencing New York Liberty mascot Ellie the Elephant’s homage in a TikTok posted to the popular mascot’s account in July 2024.
“What’s the [mascot] from [the New York] Liberty?,” Ashanti asks, earnestly. Once her manager jogs her memory, the “Baby” singer giggles, finishing with a simple “Shout out to Ellie.”
Before moving on, she reveals the reason why the move was incorporated into the choreography.
“When I shot the video, my ankle was broken,” Ashanti says. “So we just did the choreography from that [for the live performance.]”
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These days, life couldn’t be busier for Ashanti.
Following the birth of her son Kareem Kenkaide last July – whom she shares with rapper Nelly, 50 – the first-time mother is diving back into her artistic endeavors. Last month, Ashanti starred in and served as the executive producer for the gritty drama No Address, shining a light on the growing issue of homelessness in the U.S.
Next month, Ashanti is slated to release her new single “Called You Up” in addition to embarking upon the Bring It Tour. Beginning April 8 in Dublin, Ireland, the “Foolish” singer will trek across Europe with Sean Paul and Fat Joe and perform her bevy of hits.
“It’s going to be my first time going as a mom,” Ashanti notes. “My creative director is kind of going in and just… I don’t want to say completely wiping, but definitely upgrading [my set], doing some new stuff. So I’m excited about that new staging. And obviously we’ll be over in Europe, so it’s going to be a good vibe, man. I’m excited!”
Learn more about the Bring It Tour here.
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