Singer Ashanti Douglas (1981) is released by her label Murder Inc. (Ja Rule among others) presented as the 'princess of hip hop & r & b'. A rather premature statement, since Ashanti still has to prove himself completely with this CD. In any case, it is certain that Ashanti is a versatile talent. Initially she caused a furore as a fashion model, dancer and actress (including in Spike Lee's
… Malcolm X), until she was discovered by hip-hop producer Irv Gotti. Ashanti's music is a neat, but somewhat predictable mix of hip-hop beats with sultry choirs. Combined with its attractive appearance, in 2002 it is a guaranteed formula for hit success. Ashanti entered the album and single charts at number one in America. Yet for a true princess status more is needed than this tailor-made R&B record. (MS)more
