In a heartfelt revelation, rapper Nelly opened up about his past relationships, admitting that he dated Shantel Jackson in part because she reminded him of his former love, Ashanti. Nelly, who has faced much speculation about his romantic life, shared his feelings in an interview, highlighting the significant impact Ashanti has had on him.

Nelly, famous for his chart-topping hits and charm, was at the time in a public relationship with actress and model Shantel Jackson for several years before their breakup in 2021. However, it’s his connection with R&B star Ashanti that seems to resonate most deeply with him.

“I haven’t forgotten Ashanti for a second,” Nelly stated. “She’s like the rainbow of my life.”

The couple was adored by fans in the early 2000s, known for their chemistry and support for each other. Their split in 2014 left many disappointed, yet both continued to flourish in their careers. Despite moving on, it appears that the bond between Nelly and Ashanti remains strong.

In the interview, Nelly acknowledged that while his time with Shantel was genuine, he couldn’t ignore the reminders of Ashanti. “Shantel is an amazing person, and we had great times together. But there was always something about her that made me think of Ashanti,” he reflected. “It wasn’t fair to Shantel, and I didn’t realize it at the time, but looking back, I see it now.”

Nelly’s comments revealed the depth of his feelings for Ashanti, suggesting that their connection was unique and irreplaceable. “Ashanti is special,” he added. “She’s always been a major part of my life, and that hasn’t changed. She brightens my world like a rainbow, especially when things get tough.”