R&B singer Ashanti knows numbers don’t lie. The veteran crooner has come forward to celebrate breaking into new Verzuz stats territory with a history number of people tuned into her battle with fellow entertainer Keyshia Cole.
Ashanti’s Verzuz Numbers Are Historic
The New York native went to her Instagram page to geek out over the stats. Ashanti shared a snapshot showing over 6 million IG Live people tuned in this past Thursday.
“A NEW RECORD WAS SET!!!!! With a total of 6 million Instagram live users 1.2 at one time!!! With over 8.1 MILLION PEOPLE TOTAL!!!! Thank you so much to everyone that tuned in and supported us throughout the cancellations and postponements we appreciate you ??❤️ GO STREAM MY NEW SINGLE 2:35 (I want you) NOW!!!??? @verzuztv @applemusic @therealswizzz @timbaland @keyshiacole”
Keyshia Cole’s New Single
This week, Keyshia Cole went to her Twitter page to break new music news to fans. Barring any setbacks or delays, her new anthem will arrive in early February.
“2.5.21 // New Single ‘I Don’t Want To Be In Love’”
Earlier in the week, Ashanti went to her social media pages to unload a new chune. Ashanti’s “2:35 (I Want You)” became available following Thursday night’s Verzuz battle.
“2:35 ( I want you) available everywhere now!!!! ??? link in bio produced by @jrocthaghost art work by @oliver.berrywhite @liltuneshi”
Keyshia’s new song played moments before Ashanti premiered her “2:35” to fans. There was initially no exact drop date or details on when the anthem would arrive.
Following two COVID-19-related delays, Ashanti and Keyshia Cole were finally able to film their VERZUZ battle, which was originally slated for December 12. The first postponement was announced after Ashanti tested positive for the virus. The second delay was in response to rising COVID numbers in the nation, as well as the recent unstable events in Washington D.C. Tonight, the singers finally went head-to-head in a battle of the hits. Both Ashanti and Cole played new songs, as well. Following the VERZUZ match, Ashanti released a new song called “235 (2:35 I Want You).” (Pitchfork)
OT Genasis Crashes The Party
Cole nearly crashed the Internet with a huge Verzuz cameo. Keyshia started up her unforgettable “Love” anthem and moments later, her perceived rap rival O.T Genasis hopped onto the screen as they both laughed and crooned a portion of his Crip-themed version.
O.T. Genasis makes an unexpected and well-received cameo during the Verzuz battle between Ashanti and Keyshia Cole. Cole showed the world they’re on solid terms after appearing to clash in late 2019 when he released his Crip-inspired “Love” remix.
The Entire Verzuz Rounds Playlist
The battle went head to head with classic throwbacks. Ashanti and Cole dug deep into their solo classics and made sure to deliver on ample duets. Check out some of our favorite hard-hitting rounds and decide who you think really won.
Round 1:
Keyshia Cole: I Changed My Mind
Ashanti: Happy
Round 7:
Keyshia Cole: Playa Cardz Right [ft. Tupac Shakur]
Tupac Shakur: Pac’s Life [ft. T.I. and Ashanti]
Round 8:
Keyshia Cole: Love
Ashanti: Rain on Me
Round 11:
Keyshia Cole: Heaven Sent
Ashanti: Baby
Round 20:
Ja Rule: Always on Time [ft. Ashanti]
Keyshia Cole: I Don’t Wanna Be