Ashanti will open up for R. Kelly!

NEW YORK (R. Kelly Fans Website) - Ashanti will open for R. Kelly during his upcoming, five-date tour in August. Ashanti will be touring in support of her latest set Chapter II, which debuted at Number One atop the US Albums chart on July 19.

Ashanti said that up-and-coming artists really need to be prepared in a number of different ways if they want to make it big in the music game. "I would definitely just say you know you have to really mentally and physically prepare yourself," Ashanti said. "You know you have to have thick skin--definitely have to have thick skin! You have to surround yourself with people that genuinely care about you and your well being because there are so many people out there that try and take advantage of you. And just do you thing. If it's in your heart then always follow the passion that's in your heart and have fun with it."

In addition to her quick-selling album, Ashanti has recently earned a nomination for the 2003 MTV Video Music Awards. Her song, "Rock Wit U (Awww Baby)," is up for the best R&B video. "Rock Wit U" is currently tops on global charts.

Ashanti will open up for R. Kelly on the following dates:

August 15 - Oakland, CA - Oakland-Alameda County Arena
August 16 - Inglewood, CA - Great Western Forum
August 22 - Washington, DC - MCI Center
August 23 - New York, NY - Madison Square Garden
August 30 - Atlanta, GA - Phillips Arena