Ashanti R&B Singer from Brockton, MA

In 1991, Ashanti established and was lead vocalist for R&B band Umoja 9 for twelve years. She is currently one of the lead vocalists for R&B band Soul Source with Rollins Ross, also lead vocalist with smooth jazz band, BlackSole. Their styles offer an alternative to mainstream music by incorporating especially selected material from smooth jazz, poetry and hypnotic rhythms. Versatility is the strength of Ashanti’s performance, whether performing for an intimate crowd on Martha’s Vineyard or to an audience of thousands at Boston’s Bean-Town Jazz Festival. Ashanti has an extensive repertoire that she dynamically delivers her message and uniquely grabs holds of her audiences with sophistication and flair! Miranda Yusef, writer of the South End News said, “Healing is the core of Ashanti’s musical quest and her interaction with and feelings toward the audience is illustrative of her goal of touching people through music”. Ashanti derives her positive nature from her personal and musical influences. When asked about these she immediately sites Lauren Hill, Erykah Badu, Anita Baker, Nancy Wilson, Gladys Knight and Regina Belle. Ashanti has performed summers on Martha’s Vineyard at Lola’s, Foxwoods’ B.B. King Nite-club and in the annual musical review “Women in Song….Men Take Note”. Most recently performed background vocals in opening act for renowned recording artist Freddie Jackson. Kay Bourne from the Arts & Entertainment section of the Bay State Banner newspaper wrote. “Ashanti Munir’s pure and powerful voice brings emotional sunshine to the cloudy day”. To have experienced this lady’s high energy performance is a gift that comes with realness, warmth and soul.