Nothing says early-aughties nostalgia like Ashanti, who was the first lady of Murder Inc. during the label's prime. Before she had a lit Instagram, the singer couldn't miss when it came to making hits. Ashanti turns 35 years old today (Oct. 13).

Ashanti's mainstream breakthrough came from a source that inspired many other breakthroughs: A poisonous, addictive relationship. "Foolish" rode the "One More Chance (Remix)" sample straight to the No. 1 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 where it stayed for an impressive 10 weeks. The hits kept coming: "Rain on Me," "Rock wit U (Awww Baby)" and "Baby," which was notable for turning an ad-lib into an earworm hook.

She was even more impressive when she teamed up with Ja Rule. No Ja Rule-Ashanti collaboration peaked lower than No. 6 on the Hot 100. The two most popular tracks from their work together are "Always on Time" and "Wonderful." Of course, who can forget her collabo with Fat Joe, "What's Luv?"

Massive singles translated into massive album sales. Ashanti's first three albums (not including her Christmas project) all went platinum.

As is the case with all artists, Ashanti's hit-making abilities declined; 2008's "The Way That I Love You" was her last big song. She's kept the momentum going though with the release of her Braveheart album last year. However, her biggest hits have aged well, and her easy-on-the-eyes Instagram definitely makes sure she's not out of cultural focus.

Watch Ashanti Perform "Foolish" for Off the Record

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