Alright guys, it look like we can go ahead and put our early 2000’s gear back in the closet… at least for now.
Tonight’s much-hyped Verzuz battle has, unfortunately, been pushed back. Hours before the event was scheduled to take place, Ashanti took to Instagram to announce she had tested positive for COVID-19. The R&B singer and Keyshia Cole were expected to go hit-for-hit in the same venue; however, Ashanti’s diagnosis has obviously squashed those plans.
“Hey all, I can’t believe I’m saying this but I tested positive for COVID-19,” Ashanti wrote on Instagram. “I’m OK and not in any pain. I’m actually down to do the Verzuz from my house … We’re trying to figure it out.”
Though the most Verzuz battles have been conducted face-to-face, the initial events were done from the artists’ respective homes and studios. Early audiences are well aware that the at-home model wasn’t exactly the smoothest, as shoddy wireless connections and audio issues caused some streams to drag out. It was definitely possible for Ashanti make arrangements that would allow her to participate from her residence, but event organizers chose to simply postpone the event by several weeks.
“We cannot put anyone at risk in the process,” read a post on Verzuz’s Instagram page. “First time this has struck us so close to showtime. We apologize to our incredible audience! Get well soon, Ashanti 💜🖤💚 Wear a mask, stay inside, and take COVID-19 seriously. It’s truly affecting our community.”
Ashanti took to her live shortly after the announcement to clarify a few things citing that she believes she caught the virus from a family member. She also announced that the new tentative date will be January 9th.
