NELLY - NELLY AND ASHANTI: IT'S OFFICIAL

Hip-hop star NELLY has finally confirmed reports he is dating R+B singer ASHANTI, after over a year together.

The HOT IN HERRE hitmaker, 30, began his secret relationship with the 24-year-old FOOLISH beauty in November 2003.

SAMUEL L JACKSON told reporters earlier this week (begs06DEC04) the rapper had been a regular visitor to the set of his forthcoming film COACH CARTER, bringing organic vegetarian meals to Ashanti, who also stars in the movie.

Nelly reluctantly admits he is romancing Ashanti, saying, "She's single and I am single. Have we dated? Yes. We enjoy each other's company and we're cool."