Flashback Friday: Ashanti and Ani DiFranco

We’ve spent the past week at our old stomping ground Louisville, Ky., but now your favorite couple is back in town after enjoying a much-needed vacation. Emphasis on “much.” Many lives were saved by my departure.

Spring break is truly a beautiful thing. But we ain’t rubbing it in – we had to drop off a few tracks to help you reach your weekend. It was the least we could do.

Edward wants y’all to give Ashanti a break.

Ashanti, The Declaration (2008)

Edd said: Poor Ashanti, what has she done to trigger the wrath of so many women? Sure she can’t blow like Aretha, but neither can Rihanna and y’all like her just fine. And yeah, her acting skills leave MUCH to be desired, but Aaliyah was much worse (RIP, Baby Girl). Ashanti gets no love. I’ll admit, she dropped some dreadful albums in the past (that Chapter II album still gives me the shakes) but The Declaration showed vast improvement. Stronger vocals, better production – The Princess finally hit her stride. Too bad so many people missed out. Sheesh, and y’all call me a hater.

Also check out:
“The Way That I Love You”
“Struggle”

Javacia is a “joyful girl” when she’s listening to Ani.

Ani DiFranco, Dilate (1996)

Jai said: The best way to describe Ani DiFranco’s impact in my life would be to say that her music is the soundtrack to my feminism. Lately Ani’s most recent release Which Side Are You On? has been in heavy rotation. But I decided to take it back and listen to some of the old Ani songs that made me fall for her years ago.

Also check out:
“Joyful Girl”
“Untouchable Face”

Now, it’s your turn. Email edward@soulinstereo.com, hit us up on Twitter @etbowser or @writeousbabe, or stop by the comments section and share your Flashback Friday album.  Leave a couple of sentences describing what makes it so great. We’ll feature your album on the blog.