Ashanti & Keyshia Cole's 'Verzuz' Battle Postponed After Ashanti Tests Positive For COVID-19
Today'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.
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 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."
The Ashanti and Cole Verzuz is now scheduled for Jan. 9, 2021.