Ashanti’s 2014 Dance Just Went Viral—Her Reaction Will Leave You Speechless!

In 2014, Ashanti appeared on The Queen Latifah Show to promote her album Braveheart, and while her performance of the sultry track “I Got It” was memorable, it was one particular dance move that unexpectedly went viral and has remained a part of internet history ever since. The move—referred to as the “scoot”—was a playful, floor-scooting motion that quickly became a meme sensation.

Now, nearly a decade later, Ashanti, 44, is reflecting on the viral moment with a mix of amusement and fondness. In an exclusive conversation with PEOPLE, she described her reaction to seeing her dance move become an internet staple. “It is so hilarious to me, and it’s one of those little memes,” Ashanti said. “Like when you put it in on your phone, if you put in ‘Ashanti,’ the scoot [move] comes up. I’m like, ‘are you kidding me?’ It’s hilarious!”

The “scoot” has since become so iconic that it’s even included as a gif in the designated catalog in iMessage on Apple devices, an acknowledgment of its continued popularity in online culture. But while many might cringe at being the subject of memes, Ashanti takes it all in stride, humorously referencing a TikTok homage to her move from the New York Liberty mascot, Ellie the Elephant, in July 2024.

“What’s the [mascot] from [the New York] Liberty?” Ashanti asked, before her manager jogged her memory. She couldn’t help but laugh, adding, “Shout out to Ellie.”

But what many don’t know is that the “scoot” wasn’t initially part of the choreography—it was born out of necessity. Ashanti revealed the reason for the unorthodox move, explaining, “When I shot the video, my ankle was broken. So we just did the choreography from that [for the live performance].”

The move, born out of an injury, has since become one of the most iconic moments of Ashanti’s career. Despite the unexpected fame of the move, Ashanti is focused on the future. Following the birth of her son, Kareem Kenkaide, with rapper Nelly in July 2023, Ashanti is diving back into her career with new projects and fresh energy.

She recently starred in and served as an executive producer for the drama No Address, which sheds light on the growing issue of homelessness in the U.S. And just around the corner, Ashanti is preparing for the release of her new single “Called You Up,” set to drop next month. Additionally, she’s gearing up for the Bring It Tour, which kicks off in Dublin, Ireland, on April 8, 2024.

“I’m excited about the new staging and upgrades,” Ashanti shared. “Obviously we’ll be over in Europe, so it’s going to be a good vibe, man. I’m excited!”

It’s clear that, despite her viral dance moment, Ashanti is focused on expanding her career and embracing new creative endeavors. And as for the “scoot”? It seems she’s just as amused by its unexpected viral success as her fans are.