Ashanti made time to visit with Atlantic City's youth before her show Friday night.
The Grammy-winning hip-hop star was at the All Wars Memorial Building to visit with young aspiring artists.
The singer has a long history with the city. Her godmother is Nynell Langford, the city's former first lady.
"Most celebrities don't come in the community when they come in town," said Elijah Langford, whose DemCats sponsored the event.