As expected, Mashonda has responded to Alicia Keys’ JET interview in which she claimed that she did not start dating her current husband, Swizz Beatz, while he was still with his former wife, Mashonda. Speaking with Global Grind, Mashonda said at this point, “Not much surprises me anymore when it comes to this situation.”
What was your initial reaction when you caught wind of Alicia’s JET Magazine interview?
Not much surprises me anymore when it comes to this situation. I truly thought that everyone’s priority was the well being of the children involved. I don’t see the sense in throwing oil on a fire, it just takes us back to point A. The Jet interview just added insult to injury. I can’t figure out how this makes us better. How is it a positive, humanitarian gesture? But artists must protect their reputation and I get that.
In the interview Alicia Keys says "…[They] were apart for some time before we ever got together…that doesn’t matter to those who take pleasure in trying to knock others down…there’s no need to fight what’s not true…" Did you feel like this was a indirect stab at your open letter?
There have been many stabs and shots taken, thankfully they don’t bother me the way they used to. I’ve never lied about one thing involving the demise of my marriage. No, we were not “apart” or separated, and that’s just a fact that can be proven in many ways. Blessings have a way of disguising themselves. This situation has helped me to understand life and what really matters.
Most people have to deal with their divorces and infidelities in private, but your situation unfolded in front of the public. How has this taken a toll on you?
There is a level of humiliation and criticism that the average person wouldn’t be able to conceive, it really altered my life, but gave me a super thick skin. It’s been a rollercoaster ride. I’ve lost weight, gained weight, lost some hair and almost lost hope and mental focus. For months I saw a therapist because I needed someone to assist me in putting the pieces back together. There was a lot of stress and pain, it’s been challenging. I’ve found ways to cope and not get consumed in a dark space. You have to take care of yourself and move forward. In my case, I have a child and live for him. I have a purpose and I won’t give up on it.
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