Became engaged to legendary hip-hop MC Nas on Christmas Eve 2002. Born to an African American father and a Chinese-Puerto Rican mother. Her name is a combination of her parents' names. Grew up in a middle-class neighborhood in Harlem

When she was 13, she shaved her head and, after it grew back, dyed it a succession of colors (blue-black, blood red, green, orange, platinum blond, and pink).

At 16, she was accepted as a drama major at New York's renowned La Guardia School for the Arts

Her third album, "Tasty," was certified platinum in the UK but not in the US. Her wedding gown was a green design made by Matthew Williamson.

Monday 26th February 2006: Won Best International Newcomer at the 2001 Brit Awards. Announced that she is expecting her first child. Son, Knight Jones, was born July 22, 2009. He weighed 7 lbs. 8 oz.

"I had always been a fan of Nas, but I never met him. This is the one guy in the industry who's like the phantom rapper." "You know what's funny? I'm a celebrity here but a star in Europe..."

Am I R&B because I'm Black? Am I pop because I have a song called "Milkshake"? Or can I just be who the hell I am? Good Lord, people make it seem like we're doing heart transplants here, but we're just making music!

I think he's an amazing songwriter. He portrays his thoughts really well. I'm definitely a fan. I think he's cool. (On Phil Collins)