The first lady of The Inc Records returns to prove her musical maturity in “Concrete Rose.”

Ashanti’s music combines R&B (soft, sensual, beautiful, like a rose) and hip-hop (hard, solid, like unbreakable concrete).

Featured artists include T.I., Lloyd, Ja Rule, Shi Shi and 7 Aurelius.

This is Ashanti’s third album since her debut in 2002.

Tracks like “Only You” and “Wonderful” are already hits on the radio.

About eight of the 16 tracks are hot because of the beats and lyrics, not to mention Ashanti’s improved vocal performance.

In the past, a signature Ashanti track would be a redundant song with a catchy beat and simple lyrics.

She’s only 24 years old but has earned acclaim like Aretha Franklin.

That may be a stretch, but she is on her way to what could help her earn that comparison.

To say she has come with her “A” game and realized she couldn’t get away with another track like “Oh, Baby” would be the best way to describe Ashanti’s best work yet.