Recommendations for camera lenses

[kendallt]

I know this has probably been asked before, so bear with me. Since there are some A-Mazing photographers here, and I'm in need of your advice. I have a Canon Rebel XS and am looking to upgrade from the kit lens. Ideally, I'd like something that will give me a fantastic shallow depth of field in my portrait-type shots.

I'll eventually also be looking for a good zoom lens, but for now, I want to start with more of a portrait-type. I've heard that the 50mm f/1.8 is good. I have never used a prime lens before though, so it makes me a bit nervous. I have no idea where to even start when it comes to the zoom lens. The options out there are soooo overwhelming! My head hurts.