Jeffrey Bruce Atkins Sr., known as Ja Rule, is an American rapper, singer, and actor born on February 29, 1976, in New York City. He emerged as a prominent figure in 2000s hip hop by blending gangsta rap with pop influences.
After signing with Murder Inc. Records, he released his debut album, Venni Vetti Vecci (1999), featuring the hit “Holla Holla.” Ja Rule achieved significant success with singles like “Always on Time” and “Put It on Me,” selling over 30 million records globally. He faced scrutiny over the Fyre Festival but was cleared of legal wrongdoing.
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Ja Rule Net Worth
Ja Rule has a net worth of $4 million and made a notable cameo in the 2001 film “The Fast and the Furious,” earning $15,000 for his role as street racer Edwin. Director John Singleton intended to cast him in “2 Fast 2 Furious” with a $500,000 offer, but Ja Rule declined to engage.
This led to Ludacris landing the role of Tej Parker, a character that became a fan favorite. Ja Rule is married to Aisha Murray, with three children: Britney (b. 1995), Jeffrey (b. 2000), and Jordan (b. 2005).
Early Life
Jeffrey Bruce Atkins, born in Hollis, Queens, faced early challenges as his father left when he was young. Raised as an only child after his younger sister, Kristen, died before birth, he was largely cared for by his grandparents while his mother, Debra, worked as a healthcare worker.
Atkins was raised in the Jehovah’s Witness faith until his mother left the religion when he was 12. Shortly thereafter, he began selling drugs in his neighborhood.
Career
Ja Rule began his career in 1994 as a member of Cash Money Click, adopting the stage name shortly thereafter. The group produced their debut single, “Get Tha Fortune,” but disbanded within a year due to legal issues with member Chris Black.
His solo breakthrough came with the song “Time to Build,” featuring Jay-Z and DMX. After signing with Def Jam in 1998, Ja Rule released his debut album, Venni Vetti Vecci, in 1999, reaching #1 on the Billboard 200. Following multiple successful albums, he took a hiatus, later launching Murder Inc Records post-incarceration in 2013.
Personal Life
Ja Rule is married to Aisha Murray, and together they have three children: Britney (b. 1995), Jeffrey (b. 2000), and Jordan (b. 2005). In February 2021, he completed an online course at Harvard Business School, proudly sharing his certificate on Twitter.
Throughout his career, Ja Rule has received significant recognition, earning four Grammy nominations and winning three Source Awards, an MTV Video Music Award, a World Music Award, a BET Award, a GQ Men of the Year Award, a Teen Choice Award, and an NAACP Image Award.
How Many Platinum Albums Does Ja Have?
Ja boasts a legacy that includes four platinum albums. He also has six albums that charted in the top 10, with two reaching the No. 1 spot.
Conclusion
Ja Rule’s journey from the streets of Hollis to the pinnacle of the music industry is a testament to his talent, resilience, and adaptability. With platinum records, collaborations with industry giants, and a net worth of $4 million, his legacy is solidified in the annals of hip-hop history.
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FAQ About Ja Rule
- What is Ja Rule’s real name?
- Jeffrey Bruce Atkins Sr.
- When did Ja make his music debut?
- He debuted in 1999 with Venni Vetti Vecci.
- How many children does Ja Rule have?
- He has three children.
- Was Ja Rule involved in the Fyre Festival controversy?
- Yes, he co-founded the fraudulent Fyre Festival with Billy McFarland.
- Has Rule won any Grammy Awards?
- Ja Rule has been nominated for four Grammy Awards throughout his career.
