Jeffrey Bruce Atkins Sr., better known by his stage name
Ja Rule, is an American rapper, singer, and actor. Born and raised in New York City, Ja Rule became known for blending gangsta rap with pop and R&B sensibilities. He signed with Irv Gotti's Murder Inc Records, an imprint of Def Jam Recordings to release his debut studio album
Venni Vetti Vecci (1999), which spawned his first hit single, "Holla Holla". In 2001, he peaked the
Billboard Hot 100 on three occasions with his single "Always on Time" and his guest appearances on Jennifer Lopez's songs "I'm Real " and "Ain't It Funny".