Irv Gotti’s Def Jam-affiliated label Murder Inc. had two major ingredients: Ja Rule and Ashanti. In 1999, the label saw the quick rise of Queens-born rapper Ja Rule, who debuted with “Holla Holla.” Two years later, Murder Inc. grew to include R&B singer Ashanti: Ja Rule’s album Pain is Love saw the introduction of the songstress on “Always on Time,” and the rest was history. Years later, the pair collaborated once again on “Mesmerize” and “Wonderful.” And they reunited to tour together this summer and fall.
Ja Rule’s track record of working with female artists, besides Ashanti, includes “Between Me and You” featuring Christina Milian, “Put It On Me” featuring Lil’ Mo and Vita, and Jennifer Lopez’s “I’m Real” and “Ain’t It Funny” remixes, which happen to be some of his biggest hits. His hardcore rap style mixed with a little R&B was a recipe for success. Ashanti, after “Always On Time,” scored big on Fat Joe’s “What’s Luv?” Her 2002 self-titled debut album (with songs like “Foolish”) earned a Grammy for Best Contemporary R&B album. Other songs of hers include “Rock Wit U (Awww Baby),” “Rain on Me,” “Only U” and “The Way That I Love You.”
Brooklyn Bowl at The Linq, 7:30 p.m. Oct. 17, starting at $37.50 plus fee, 21+. 702.862.2695
