Longtime friends Ashanti and Ja Rule have been in the game with one another ever since she signed to Murder Inc. more than 20 years ago. The two have taken stages worldwide over the years as they perform collaborative singles like “Always On Time,” “What’s Luv?,” and “Mesmerize.” They’re even set to headline the upcoming “I Love RNB” Festival this May out in Long Beach, Ca. Their sibling-like relationship is ever-apparent in Ashanti’s latest tribute to Ja, who celebrates his 47th birthday today.
The “Falling For You” singer uploaded photos of them performing side by side in the celebratory post. Ashanti also shared a video montage of them on stage together over the years, posting it on her Instagram Story. Ja Rule, born Feb. 29, responded to his play-sister’s posts with several heart emojis. Artists Fat Joe and Ginuwine also shouted out the Queens emcee in Ashanti’s comments.
Ashanti Celebrates Her “Big Bro” In New Post
Ahead of his birthday, Chicago lyricist Lupe Fiasco showed loved to Ja Rule as well, calling him his “favorite rapper.” Upon meeting each other backstage at a recent show, Lupe tells him “This all I need right here.” “Listen, I grew up on Ja Rule, you feel me?,” he tells nearby cameras. “I don’t give a f*ck what no motherf*cka say. Ask me who’s my favorite rapper, who I was listening to when I was coming up. Even now!” Rule then went on to express his gratitude towards Lupe, who he calls a “lyricist lyricist.”
These last two occurrences have pelted Ja Rule back into the spotlight as he prepares to hit the stage again. Ashanti, on the other hand, has been a mainstay in the headlines for her music and risqué Instagram photos. Most recently, the celebrated songwriter was spotted wearing one of ex Nelly’s signature chains. The two dated for some time over ten years ago, and now fans speculate their relationship has been rekindled. Back in December, the “Bahama Mama” appeared on The New Norm with Selena Hill and admitted she’s open to collaborating with him again. “If an opportunity presents itself to make a record and get to the bag, we’re probably gonna be all in,” she relays to the host.
[Via]