Eminem and Ja Rule were two of the most prominent artists in the hip-hop scene in the early 2000s, both making waves with their distinct styles and sounds. However, it was Eminem who ultimately proved to be the bigger star, effectively ending Ja Rule's music career.
The feud between Eminem and Ja Rule started in 2002, when Ja Rule took shots at Eminem and his mentor, Dr. Dre, in a freestyle on a radio show. Eminem responded with a diss track called "Say What You Say," which not only took aim at Ja Rule but also included a diss aimed at his label, Murder Inc. Records.
Ja Rule responded with his own diss track, "Loose Change," which poked fun at Eminem's family and personal life. Eminem was quick to respond with "The Sauce," which featured him rapping over Tupac's "Hail Mary" instrumental. Eminem rapped about Ja Rule's lack of originality and reliance on singing on his tracks in the song.
But it was Eminem's next move that would ultimately seal Ja Rule's fate. In 2003, Eminem signed 50 Cent to his label, Shady Records, and the two of them went on to release a diss track called "Hail Mary 2003," which took aim at Ja Rule, Murder Inc., and even his close collaborator, Ashanti.
The song was a huge hit, effectively ending Ja Rule's career. His subsequent album, "Blood in My Eye," was a commercial and critical flop, and he was never able to regain the momentum he had prior to his feud with Eminem.
The impact of Eminem and Ja Rule's feud was felt throughout the hip-hop community. It demonstrated the power of a well-executed diss track, as well as the ability of a rival with enough skill and determination to take down even the biggest stars.
Although the feud between Eminem and Ja Rule was entertaining to watch, it ultimately had a negative impact on Ja Rule's career. Ja Rule's time in the spotlight was effectively ended by Eminem's skillful diss tracks and savvy business moves, and he has struggled to regain his footing ever since.