Throwback Thursday: Ja Rule – “I Cry” (featuring Lil’ Mo)
Once upon a time — before 50 Cent bullied him into obscurity and before he was palling around with criminals — Ja Rule was a bonafide hit-maker. When I think about Ja today, I prefer to remember that time of creative excellence. It’s not always easy, but I’m committed.
In April of 2001, Ja released “I Cry” (featuring Lil’ Mo) as the fourth and final single from his sophomore set, Rule 3:36. They say sampling is an art form in itself, and if I were to argue in favor of that position, I might present this song as Exhibit A. The song makes clever use of different elements of “Cry Together” by The O’Jays, and the result is pure magic.
There was a time when Ja Rule was ridiculed for singing, but the fact of the matter is that his vocal ability is part of what makes him so special. And on the “I Cry” bridge, we get the very best of Ja Rule the singer.
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