Ja Rule to perform free concert at Deschutes County Fair & Rodeo this summer
REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Multi-platinum artist Ja Rule will perform a free concert at the Deschutes County Fair & Rodeo in Redmond, Oregon, on Friday, July 31, 2026. The performance is part of the Kendall Toyota of Bend Free Summer Concert Series.
Jeffrey Atkins, known by his stage name Ja Rule, is expected to deliver a high-energy performance featuring iconic hits from his career, bringing summer vibes and entertainment to Central Oregon.
The concert offers a mix of nostalgia and party-ready energy, contributing to the Deschutes County Fair & Rodeo’s family-first experience. Fairgoers can combine the live music with the fair’s traditional offerings, including rides, food, exhibits and community traditions.
The concert is free with standard fair admission. Admission tickets are currently on sale.
Jeffrey Atkins, a native of Hollis Queens, New York, debuted in 1999 with his album "Venni Vetti Vecci" and its lead single "Holla Holla." During the 2000s, Ja Rule was signed to Murder Inc., which was formerly known as The Inc. and led by Irv Gotti.
From 1999 to 2005, Ja Rule had multiple hits that placed in the top 20 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart. These include "Between Me and You" with Christina Milian, and "I'm Real (Murder Remix)" and "Ain't It Funny," both with Jennifer Lopez, which topped the Hot 100. Other number one hits include "Always on Time" with Ashanti, "Mesmerize" with Ashanti, and "Wonderful" featuring R. Kelly and Ashanti. Fans attending the fair can expect songs such as “Always On Time,” “Mesmerize” and “Put It On Me.”
Special VIP front-stage access tickets for the concert will go on sale this Friday at 10:00 a.m. Both fair admission and VIP concert tickets are available for purchase at www.tickets.deschutesfair.com. The Deschutes County Fair & Rodeo thanked its concert sponsors, which include Wilco, Indian Head Casino, Kendall Toyota of Bend and Mike’s Fence Center.
Fair organizers encourage the public to check back next Tuesday for the next concert announcement as the 2026 lineup continues to be revealed.
