The music world has lost a pioneer. Irving “Irv Gotti” Lorenzo Jr., cofounder of Murder Inc. Records and one of the most influential producers in hip-hop and R&B, passed away on February 5, 2025, at the age of 54. Known for crafting timeless hits and launching careers that shaped an era, Gotti’s untimely death has left an industry grieving. His children, Angie, Sonny, and JJ, confirmed the news in a heartfelt statement, calling their father a trailblazer whose legacy will echo for generations.
Over the course of his career, Gotti built a reputation as a tastemaker who could spot and cultivate talent. Starting at Def Jam Recordings in the late 1990s, he played a pivotal role in signing groundbreaking artists like DMX, Jay-Z, and Ja Rule. He also left his mark as a producer, creating iconic tracks like Jay-Z’s “Can I Live” and serving as an executive producer on DMX’s debut album It’s Dark and Hell Is Hot.
Gotti’s career truly took off in 1998 when he co-founded Murder Inc. Records. Under his leadership, the label became a cultural juggernaut, delivering era-defining hits from artists like Ja Rule, Ashanti, and Lloyd. Murder Inc.’s music dominated airwaves and charts, with unforgettable tracks such as Ashanti’s “Foolish” and “Always On Time” as well as Ja Rule and Jennifer Lopez’s “I’m Real” and “Ain’t It Funny.” Gotti’s ability to merge hip-hop and R&B with mainstream appeal solidified his place as a visionary in the music industry.
"/>Beyond hip-hop, Gotti demonstrated his versatility by signing Vanessa Carlton and co-producing her 2007 album Heroes & Thieves. He also collaborated with legends like Mariah Carey, Mary J. Blige, and Toni Braxton, expanding his influence across multiple genres. His work wasn’t just about creating hits—it was about defining the sound of an era.
However, Gotti’s success was shadowed by personal and health struggles. For years, he battled diabetes, a condition he admitted he had difficulty managing. On a 2023 episode of Drink Champs, Gotti opened up about how the disease was impacting his body and the lifestyle changes he struggled to make. In 2024, he suffered a stroke linked to his condition, which marked a significant decline in his health. Despite efforts to improve his diet and regain strength, the challenges proved too great.
Photo: Prince Williams/ Getty
Gotti’s personal life also faced public scrutiny. In 2024, he was accused of sexual assault, allegations he denied. His contentious relationship with former Murder Inc. artist Ashanti further fueled headlines, particularly after comments he made about their past on Drink Champs. While the controversies added complexity to his legacy, they never overshadowed his monumental contributions to music.
In 2022, Gotti’s influence and the rise of Murder Inc. were spotlighted in BET’s documentary The Murder Inc Story. The series captured his creative genius, resilience, and the challenges he faced in building one of the most successful labels of its time.
As fans and the music industry mourn his loss, Irv Gotti’s legacy stands as a testament to his passion and talent. His work not only defined a generation but also paved the way for future artists to thrive. Gotti’s vision, drive, and determination will continue to inspire, reminding us of the power of music to shape culture and connect people.
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