According to The Hollywood Reporter and other sources, renowned music producer and industry heavyweight Irv Gotti has passed away at the age of 54. The exact cause of his death is not yet known, but some reports suggest that he had suffered multiple strokes in recent months.
Irv Gotti, whose real name was Irving Domingo Lorenzo Jr., played a key role in shaping the music industry, launching major artists like Ja Rule and Ashanti. Through his record label, Murder Inc., he helped redefine pop and rap music. He produced several hit songs, including I’m Real (Murder Remix) by Jennifer Lopez and Ja Rule, Always On Time by Ja Rule and Ashanti, and What’s Luv? by Fat Joe.
Born in Queens, New York, Irv Gotti started his career as a DJ and producer. He worked on Jay-Z’s Can I Get A… and Foxy Brown’s Hot Spot. Later, he produced DMX’s debut album, It’s Dark and Hell Is Hot, as well as the soundtrack for the movie Belly. His talent caught the attention of Def Jam Recordings, which gave him the opportunity to launch his own label.
In 1998, Irv Gotti founded Murder Inc. alongside his brother, Chris Gotti. The label released Ja Rule’s debut album, Venni Vetti Vecci, which became a massive hit. He later signed Ashanti and released her debut album, which topped the charts.
However, in 2003, Murder Inc. faced legal troubles when it was accused of money laundering linked to drug operations. Additionally, the infamous feud between Ja Rule and 50 Cent further damaged the label’s reputation. As a result, Irv Gotti rebranded the label as The Inc., but struggled as several artists left over the years.
Last year, Irv Gotti suffered a minor stroke due to diabetes. He had revealed that the disease had weakened his body, requiring him to take insulin regularly, though he was never able to fully control it.
Irv Gotti will always be remembered for his contributions to the music industry. His passing has left the music world in mourning.
