Irv Gotti, a famed hip-hop producer who co-founded Murder Inc. Records, has died at age 54.
Gotti, who was born Irving Domingo Lorenzo Jr., passed away on Wednesday, The Hollywood Reporter confirmed.
His children Angie, Sonny, and JJ later posted a loving tribute on Gotti’s Instagram page.
“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved father, Irving ‘Irv Gotti’ Lorenzo, on February 5, 2025. Surrounded by family and friends, he departed this world, leaving behind a legacy that will forever resonate in the hearts of those who knew him and the countless lives he touched,” the statement read. “Our dad was an incredible man, a true visionary who transformed the hip-hop industry and changed the game for artists and fans alike. His passion for music and dedication to his craft inspired many, and his contributions will continue to influence future generations.”
Related: Irv Gotti Reportedly Battling Severe Health Issues, Here’s What We Know
While no official cause of death was released, reports began to surface on Feb. 3 that he had suffered “several strokes.” As Urban Hollywood 411 reported earlier Wednesday, Gotti was said to be on life support.
The music mogul was open about having health problems and in August 2023, while on the “Drink Champs” podcast, he said diabetes was “deteriorating” his body. In 2024, a rep said he was recovering from a “minor stroke.”
Gotti was born in Queens, New York, on June 26, 1970.
He worked in A&R at Def Jam with artists such as DMX and Jay-Z, and later co-founded Def Jam subsidiary, Murder Inc. Records, with his brother Chris in 1998.
The Murder Inc. roster included Ja Rule, who topped the charts with “Always on Time” featuring Ashanti and “Down Ass Chick” featuring Charli Baltimore, just to name a few of his hits. Ashanti was also one of the label’s best-selling artists with her own hits including “Foolish” and “Rain on Me.”
In 2003, federal agents raided Murder Inc. in connection with a money laundering investigation. Chris and Irv Gotti were charged with money laundering and conspiracy to launder money, however, at trial the two were found not guilty. “We did it! We did it!” Irv shouted after the jury returned with the verdict, CBS News reported at the time.
In 2022, Gotti made headlines after boasting on the “Drink Champs” podcast about having an alleged extramarital affair with Ashanti after he signed her to Murder Inc. in the early 2000s.
Weeks later, Ashanti sat down for an interview with radio personality Angie Martinez and dismissed Gotti’s comments.
“It’s a little sad to see a grown man conduct himself in that manner. I feel like the Murder Inc. legacy is so much bigger,” she said. “We accomplished so much and made amazing history, and I feel like the way that he handled it tarnished and it cheapened the brand.”
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