by Irv Gotti, born Irving Domingo Lorenzo Jr., has reportedly passed away at the age of 54. The founder of Murder Inc. Records was instrumental in shaping the sound of early 2000s hip-hop, bringing artists like Ja Rule and Ashanti into the mainstream.
Gotti’s journey from the streets of Hollis, Queens, to the pinnacle of the music industry is a testament to his hustle and vision. He started as DJ Irv, spinning records and producing tracks in the mid-’90s. His big break came when he produced “Can I Live” for Jay-Z’s debut album, Reasonable Doubt, in 1996.
In 1998, he co-founded Murder Inc. Records under the Def Jam umbrella. The label quickly became a powerhouse, delivering chart-topping hits and defining the era’s sound. However, success came with controversy.
In 2003, federal agents raided Murder Inc.’s offices, investigating alleged connections to drug lord Kenneth “Supreme” McGriff. Gotti and his brother, Chris, were accused of laundering money through the label. After a high-profile trial, they were acquitted of all charges in December 2005. Though he beat the case, the investigation shook up Murder Inc., leaving the label wounded and its artists scrambling.
Despite his music industry achievements, Gotti faced personal health battles. He had been struggling with diabetes for years, which led to a minor stroke over six months ago. He made efforts to change his diet and adopt a healthier lifestyle, but his health continued to decline.
In August 2023, Gotti opened up about his struggles during an appearance on the “Drink Champs” podcast. He admitted that diabetes had been “deteriorating” his body and confessed to not managing the condition well, despite living with it for years.
Gotti’s influence on hip-hop is undeniable. He had a knack for recognizing talent and crafting hits that resonated with the times. His work with artists like Ja Rule and Ashanti produced timeless tracks. Beyond music, he ventured into television, creating the BET series Tales, further showcasing his storytelling abilities.
However, his career wasn’t without controversy. Feuds with other industry figures, most notably 50 Cent, kept his name in the headlines. These disputes, combined with legal challenges and health issues, painted a picture of a man whose life was as turbulent as it was successful.
Gotti was previously married to Debbie Lorenzo, with whom he shared three children: Angie, JJ, and Sonny. Their relationship faced challenges, including Gotti’s highly publicized affair with singer Ashanti, which contributed to their eventual separation.
Despite the negatives, Gotti will be remembered for his contributions to hip-hop and shaping the careers of some of the genre’s biggest stars. His legacy will continue to influence artists and fans for years to come.
