Irv Gotti: Hip-hop visionary and founder of Murder Inc. Records dies at 54

The music world is mourning the loss of Irv Gotti, a groundbreaking record executive, music producer, and entrepreneur who revolutionized hip-hop and R&B. Gotti, born Irving Domingo Lorenzo Jr., passed away on February 5, 2025, at the age of 54. While the cause of death has not been confirmed, he had previously battled health issues, including strokes and diabetes-related complications.

Gotti’s family shared the heartbreaking news on his official Instagram account, stating, “With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved father, Irving ‘Irv Gotti’ Lorenzo. 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. Our dad was an incredible man, a true visionary who transformed the hip-hop industry and changed the game for artists and fans alike.”

Rising to prominence in the late 1990s and early 2000s, Gotti played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of hip-hop and R&B. As the founder of Murder Inc. Records, he was instrumental in launching and cultivating the careers of artists such as Ja Rule, Ashanti, and DMX. His signature production style, which seamlessly blended hip-hop beats with melodic hooks, defined an era of music that dominated the charts from 2001 to 2004.

Under Gotti’s direction, Murder Inc. delivered a string of multi-platinum hits, including Ja Rule and Jennifer Lopez’s chart-topping collaborations “I’m Real” and “Ain’t It Funny.” With Ashanti, the label produced iconic tracks such as “Foolish,” “Rain on Me,” and “Mesmerize,” solidifying its place in music history.

Before launching Murder Inc. in 1998, Gotti made his mark at Def Jam Records as an A&R executive. His talent for spotting and nurturing artists led to the signing of hip-hop heavyweights DMX, Jay-Z, and Ja Rule. His production work extended to collaborations with Kanye West, Memphis Bleek, Fat Joe, and Christina Milian. Notably, he co-produced Vanessa Carlton’s 2007 album, Heroes and Thieves, alongside music legends Rick Rubin and Stephan Jenkins of Third Eye Blind.

Despite his meteoric success, Gotti’s career faced challenges in the mid-2000s. In 2003, the FBI raided Murder Inc.’s offices as part of an investigation into alleged ties with drug kingpin Kenneth “Supreme” McGriff. Although Gotti was ultimately acquitted, the legal battle impacted his label’s reputation and operations.

In recent years, Gotti reinvented himself beyond the music industry. He ventured into television with the creation of Tales, a BET anthology series that fused hip-hop with storytelling, further demonstrating his creative genius and ability to evolve with the industry.

News of Gotti’s passing has elicited an outpouring of tributes from across the entertainment world. Lyor Cohen, former CEO of Def Jam and current global head of music at YouTube, reflected on Gotti’s impact: “Def Jam has lost one of its most creative soldiers who was hip-hop. When we were on bended knee, he brought the heat and saved our asses. He comes from a very tight, beautiful family from Queens, and it’s an honor and privilege to have known him. Irv, you will be missed.”

His influence extended beyond music, shaping the culture of hip-hop and inspiring generations of artists and fans alike. He leaves behind a lasting legacy through his music, his innovative spirit, and his contributions to the industry.

Gotti is survived by his three children, Angie, Sonny, and Jonathan Wilson; his mother, Nee Nee Lorenzo; sisters Tina and Angie; and his brother Chris Lorenzo, with whom he co-founded Murder Inc.

As fans and the music industry continue to reflect on his contributions, one thing is certain—his legacy will live on, and his influence on hip-hop will never be forgotten.