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Irv Gotti, the trailblazing founder of Murder Inc. Records and one of hip-hop’s most influential producers, has passed away after being taken off life support following complications from a stroke. Gotti’s death comes just over a year after he suffered a minor stroke, which he had openly connected to his long-standing battle with diabetes.
In early 2024, Gotti candidly discussed how diabetes had begun to deteriorate his health. He admitted struggling to maintain a healthy lifestyle and manage his insulin intake, challenges that ultimately led to his latest stroke. Following his previous health scare, Gotti was often seen using a cane and appeared visibly slimmer, signaling the toll his health issues had taken. At the time, he described the stroke as a wake-up call and vowed to lead a more health-conscious life, but the battle proved overwhelming.
Born Irving Domingo Lorenzo Jr., Gotti was raised in Hollis, Queens, a neighborhood with deep roots in hip-hop culture. Growing up in a household of eight siblings, he developed an early passion for music, inspired by local legends like Run-D.M.C. and LL Cool J.
In the early 1990s, Gotti began his career as a DJ and producer, grinding in the underground scene until his big break in 1995 with Mic Geronimo’s “Shit’s Real.” This success led him to Def Jam Recordings, one of hip-hop’s most influential labels, where he quickly rose through the ranks.
In 1999, Gotti founded Murder Inc. Records, a Def Jam subsidiary that would soon become a powerhouse in hip-hop and R&B. The label’s breakout success came with Ja Rule, whose blend of rap and melodic hooks produced hits like “Always On Time” featuring Ashanti. Gotti’s ear for crossover appeal was further solidified when he signed Ashanti, whose 2002 self-titled debut album went multi-platinum and earned a Grammy Award.
Under Gotti’s leadership, Murder Inc. dominated the early 2000s with chart-topping singles like “Foolish” by Ashanti, “What’s Luv?” by Fat Joe featuring Ashanti and Ja Rule, and “Livin’ It Up” by Ja Rule. The label became synonymous with a signature sound that blended street sensibilities with mainstream appeal, cementing Gotti’s reputation as a visionary in the music industry.
Despite Murder Inc.’s dominance, Gotti’s career faced serious hurdles. In 2003, he and his brother Chris Lorenzo were accused of money laundering due to alleged ties to drug kingpin Kenneth “Supreme” McGriff. After a highly publicized trial, they were acquitted in 2005, but the investigation left a lasting impact on the label’s success.
The rise of 50 Cent and G-Unit, who engaged in a highly publicized feud with Ja Rule and Murder Inc., further shifted hip-hop’s landscape. Gotti attempted to rebrand Murder Inc. as The Inc. Records, but the label never fully regained its former dominance.
After stepping back from the music scene, Gotti transitioned into television and film. In 2017, he created “Tales”, an anthology series on BET that transformed iconic hip-hop lyrics into cinematic stories. The show was well-received and showcased Gotti’s creative versatility beyond music.
In 2022, Gotti made headlines when he sold a majority stake of his music catalog for $300 million to fund new TV and film ventures through his company, Visionary Ideas Entertainment. His ability to pivot and succeed in new creative arenas demonstrated his resilience and enduring influence.
Irv Gotti’s contributions to hip-hop and R&B are undeniable. From launching the careers of artists like Ja Rule and Ashanti to reshaping the sound of early 2000s music, his impact will be felt for generations. Despite legal battles and health struggles, Gotti remained a pioneering force, pushing creative boundaries until the very end.
Fans, artists, and industry peers are mourning the loss of a true innovator whose vision changed the face of music. Irv Gotti’s legacy lives on through the timeless hits he helped create and the cultural imprint of Murder Inc. Records.
Rest in peace, Irv Gotti. Your music and vision will never be forgotten.
