By Ruth Gbaka
Irv Gotti, the influential music producer and co-founder of Murder Inc. Records, has died at the age of 54.
Born Irving Domingo Lorenzo Jr. on June 26, 1970, in Queens, New York, Gotti was instrumental in shaping the hip-hop and R&B landscape, working with prominent artists such as DMX, Ja Rule, Ashanti, and Jennifer Lopez. He passed away on February 5, 2025, in New York City.
Throughout his career, Gotti faced various challenges, including legal battles and health issues. In 2005, he and his brother, Chris Lorenzo, were acquitted of money laundering charges.
In early 2024, Gotti suffered a minor stroke, and he had been open about his struggles with diabetes, which he had battled for years.
The exact cause of his death has not been officially confirmed, but it is believed to be related to complications from a stroke and his ongoing health issues.
Tributes have poured in from across the music industry, with many acknowledging Gotti’s significant contributions. Lyor Cohen, former CEO of Def Jam, described him as one of the label’s “most creative soldiers,” and Steve Rifkind, chairman of Loud Records, stated, “Irv, your legacy will be remembered in a big way.”
Gotti is survived by his three children: Angie, Sonny, and JJ.
