Irv Gotti was a music producer and co-founder of Murder Inc. Records, working with artists such as DMX, Jay-Z, Jennifer Lopez, Ja Rule, and others.
- Died: February 5, 2025 (Who else died on February 5?)
- Details of death: Died in New York City at the age of 54.
- We invite you to share condolences for Irv Gotti in our Guest Book.
Irv Gotti’s legacy
For a time, Gotti’s hand could be heard on songs from some of the biggest music artists of the modern era, from Jay-Z to DMX (1970–2021), Jennifer Lopez, Kanye West, Ashanti, and more.
Born Irving Lorenzo in Queens, New York – specifically in the Hollis section of Queens, birthplace of the pioneering hip-hop group Run DMC – Gotti began his career as DJ Irv, producing “Can I Live” from Jay-Z’s 1996 debut album, “Reasonable Doubt.” The following year, he helped Def Jam Records sign future superstar DMX and oversaw production on his first LP, “It’s Dark and Hell is Hot.” The album debuted at No. 1, made DMX a massive star, and secured Gotti’s place in music.
Thanks to those early successes, Def Jam offered Gotti his own imprint under the Def Jam banner. Murder Inc. Records was born, with the new label’s debut being Ja Rule’s first album, “Venni Vetti Vecci,” all of which Gotti co-produced.
Over the years, he worked with Ashanti (“Foolish” and “Rock Wit U (Awww Baby)”), Mary J. Blige, Fat Joe (“What’s Luv?”), West, Lopez, and other artists. He won a Grammy Award in 2003 for his co-production on Ashanti’s debut, and was nominated again the following year, also for work with Ashanti. According to Billboard, he was listed as a producer on 28 Hot 100 singles during his career.
Though his time in music’s spotlight was filled with ups, Gotti experienced downs, too. In 2005, he was charged with money laundering and conspiracy; he was acquitted of all charges. In 2024, he was sued by an anonymous party for alleged sexual assault and rape. Gotti also suffered from health problems, including complications from diabetes and a series of strokes.
Tributes to Irv Gotti
Full obituary: The New York Times
