The influential music producer and co-founder of Murder Inc. Records, Irv Gotti, is dead. Best known for shaping the hip-hop and R&B landscape of the early 2000s, Gotti worked with legendary artists like Ja Rule and Ashanti, creating some of the era’s most iconic hits. As the industry mourns his loss, many are wondering—what led to his untimely death?
Here’s what we know so far about Irv Gotti’s death.
Irv Gotti dead at the age of 54
Irv Gotti, the music producer, is reportedly dead at 54.
His death was confirmed by The Hollywood Reporter, though the cause remains unknown. Gotti, born Irving Domingo Lorenzo Jr., had suffered a minor stroke in early 2024. Reports indicated he had been managing diabetes for years, which contributed to his health struggles.
Gotti rose to prominence in the late 1990s and early 2000s as the founder of Murder Inc. Records. He played a significant role in the success of artists like Ja Rule and Ashanti. His production style blended hip-hop beats with R&B melodies, resulting in multi-platinum hits such as Ja Rule’s “Always on Time,” Jennifer Lopez’s “I’m Real,” and Ashanti’s “Foolish.” Murder Inc. sold millions of records globally.
Before launching Murder Inc. in 1998, Gotti worked at Def Jam as an A&R executive. He produced “Can I Live” from Jay-Z’s 1996 debut Reasonable Doubt and executive-producing DMX’s 1998 album It’s Dark and Hell Is Hot.
Gotti’s career and life were marked by struggles. In 2005, authorities charged Gotti and his brother Chris Lorenzo with money laundering, alleging that they funneled drug money. However, a jury acquitted them in December 2005. This trial significantly impacted Gotti’s music career, slowing his output. Later on, he transitioned to television, producing BET’s Tales and the 2022 docuseries The Murder Inc. Story.
Gotti is survived by his three children, Angie, Sonny, and Jonathan Wilson; his mother, Nee Nee Lorenzo; his sisters, Tina and Angie; and his brother, Chris Lorenzo.
Originally reported by Vritti Johar on ComingSoon.net.
