Irv Gotti, a bigwig in the music world who had a key hand in launching superstars of rap, has passed away at the age of 54. He was the brain behind Murder Inc., the hip-hop label that gave a platform to legends like Ashanti and Ja Rule. Irv’s was confirmed by his family at Def Jam. Speaking from a personal view, Irv Gotti was a revolutionary in the industry, and the music he produced played a HUGE part in my younger years. I still listen to the hits on YouTube. His passing is a massive loss to so many.
Remembering Irv Gotti
Irving Domingo Lorenzo Jr., aka Irv Gotti, and his brother Chris set up this thing called Murder Inc. back in 1998. They didn’t do it alone, and they were part of the Def Jam Records family. These guys have been rubbing shoulders with the big dogs like Jay-Z, DMX, Ruff Ryders, Kanye West, Ja Rule, Fat Joe, Ashanti, and Eve. But that’s not all. Irv has been super busy dropping a bunch of albums loaded with epic collabs, like his 2000 hit, “Irv Gotti Presents The Murderers,” and the 2002 follow-up, “Irv Gotti Presents The Inc.”
Everyone at Def Jam, including artists, colleagues, and staff, are deeply affected by this loss and are expressing their heartfelt condolences right now. Irv’s career was nothing short of phenomenal. He played a pivotal role at Def Jam and with Murder Inc., blazing trails for future artists and producers. He had a magic touch when it came to crafting hits that have stood the test of time. His music continues to touch fans around the globe.
What We Know About His Passing
The specifics are still fuzzy. Irv made major waves in the late 90s and early 2000s, collaborating with rappers who skyrocketed to stardom. Remember Jay-Z, just saying? Irv found himself in hot water back in 2005 when he and his bro were under scrutiny for mixing business with some shady dealings. But they got off the hook. Irv was open about his health struggles on the “Drink Champs” podcast. He’d been battling diabetes, and his kids had concerns about his lifestyle. Still, Irv was all about living life to the fullest. He also shared some unforgettable moments from his Queens upbringing and the bond he had with other rap legends like Biggie Smalls.
Final Thoughts
Loads of heartfelt messages are flooding social media from the rap and hip-hop community. Among those paying respects is Ye, formerly known as Kanye West. Irv worked with Ye on his 2019 banger “Brothers,” and Ye showed his respects by posting a white dove on Insta in memory of his pal. From all of us at Total Apex, our thoughts and prayers are with Irv’s family and friends. We hope you find peace and solace in your time of loss and sorrow.
