Irv Gotti, the founder of Murder Inc. Records and a prominent figure in hip-hop and R&B, has passed away at 54. The exact cause of death is not yet known, but Gotti had been dealing with health issues related to strokes and diabetes.
Gotti’s career took off in the late 1990s and early 2000s, during which he worked with notable artists like Ja Rule, Ashanti, and DMX. His signature production style blended hip-hop beats with melodic hooks, influencing a string of crossover hits between 2001 and 2004.
Gotti played a key role in the success of artists like Ja Rule and Jennifer Lopez, who had massive commercial success with songs like “I’m Real” and “Ain’t It Funny.” He also co-produced albums for Vanessa Carlton and worked with Kanye West, Memphis Bleek, Fat Joe, and Christina Milian.
Gotti faced setbacks in the mid-2000s due to an FBI investigation into alleged ties with a drug kingpin. However, he had since reinvented himself by expanding into television production with BET’s “Tales” series.
The music industry is mourning Gotti’s loss, with tributes pouring in from across the board. Notable figures like 50 Cent and Lyor Cohen have shared their condolences on social media.
Source: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/music-news/irv-gotti-murder-inc-founder-dies-1236128314