Murder Inc. Records Co-Founder Irv Gotti Dies At 54

Hip-hop mogul Irv Gotti, who co-founded Murder Inc. Records, died Feb. 5 at age 54. He was the executive producer of DMX’s debut album, 1998’s It’s Dark and Hell Is Hot, and Ja Rule’s first album, 1999’s Venni Vetti Vecci, as well as producing songs for Jay-Z, Aaliyah, Fat Joe, Ashanti and Mary J. Blige, among other big-name artists in hip-hop and R&B.

Def Jam Recordings shared a statement on social media Feb. 5 announcing Gotti’s death. The New York Times noted that Def Jam was the parent label for Murder Inc. and Gotti also worked at Def Jam as an A&R executive. The statement did not include a cause of death:

“Def Jam Recordings and the extended Def Jam family of artists, executives and employees, are deeply saddened at the loss of Irv Gotti.

“His contributions at Def Jam, as both an A&R executive and in partnership with Murder, Inc., helped pave the way for the next generation of artists and producers, a force that reshaped the soundscape of hip hop and R&B. His creative genius and unwavering dedication to the culture birthed countless hits, defining an era of music that continues to resonate with fans worldwide.

“Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and all those who were touched by his work.”

The Hollywood Reporter notes that Gotti survived “a number of strokes in recent years and had also battled diabetes-related issues.”

Gotti was born Irving Lorenzo and later went by “Gotti” after Jay-Z coined the nickname in reference to the late Gambino family boss John Gotti, according to the Associated Press. The AP points out that although Gotti ditched the word “Murder” from the title of his label after he was investigated in the early 2000s for allegedly laundering drug money, he proclaimed he wouldn’t change his name. Gotti and his brother Chris, who he co-founded Murder Inc. Records with in 1998, were acquitted in 2005.

People noted his other legal troubles included a lawsuit filed in July 2024 by a woman who claims she was raped and abused over the course of a two-year period between 2020 and 2022. A representative for Gotti denied the allegations to People, which they said “represent an affront to women who have truly suffered abuse.”

Gotti started working as a DJ for parties when he was 15 and then went on to work as a music producer and talent scout, according to the New York Times. Milestones in his career include helping discover Jay-Z and DMX.

Gotti is survived by his three children, Angie, Sonny, and JJ, who posted a joint statement on social media:

“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved father, Irving “Irv Gotti” Lorenzo, on February 5, 2025. Surrounded by family and friends, he departed this world, leaving behind a legacy that will forever resonate in the hearts of those who knew him and the countless lives he touched.

“Our dad was an incredible man, a true visionary who transformed the hip-hop industry and changed the game for artists and fans alike. His passion for music and dedication to his craft inspired many, and his contributions will continue to influence future generations.

“As we navigate this difficult time, we kindly ask for privacy while we grieve the loss of our dad, son, brother, uncle, and friend. We take comfort in knowing that his spirit will live on through his music and the love he shared with all of us.

“Thank you for your understanding and support during this challenging time.”