The force behind launching artists like Ja Rule and Ashanti to new heights is no more. The legendary producer overcame countless hurdles and battles throughout his life to build his name and leave a lasting impact on the music industry. His passion fueled some of the biggest Hip-Hop hits and R&B albums of the early 21st century. The Hip-Hop world was struck with grief as The Hollywood Reporter announced his tragic passing. NBA legend Matt Barnes also joined fans in mourning the loss of the music icon, Irv Gotti.

Taking to Instagram Story, Barnes posted the late legend’s photo and wrote, “D—” with a prayer emoji. Born as Irving Domingo Lorenzo Jr., the producer began exploring his chances in the music industry as a DJ. Many might remember the Queens native for his work on Jay-Z’s “Can I Get A…” in 1998 as well as Foxy Brown’s “Hot Spot” in 1999.

At the same time, he began to transition into a new role as an executive producer. One of his first works was on DMX’s 1998 debut album It’s Dark and Hell Is Hot and the soundtrack for the 1998 film Belly. Following this, he kickstarted his own label under the record label Def Jam.

Speaking of the legendary executive producer, music executive Lyor Cohen said, “Def Jam has lost one of its most creative soldiers who was hip-hop. When we were on bended knee, he brought the heat and saved our a—-. He comes from a very tight beautiful family from Queens and it’s an honor and a privilege to have known him. Irv, you will be missed.” 

As he quickly rose to new heights, Gotti teamed up with his brother Chris Gotti and started the famous Murder Inc. in 1998. Not only as a co-founder but as an executive producer, Gotti began to gain more fame. His contribution to the music world will remain unforgettable as several took to social media to send their condolences.

Fans pour in condolences after the heartbreaking news of Irv Gotti’s passing

Under the helm of Murder Inc., Ja Rule launched Venni Vetti Vecci, which was a big success. And then came Ashanti, who signed a deal with the company back in 2001. Gotti was a hugely influential force in the 2000s as this netizen wrote, “THANK YOU FOR MURDA INC IN THE EARLY 2000S 🎵 🙏🏽”

What makes Gotti’s career so inspiring is how he rebuilt his empire after it suffered a blow in 2003 due to federal charges and more. The company was renamed The Inc. and given a new vision. Reminiscing the legend, this netizen praised his work and wrote, “@franceli___ @evieec 😢 he brought some amazing music to our adolescence #JaRule 🫶🏽”

The storms raged again in 2006, with artists leaving his company. But he didn’t give up. In 2013, his label became Visionary, and Murder Inc. restarted in collaboration with 300 Entertainment. He was an inspiration as this netizen wrote, “RIP Irv Gotti, your contribution to the hip hop industry is unmatched, thank you for Murder Inc, that era was legendary! Prayers go out to his family 🙏🏾🕊️✨” 

The veteran suffered several strokes in the past few months. He had diabetes. In an interview with Drink Champs, the late legend detailed how diabetes “deteriorated” his body. While he was taking insulin from time to time, Gotti struggled to keep his diabetes under control. A fan who claimed to have interviewed Gotti once became emotional and wrote, “Oh no… Irv Gotti was my first interview when working for @TMZ as a Papp. Great guy and will be missed. Glad to have met him. Rest in power. 🙏🏽🕊️🌹” His electrifying presence in the music world won’t be forgotten.