Irv Gotti, the co-founder of Murder Inc. Records, has died at the age of 54. The Hollywood Reporter confirmed his death on Wednesday, February 5, 2025. Def Jam Recordings, the parent label of Murder Inc., also confirmed his death.
The cause of death has not been officially disclosed. However, Gotti has faced health issues in recent years, including diabetes and a minor stroke in early 2024. In August 2024, his representative stated that he was recovering at home with his family after changing his diet to eat healthier. On Feb. 4, 2025, unverified reports circulated on social media that Gotti had suffered a severe stroke.
Irv Gotti Biography
Irving Domingo Lorenzo Jr. or DJ Irv significantly impacted the music world. He co-founded Murder Inc. Records in 1998, which became a prominent label in the late 1990s and early 2000s. He was instrumental in the careers of artists such as Ja Rule, DMX, and Ashanti.
| Real Name | Irving Domingo Lorenzo Jr. |
| Nickname | Irv Gotti or DJ Irv |
| Occupation/Profession | Record producer, Disc jockey, Songwriter, Record executive, Television producer |
| Birth Date | June 26, 1970 |
| Age | 54 years |
| Birthplace | Hollis, Queens, New York City, New York, USA |
| Death | February 5, 2025 · New York City, New York, USA (undisclosed) |
| Nationality | American |
| Father | Poppi Lorenzo |
| Mother | Nee Nee Lorenzo |
| Ex-Wife | Debbie Lorenzo |
| Children | Angie, JJ, and Sonny |
| Net Worth | $25 million |
Early Life
Irv Gotti, born Irving Domingo Lorenzo Jr. on June 26, 1970, in Hollis, Queens, New York City, is a renowned American record executive, producer, and songwriter. He grew up in a predominantly African-American and Latino neighborhood, which heavily influenced his musical tastes and career path. His parents, Poppi Lorenzo and Nee Nee Lorenzo were of Dominican descent, and they instilled in him a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for music.
Irv Gotti Career
Irv Gotti’s career in the music industry began in the early 1990s when he started working as an intern at Def Jam Recordings. His big break came when he met and began collaborating with rapper DMX. Gotti’s production skills quickly gained recognition, and he became a sought-after producer in the hip-hop community.
In 1997, Gotti co-founded Murder Inc. Records (later renamed The Inc. Records) with his brother Chris Lorenzo. The label became a powerhouse in the late 1990s and early 2000s, signing and developing artists like Ja Rule, Ashanti, and Charli Baltimore. Gotti’s production style, characterized by its gritty, street-oriented beats, helped define the sound of East Coast hip-hop during this period.
Gotti also made a name for himself as a music video director, working on visuals for many of his label’s artists. His work with Ja Rule and Ashanti, in particular, helped catapult them to stardom. Hits like “Always on Time” and “Foolish” became anthems of the early 2000s, solidifying Gotti’s reputation as a hitmaker.
Legal Issues and Comeback
In the mid-2000s, Gotti and Murder Inc. faced legal troubles, including allegations of money laundering and connections to drug kingpin Kenneth “Supreme” McGriff. Although Gotti was eventually acquitted, the legal battles took a toll on his career and the label’s reputation.
Despite these setbacks, Gotti made a comeback in the 2010s. He returned to producing and worked with a new generation of artists. He also ventured into television, creating and executive producing the BET series “Tales,” which is based on hip-hop culture and features reenactments of real-life stories.
Irv Gotti Wife & Personal Life
Irv Gotti has been relatively private about his personal life. He was previously married to Debbie Lorenzo, with whom he has three children: two sons, JJ and Sonny, and a daughter, Angie. The couple divorced in 2013 after several years of marriage.
Gotti has been linked to several high-profile relationships over the years, including with singer Ashanti. Their professional and personal relationship was the subject of much media speculation, though neither party has confirmed the details of their romance.
Irv Gotti Net Worth
Irv Gotti’s net worth is estimated to be around $25 million. His wealth comes from his successful career as a record producer, songwriter, and executive, as well as his ventures in television and other business endeavors.
Legacy
Irv Gotti’s impact on the music industry is undeniable. He played a crucial role in shaping the sound of hip-hop and R&B in the late 1990s and early 2000s. His ability to discover and develop talent, coupled with his distinctive production style, has left a lasting legacy in the world of music.
Despite facing numerous challenges throughout his career, Gotti has remained a resilient and influential figure in the entertainment industry. His story is one of perseverance, creativity, and an unwavering passion for music.