Irving Domingo Lorenzo Jr. (June 26, 1970 – February 5, 2025), professionally known as Irv Gotti (or DJ Irv), was an influential American record producer and record executive. As the co-founder of Murder Inc. Records in 1998, an imprint of Def Jam Recordings, he played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of early 2000s hip-hop and R&B, working with artists such as DMX, Ashanti, Ja Rule, and Jay-Z.
A visionary in the music industry, Gotti’s legacy extends beyond hit records. His imprint on hip-hop culture was further chronicled in the 2022 BET documentary The Murder Inc. Story, which detailed his rise, controversies, and lasting impact on the industry.
“Def Jam has lost one of its most creative soldiers who was hip-hop,” says Lyor Cohen, who held executive roles at the label from 1988 to 2004 and was instrumental in its early days. Now serving as YouTube’s global head of music, Cohen reflects, “When we were on bended knee, he brought the heat and saved our asses. 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.”
Gotti’s passing comes just a year after he suffered a minor stroke related to his long battle with diabetes. While he had made lifestyle changes to manage the condition, he openly discussed the challenges of living with diabetes during a 2023 appearance on Drink Champs, where Gotti reflected on his journey and the adjustments he had to make.
Throughout his life, Gotti was deeply devoted to his family. As the youngest of eight children, he often spoke about his admiration for his parents, whom he affectionately called “Née Née and Poppi.” He celebrated their resilience and journey from their humble beginnings in Hollis, Queens, to a life of success and abundance.
His love for his family was evident in the many heartfelt messages he shared on social media, including a touching tribute on the second anniversary of his father’s passing:
“Not one day has passed that I don’t think of you, Poppi. I talk to you like you’re still here. I hope I’m making you proud. My promise to you will be kept—everyone that comes from you and Née Née will be good. Your boy is a man!”
Gotti’s influence on music, business, and culture remains undeniable. His legacy will continue through the countless artists he helped shape, the music that defined an era, and the family he cherished above all else.
He is survived by his mother, siblings, children, and a legacy that will never be forgotten.
Irv’s Hits:
- “Can I Live” JAY Z. (Reasonable Doubt)
- “Sh!t’s Real” Mic Geronimo (The Natural)
- “What’s Luv?” Fat Joe (feat. Ja-Rule and Ashanti) [Jealous Ones Still Envy (J.O.S.E)]
- “How We Roll” Big Pun (feat. Ashanti) (Endangered Species)
- “Can I Get A…” JAY Z, Amil and Ja Rule (Vol.2… Hard Knock Life)
- What’s My Name.” DMX (…And Then There Was X)
- “Hot Spot” Foxy Brown. (Chyna Doll)
- “Jimmy Choo” Shyne, Ashanti (godfather buried alive)
- “I’m Real” Jennifer Lopez (feat. Ja Rule) (Pain is Love)
- “Livin’ It Up” Case Ja Rule
