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The Hip-Hop universe is once again in deep mourning with the passing of producer, DJ, and Murder, Inc. Records co-founder Irving “Irv Gotti” Lorenzo Jr., who passed away on February 5, 2025, at the young age of 54.
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As the fearless leader of Murder, Inc., Gotti has seen his greatest success as hits from signees Ja Rule, Ashanti, Lloyd and more flooded the airwaves in the early 2000s. Prior to that, he made his impact in Def Jam’s A&R department, bringing DMX and Jay-Z to the iconic label.
In a statement to the Hollywood Reporter, former Def Jam 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 asses. He comes from a very tight beautiful family from Queens and it’s an honor and a privilege to have known him.”
Gotti’s contributions to the culture will never be forgotten. As a tribute to his unforgettable legacy, check out some of his greatest production credits below.
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