Irv Gotti, the famed hip-hop music executive from New York City, has died at the age of 54.
Def Jam Recordings shared a message late Wednesday night confirming his death, saying the label is “deeply saddened.”
“His contribution to Def Jam, as both an A&R executive and in partnership with Murder, Inc., helped pave the way for the next generation or artists and producers, a force that reshaped the soundscape of hip hop and R&B,” the message read in part. “His creative genius and unwavering dedication to the culture birthed countless hits, defining an era of music that continues to resonate with fans worldwide.” By early Thursday morning, the post had more than a hundred comments and thousands of likes from people sharing their regards. Among those paying tribute, Fat Joe posted photo with the caption, “What a Genius, God bless you Irv, [thank you] for all you’ve done for Hip Hop. You changed my life and I will always love you RIP.” Gotti, born Irving Domingo Lorenzo Jr. in Queens, got his start as a talent scout in the mid-1990s, bringing future superstars DMX and Jay Z to Def Jam. He was an executive producer on DMX’s debut album, and he co-founded the record label Murder, Inc., which helped launch the careers of Ashanti Ja rule.
At this point, no details have been released about how or when Gotti died.
