Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025

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UPDATED: 9:35PM EST February 5, 2025

Irv Gotti, the influential record executive, producer, and entrepreneur best known for founding Murder Inc. Records, has passed away, The Hollywood Reporter confirmed Wednesday. The cause of his death remains undisclosed.

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Gotti rose to prominence in the late 1990s and early 2000s, shaping the sound of hip-hop and R&B with his signature production style. He played a pivotal role in the careers of Ja Rule, Ashanti, and DMX, all of whom achieved massive commercial success. His ability to fuse hard-hitting hip-hop beats with melodic hooks led to numerous crossover hits, including the multi-platinum “Always On Time” by Ja Rule featuring Jennifer Lopez and Ashanti’s chart-topping single “Foolish.”

Before launching Murder Inc., Gotti made his mark as an A&R executive at Def Jam, where he was instrumental in signing DMX, Jay-Z, and Ja Rule—three artists who would become defining figures in hip-hop. Under the alias DJ Irv, he also produced “Can I Live” from Jay-Z’s 1996 debut album Reasonable Doubt. As Murder Inc. evolved, it was later rebranded as The Inc., expanding its roster to include artists like Vanessa Carlton, whose 2007 album Heroes and Thieves Gotti co-produced alongside Rick Rubin and Stephan Jenkins of Third Eye Blind.

Gotti’s impact on the music industry remains undeniable, with his contributions shaping the sound and success of a generation of artists.

This is a developing story. Stay with us for updates. 

Learn more below about who in our culture has passed away so far this year in 2025 Below