American record executive and music entrepreneur Irv Gotti has died, according to US media reports.
Gotti, born Irving Lorenzo Jr., reportedly passed away on Wednesday at the age of 54 after suffering a stroke.
Alongside his brother Chris, Gotti co-founded Murder Inc. Records as an imprint of Def Jam Records in 1998, playing a pivotal role in shaping the hip-hop and R&B landscape. He was instrumental in the rise of stars such as Ja Rule, Ashanti, and DMX, helping to define the sound of the early 2000s.
According to Billboard, Gotti is credited as a producer on 28 charting Billboard Hot 100 hits, working with artists such as Jay-Z, Mary J. Blige, Fat Joe, and Ye (formerly Kanye West).
His contributions to the music industry have left a lasting impact, and tributes from fans and artists continue to pour in following news of his passing.

