Irving Domingo Lorenzo Jr.,better known as Irv Gotti, was a visionary music producer and co-founder of Murder Inc. Records.Born on June 26, 1970, in Queens, New York, Gotti's influence on the hip-hop and R&B industry is undeniable
Early Career and Rise to Fame
Gotti began his career as DJ Irv, producing tracks for well-known artists like Jay-Z and DMX[43dcd. His breakthrough came with the production of DMX's debut album, "It's Dark and Hell is Hot," which debuted at number one on the Billboard 2000. This success led to the creation of Murder Inc. Records under the Def Jam Recordings umbrella.
Contributions to the Music Industry
Throughout his career, Gotti worked with numerous artists, including Ja Rule, Ashanti, Jennifer Lopez, and Kanye West. He produced hit songs like "Can I Get A..."by Jay-Z, "Always On Time" by Ja Rule, and "Foolish" by Ashanti. His work earned him a Grammy Award in 2003 for his production on Ashanti's debut album.
Challenges and Triumphs
Despite his success, Gotti faced legal challenges, including a money laundering charge in 2005, from which he was acquitted. He also dealt with health issues, including diabetes and strokes, but continued to work passionately until his passing.
Legacy and Impact
Irv Gotti's legacy is marked by his dedication to the craft and his ability to shape the soundscape of hip-hop and R&B. His contributions helped pave the way for future generations of artists and producers. His children, Angie, Sonny, and JJ, continue to honor his memory and his impact on the industry
Irv Gotti passed away on February 5, 2025, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to influence the music industry for years to come. His vision, creativity, and unwavering dedication to music have left an indelible mark on the world of hip-hop and R&B.
Here is a list of notable albums that Irv Gotti has worked on, along with their approximate album sales:
Albums Produced by Irv Gotti
Ja Rule - Venni Vetti Vecci (1999)
Sales: Approximately 3 million copies
Ja Rule - Rule 3:36 (2000)
Sales: Approximately 3 million copies
Ja Rule - Pain Is Love (2001)
Sales: Approximately 3 million copies
Ashanti - Ashanti (2002)
Sales: Approximately 3 million copies
Fat Joe - Loyalty (2002)
Sales: Approximately 500,000 copies
Ja Rule - The Last Temptation (2002)
Sales: Approximately 1 million copies
Ashanti - Chapter II (2003)
Sales: Approximately 1 million copies
Ja Rule - R.U.L.E. (2004)
Sales: Approximately 500,000 copies
Various Artists - The Murderers (2000)
Sales: Approximately 300,000 copies
Various Artists - The Inc. Compilation (2004)
Sales: Approximately 300,000 copies
Mary J. Blige - Love & Life (2003)
Sales: Approximately 1 million copies
Note
Sales figures are approximate and can vary based on different sources and updates in sales tracking. Irv Gotti has also worked on many singles and collaborations outside of these albums.
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