Ashanti Honors Irva Gottie: “We Created a Legacy”

Tribute to Irv Gotti

Auchanti paid tribute to the founder of Inc. Irv Gotti, who passed away at the age of 54 at the beginning of this week.

The late leader, producer, and mogul’s death was confirmed by Hollywood Reporter on Thursday (February 6), although the cause of death has not yet been disclosed. It was previously reported that he had suffered a stroke in 2024.

Musical Legacy and Collaborations

Gotti (born Irving Domingo Lorenzo Jr.) founded a record label focused on rap, where notable acts included Ashanti and Ja Rule.

He discovered Ashanti as a teenager and in 2003 won a Grammy for the joint production of her debut album of the same name, which was awarded Best Modern R&B Album. The following year, he was also nominated as a co-writer for her track “Rock Wit U (AWWWW Baby)”, which was nominated for Best R&B Song.

Having taken to Instagram on Friday (February 7), the singer shared a heartfelt tribute to Gotti, writing: “I can’t believe that it all ended like that … and it’s so sad,” as reported by TMZ. “In the last few years, we have not been on the best terms, but as I always said, through our ups and downs, I will always be grateful for everything that you did for me. We made history, and this will remain endless.”

She continued: “I always respected your musical genius and your ability to push me to be my best … Everything that came from greatness and positive experiences far outweighs the dark and negative times. I have always prayed for you to find peace. Sending love and prayers to the whole family. Rest in peace. Rest well, Irv.”

In 2022, Gotti executive produced History of Murder Inc., a five-episode documentary that explored the label’s history in depth. The documentary presented disputes regarding claims made by his brother Lorenzo that IRV had an affair with Ashanti while married. Ashanti denied the claims at that time, stating: “We dated, but was IRV my boyfriend? I was his girlfriend? Never.”

Last year, Gotti was anonymously accused of repeated sexual violence during incidents from 2020 to 2022. His brother Lorenzo “categorically” denied these accusations.

Gotti initially worked in A&R at Def Jam in the 1990s, playing a crucial role in the revival of the label in the late 90s, following deals with artists such as Jay-Z, Ja Rule, and DMX. By the late 90s, Def Jam’s worth was estimated at over $100 million, which allowed Gotti to expand the label through his new subsidiary, Murder Inc.

Through Murder Inc., Gotti expanded his repertoire, working with various artists, including Jennifer Lopez, Alicia Keys, Aaliyah, Eve, and others. He also ventured into production, operating under the name DJ IRV.

As DJ IRV, he released “Can I Live” from Jay-Z’s acclaimed 1996 debut, Reasonable Doubt. He continued to produce for various artists, including Vanessa Carlton, Kanye West, Christina Milian, Ashanti, Jennifer Lopez, Fat Joe, R. Kelly, and many more.