Music Producer Irv Gotti Dead at 54: Murder Inc. Founder Leaves Behind Hip-Hop Legacy and Immense Property Portfolio

Irv Gotti, the prominent music producer who founded Murder Inc., has died at the age of 54, leaving behind a lasting mark on the hip-hop world and a lavish property portfolio in California.

The record label founder—whose clients included Jennifer Lopez, Ja Rule, Ashanti, DMX, and JAY Z—died after suffering a stroke, according to the Hollywood Reporter.

His family announced the news of his tragic death on Feb. 5 with a statement posted on Instagram: “It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved father, Irving ‘Irv Gotti’ Lorenzo, on February 5, 2025. Surrounded by family and friends, he departed this world, leaving behind a legacy that will forever resonate in the hearts of those who knew him and the countless lives he touched.

“Our dad was an incredible man, a true visionary who transformed the hip-hop industry and changed the game for artists and fans alike. His passion for music and dedication to his craft inspired many, and his contributions will continue to influence future generations.”

Gotti launched Murder Inc. in 1988 as an imprint of Def Jam after he marked a major success by bringing DMX to the music industry.

The producer has been credited on 28 hits and also co-wrote the hit “I’m Real,” featuring Ja Rule.

In 2003, Gotti garnered a Grammy for co-producing Ashanti’s album, which won for best contemporary R&B album.

In addition to his remarkable career in the music industry, Gotti also boasted an impressive property portfolio.

He held the keys to two homes in Encino, CA, both of which he purchased in 2023.

One of the homes boasts eight bedrooms and 10 bathrooms and sprawls across 10,325 square feet.

He paid $10.2 million for the property in February 2023. It features a grand red velvet staircase, oak wood flooring, and an elegant dining area with a chandelier and fireplace. The gorgeous library has dramatic green shelves and a desk.

There is also a wine cellar, a chef’s kitchen, and a primary bedroom with a private balcony.

The backyard offers a swimming pool and a gazebo for the ultimate relaxation.

Gotti purchased his other California home in 2023 for $4.8 million. The 6,600-square-foot home has five bedrooms and five bathrooms.

“The striking entry boasts a dramatic 2 story foyer with soaring ceilings, wide plank European Oak floors and crisp white crown molding throughout,” the listing states.

“The open living space is warm and inviting with a dining room enveloped with a large built-in wrap- around wine rack, the formal living room with fireplace and a butlers pantry passing into the designer done Chef’s kitchen with a Double Island, quartz countertops, farm sink, breakfast bar, walk-in pantry, massive breakfast area with built-in, and stainless steel appliances.”

The living area features surround sound and access to a private backyard. There is also a home theater, a private balcony, and a cozy fireplace.

“Upstairs a lavish primary retreat is fit with vaulted ceilings, a private balcony, fireplace, walk-in closet, and master bathroom with dual vanity, water closet, soaking tub, and rain shower. Three additional upstairs bedrooms feature en-suite baths, and large loft complete the upstairs.

“Entertain year-round with privacy hedging, a pool & spa, covered patio with TV, built-in barbecue, fire pit and a grassy lawn. Additional amenities include the Control4 system, linear air vents, 3-car finished garage, indoor/outdoor surround sound, and an outdoor kitchen, seating area and water feature,” the listing adds.

Gotti previously owned a five-bedroom, five-bathroom home in a cul-de-sac in Sherman Oaks, CA. He sold it for $1,849,000 in 2021.

Gotti had purchased the house in 2016 for $1,425,000, and then put it up for lease in 2019 for $12,500 a month.

The secluded home sat on a large lot back from the street, with little curb exposure. It was also equipped with state-of-the-art security cameras and an alarm system.