Irv Gotti to Be Laid to Rest in Private Funeral as Family Adjusts Plans
Hip-hop is still mourning the loss of legendary music mogul Irv Gotti, and his family has now confirmed that he will be laid to rest in a private ceremony in New York.
Initially, the Gotti family had planned a large public service at Greater Allen A.M.E. Cathedral in Queens on February 18. However, they have since decided to keep the funeral small and intimate, limited to close friends and family.
A statement posted on Irv’s Instagram read:
"Please be advised that the funeral services for Irving ‘Irv Gotti’ Lorenzo will not take place on Tuesday, February 18. Instead, there will be a private service for family and close friends on Wednesday. Following the private service, a public procession will occur. Further details regarding the procession will be provided soon."
Irv Gotti’s passing was confirmed on February 5, just days after reports surfaced that he had suffered a second stroke. He had previously battled health issues, with a minor stroke reported last year.
A Legacy That Shaped Hip-Hop
Irv Gotti, co-founder of Murder Inc., played a monumental role in shaping early 2000s hip-hop and R&B. Alongside his brother Chris, he launched the label in 1998, quickly establishing it as a powerhouse. Ja Rule became the face of the brand, with chart-topping albums like Rule 3:36 and Pain Is Love, featuring timeless hits such as "Holla Holla" and "Always on Time" with Ashanti.
Beyond his work with Murder Inc., Gotti was behind some of the biggest records in hip-hop history. He produced Fat Joe’s "What’s Luv?" featuring Ashanti and Ja Rule, as well as Jennifer Lopez and Ja’s "I’m Real (Murder Remix)." His production credits also include JAY-Z’s classic "Can I Live" and DMX’s "What’s My Name."
Legal Battles & Career Resilience
Despite his success, Gotti faced major legal challenges. In 2003, the Murder Inc. offices were raided by federal agents investigating alleged money laundering ties to notorious drug dealer Kenneth “Supreme” McGriff. Irv and Chris Gotti were charged in 2005, but they were later acquitted in court.
Even with these setbacks, Irv remained a respected figure in the music industry, often sharing stories of his journey and impact on hip-hop.
Unanswered Questions About His Death
As of now, the official cause of Irv Gotti’s death has not been released. Given his recent health struggles, many are speculating about the circumstances, but his family has requested privacy during this difficult time.
A public procession will follow the private funeral, allowing fans and industry peers to pay their respects. Further details on the event will be shared soon.
Irv Gotti’s contributions to music and culture will not be forgotten. His legacy lives on through the artists he helped shape and the timeless records he produced.