Jay Z, Ja Rule, Ashanti and more attend Irv Gotti’s funeral [VIDEO]

On Wednesday, February 19, the music world came together in New York City to say a final goodbye to one of its most influential figures, Irv Gotti. The legendary music mogul, known for his pivotal role in shaping hip-hop and R&B, passed away on February 5, 2025, at the age of 54 following complications from multiple strokes. Gotti’s funeral service was held at the Greater Allen A.M.E. Cathedral of New York, a venue fitting for a man whose contributions to the music industry are nothing short of monumental.

In attendance were some of the biggest names in music, past and present, who came to pay their respects to the visionary behind Murder Inc. Records. From his collaborators and artists to lifelong friends and colleagues, the ceremony was a powerful tribute to a man who built an empire in the world of hip-hop and beyond.

Jay-Z was in attendance at Irv Gotti’s funeral.

Irv was instrumental in Jay’s early career bringing Roc-A-Fella to Def Jam. pic.twitter.com/qalEyEjZhX

— XXL Magazine (@XXL) February 19, 2025

A Powerful Send-Off with Industry Legends

The funeral service was more than just a farewell. It was a celebration of Irv Gotti’s incredible journey in the music industry. His Murder Inc. artists, including Ja Rule, Ashanti, Lloyd, Charli Baltimore, and Vita, were all in attendance, showing solidarity and love for the man who helped launch their careers. Alongside them were other industry giants like Jay-Z, Fat Joe, Steve Stoute, Hype Williams, and Benny Boom.

Ja Rule, who had a deep and personal connection with Irv, delivered an emotional eulogy that had the entire room choked up. Their friendship and professional relationship went back years, and Ja’s tribute captured the essence of who Irv was—a mentor, a visionary, and a true friend. Hov (Jay-Z) was also present, showing his respect for the man who was instrumental in the rise of many stars in the early 2000s.

As the eulogy unfolded, tears flowed from both family members and the artists who worked closely with Irv. It wasn’t just about saying goodbye; it was about sharing stories, honoring his impact, and reflecting on how he helped shape the trajectory of their careers.

https://twitter.com/XXL/status/1892336404480315713

The Funeral Service: A Celebration of a Legend’s Life

The ceremony itself was a blend of somber reflection and joyous celebration of Irv Gotti’s life. The service included heartfelt tributes from friends, family, and colleagues, each speaking to the profound impact Irv had on them personally and professionally. It was clear that Irv’s presence was felt in every corner of the room, as his legacy touched so many.

At the heart of the service was the music, of course. Irv Gotti was not only a mogul and producer, but he was also a creator of timeless hits that defined an era in music. The tribute was fittingly filled with the sounds that made him famous: rap, R&B, and hip-hop anthems that resonated with generations. Friends and family took to the mic to recall the music mogul’s pivotal moments, from his early days as a DJ to his work with artists like Ja Rule and Ashanti, whose collaborations with Irv propelled them to superstardom.

Irv Gotti’s Impact on Hip-Hop: Building an Empire

Irv Gotti’s Murder Inc. Records was one of the most influential labels in hip-hop’s golden age. As the CEO and visionary behind the label, Irv helped create chart-topping hits and launched the careers of several major artists. Murder Inc. was home to stars like Ja Rule, Ashanti, and Lloyd, whose hits dominated the airwaves in the early 2000s.

Irv’s production style was unique—blending gritty street narratives with melodic hooks and infectious beats. His ability to craft songs that resonated with the masses made him a household name. One of his biggest achievements was the rise of Ja Rule, whose collaborations with Irv on tracks like “Always On Time” and “Livin’ It Up” became massive hits. Similarly, Ashanti’s debut album, which Irv produced, became a landmark in R&B, launching her to global fame.

Irv’s influence wasn’t limited to just his artists. His work with other notable figures in the industry, including Fat Joe and Jay-Z, solidified his place as one of the greats in music production. He was known for his ability to spot talent and nurture it, ensuring that those who worked with him reached their full potential.

Irv Gotti’s Personal Journey: From DJ to Mogul

Before becoming a household name in the music industry, Irv Gotti started as a DJ in Queens, New York, where he honed his craft. As a young man, he immersed himself in the world of hip-hop, drawn to its energy and raw creativity. It was in Queens that Irv developed his passion for music and his drive to succeed.

From DJing local parties to producing music for other artists, Irv’s journey to the top was one of hustle and perseverance. His early experiences in Queens shaped the way he approached music, and his connection to the neighborhood remained strong throughout his life. In fact, during the funeral procession, Irv’s family and friends took one last journey through the very streets where it all began. The procession made stops at the park where Irv first honed his DJ skills, as well as his childhood home.

This personal connection to Queens was central to Irv’s identity, and he often spoke about how his upbringing influenced his music. His journey from humble beginnings to global success was a testament to his resilience and vision.

A Final Tribute: Irv’s Legacy Lives On

Irv Gotti’s death has left a void in the music industry, but his legacy continues through the artists he helped cultivate and the music he produced. His impact on hip-hop and R&B cannot be overstated, and his influence will live on in the songs that remain a part of the fabric of popular music today.

The star-studded funeral was a reminder of the incredible life Irv led and the countless lives he touched along the way. From his iconic production work to his role as a mentor and friend, Irv’s contributions to the music world will never be forgotten. His family, friends, and colleagues will continue to carry his memory forward, ensuring that his legacy remains an integral part of music history.

In the end, the funeral was not just about loss, but about celebrating a man who left an indelible mark on the industry. Irv Gotti’s influence will continue to resonate for years to come, and his work will forever be a blueprint for future generations of music producers and moguls.

A Legacy Beyond Music: Irv Gotti’s Cultural Influence

While Irv Gotti’s name will always be synonymous with Murder Inc. and its roster of successful artists, his influence went beyond just the music. Irv helped shape hip-hop culture, bringing it to the mainstream with his catchy hooks and smooth production. His work in the early 2000s played a significant role in bringing hip-hop and R&B to the forefront of pop culture.

Through his vision, Irv not only created music but helped cultivate a movement that impacted fashion, language, and style. The collaborations he orchestrated set trends that were emulated by other artists for years to come. He was also instrumental in bridging the gap between mainstream and street music, bringing a unique blend of commercial appeal and authentic hip-hop sound that resonated with listeners worldwide.

His cultural influence extended beyond the music studio as well. Irv was an entrepreneur who ventured into film and television, exploring different ways to expand his brand and share his vision with the world. His work in television and film proved that his creativity knew no bounds, and his ability to adapt to changing times was a hallmark of his legacy.

In the years to come, Irv Gotti will undoubtedly remain an inspiration for aspiring producers, artists, and moguls alike. His journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and vision, and his name will live on in the hearts of those who knew him, as well as in the music that will continue to inspire generations to come.

Remembering Irv Gotti’s Impact on Hip-Hop and Beyond

Irv Gotti’s passing marks the end of an era in hip-hop, but his legacy will continue to influence the industry for years to come. From his early days in Queens to his rise as a mogul and producer, Irv’s impact on music is undeniable. His funeral was a fitting tribute to a man who not only shaped the sound of hip-hop but also helped define the culture itself.

The presence of so many industry legends at the service speaks volumes about Irv’s influence and the respect he commanded within the music world. His story is one of hustle, passion, and unwavering dedication to his craft. Though he may no longer be with us, Irv Gotti’s legacy will live on in the music he created, the artists he mentored, and the culture he helped shape.

Through the outpouring of love and respect at his funeral, it’s clear that Irv’s impact was far-reaching, and his contributions to hip-hop and the music industry will never be forgotten. Irv Gotti’s life and work are a testament to the power of music to bring people together, tell stories, and leave a lasting legacy.

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