Irv Gotti, the music producer who created hits for Ja Rule, Ashanti, DMX and Jennifer Lopez, has died at the age of 54. Best known as the founder of the record label Murder Inc., his signature style of blending hip-hop beats with smooth R&B melodies shaped the sound of the charts in the late 90s and early 2000s.

Irv Gotti, a respected music producer, entrepreneur, and record executive, has died at the age of 54. Although his cause of death has yet to be revealed, the music mogul reportedly suffered through multiple strokes in recent years while dealing with diabetes-related issues.

Tributes are pouring in for legendary hip-hop producer and Murder Inc Records founder Irv Gotti, who has passed away aged 54.