The Hip Hop community gathered in New York City on Wednesday to honor the life and legacy of Irv Gotti, as friends, family, and industry heavyweights paid their final respects to the legendary music mogul.
Sources inside the service told TMZ Hip Hop that the farewell brought together some of the biggest names in the game. Murder Inc. artists Ja Rule, Ashanti, Lloyd, Charli Baltimore, and Vita stood in solidarity, joined by Jay-Z, Fat Joe, Steve Stoute, Hype Williams, Benny Boom, Angie Martinez, the Ruff Ryders, and more—all coming to celebrate the life of a man who helped shape the sound of an era.
Ja Rule, a longtime friend and collaborator, delivered a heartfelt eulogy, visibly emotional as he reflected on their journey together. Witnesses say the room was overcome with emotion, with even Jay-Z looking on solemnly as those in attendance shared their memories of Irv.
The service took place at the Greater Allen A.M.E. Cathedral of New York, and after the ceremony, Irv’s loved ones honored him with one final ride through his Queens neighborhood. The procession stopped at the park where he first honed his DJ skills and at his childhood home, bringing his story full circle.
Irv Gotti, a visionary in the music industry, passed away on February 5 at the age of 54 after battling multiple strokes in recent years. His influence on hip-hop remains undeniable, and the outpouring of love at his memorial was a testament to the mark he left on the culture.