Jay-Z Sits Front Row As Ja Rule Delivers Emotional Speech At Irv Gotti’s Funeral

BY Caroline Fisher 11.6K Views
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Nov 24, 2024; Landover, Maryland, USA; Recording artist Jay-Z walks on the field before the game between the Washington Commanders and the Dallas Cowboys at Northwest Stadium. Peter Casey / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
RIP Irv Gotti.

Earlier this month, Irv Gotti passed away at the age of 54. The Murder Inc. co-founder's cause of death has yet to be revealed. Reportedly, however, he suffered a stroke as well as a brain bleed ahead of his passing. His family issued a heartfelt statement about the untimely loss after the unfortunate news broke.

"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,” it read. "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's death has the hip-hop community in mourning, and earlier today, a private funeral service was held for his family and friends.

Irv Gotti's Funeral

Ja Rule took the stage to share some kind words about the late music executive, seemingly growing emotional as he spoke. "I just want to say, Irv, I love you," he said in part. "Everyone in this room loves you. You touched everybody in your own way in this room." Jay-Z could be seen sitting in the front row, clapping after the moving speech. The funeral took place following the announcement that plans for a public service had been canceled.

“Please be advised that the funeral services for Irving ‘Irv Gotti’ Lorenzo will not take place on Tuesday February 18th. 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. Thank you," a statement on Gotti's official Instagram page reads.

About The Author
Caroline Fisher is a News Writer at HotNewHipHop from Chicago, Illinois. She started at HNHH this year, and has since spent her time writing about all that is newsworthy in the world of hip-hop. With a drive for hunting down the hottest stories, she enjoys documenting new developments in culture and entertainment. She also has an appreciation for hip-hop and seeks to cover the most important trends and shifts. She has a Bachelor of Arts which she received at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Having graduated in 2022, she majored in English with a concentration in Media, Rhetoric and Cultural Studies. Specializing all things music, pop culture and entertainment, some of her favorite musical artists include Snoop Dogg, OutKast, and Nicki Minaj. When she’s not writing about music she’s also a fan of attending shows, watching the latest movies, staying up-to-date with current events, photography, and poetry.