On Wednesday (Feb. 5), The Root reported that Murder Inc. founder Irv Gotti passed away at the age of 54. Born Irving Lorenzo, the music mogul has produced memorable tracks for a slew of stars including Ja Rule, Ashanti, Jay-Z and DMX. However, he also has worked on songs that fans may not realize. Here’s a list of songs produced by Irv Gotti that could have flown under the radar for music lovers.
Foxy Brown, “Hot Spot”
“Hot Spot” came from Foxy Brown’s 1999’s “Chyna Doll’ album. The song was produced by Irv Gotti and co-written by Jay-Z, while the music video was directed by Joseph Kahn.
Kanye West, “Violent Crimes”
This song was featured on Kanye West’s eighth studio album “Ye.” “Violent Crimes” has vocals from 070 Shake and Ty Dolla Sign, as well as a voicemail from Nicki Minaj.
Shyne ft. Ashanti, “Jimmy Choo”
Featuring an interesting arrangement of synth strings and Ashanti’s smooth vocals, “Jimmy Choo” is from Shyne’s 2004 “Godfather Buried Alive” album.
Ruben Studdard ft. Fat Joe, “What is Sexy”
Ruben Studdard’s 2003 single “What is Sexy,” was a sleeper track for the “American Idol” alum. Fat Joe is also featured on the song.
Ja Rule ft. Bobby Brown, “Thug Lovin”
Irv Gotti fingerprints are all over “Thug Lovin,” which peaked at No. 42 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Toni Braxton, “Me & My Boyfriend”
Toni Braxton sampled Makaveli’s “Me and My Girlfriend” for this 2002 hit.
Eve ft. Alicia Keys, “Gangsta Lovin’”
2002’s “Gangsta Lovin” was the lead single from Eve’s third studio album, “Eve-Olution.” The song features Alicia Keys and became Eve’s second consecutive number-two hit on the Billboard Hot 100.
Big Pun, “How We Roll”
“How We Roll” was the only single by the late emcee Big Pun from his 2001 posthumous compilation album “Endangered Species.” It features production by Irv Gotti as well as Ashanti performing the chorus.
Mary J. Blige, “Rainy Dayz”
Ja Rule wrote this 2002 hit for Mary J. Blige Ja Rule in response to the September 11 attacks, which featured Irv Gotti production.
Canibus, “Lost @ “C”
“Lost at C” was released from “2000 B.C.”, the 2000 album from rapper Canibus. It wasn’t a single from the project, but Irv still worked his magic on the track.
DMX, “What’s My Name?”
“What’s My Name?” was the first single released from DMX’s third album “…And Then There Was X.” Released in 1999, the song was produced by Self and co-produced by Irv Gotti.
Jay-Z, “Can I Live”
This 1996 song is from Jay-Z’s debut album “Reasonable Doubt.” Irv Gotti was one of many esteemed producers who worked on the project.
Ol’ Dirty Bastard, “Rollin’ Wit You”
“Rollin’ Wit You” appeared on the late Ol’ Dirty Bastard’s second album “N***a Please” which was released in 1999. While “Got Your Money” was the record’s big hit, “Rollin’ Wit You” was another unforgettable track.
Memphis Bleek, “Infatuated”
Demi-Doc & Irv Gotti both produced this 2005 Memphis Bleek love song. It appeared on Bleek’s album “534″ released that same year.
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