The world of hip-hop and R&B is full of sensational stories, and the latest episode of Celebrity Crime Files on TV One looks into the life of Irv Gotti, the founder of Murder Inc. Records. The episode airs on Wednesday, September 4, 2024, at 10:00 PM, and details the intense investigation, legal battle, and ultimate acquittal of Irv Gotti, shedding light on the broad legal implications in the hip-hop industry.
Irv Gotti, a prominent figure in the music industry, has left an indelible mark on the hip-hop and R&B landscape. His journey began in 1996 when he started working with JAY-Z, producing the track “Can I Live” on JAY-Z’s debut album, Reasonable Doubt. Gotti’s influence extended beyond this, as he played a pivotal role in DMX’s signing to Def Jam and contributed to the production of DMX’s first two albums, released in 1998.
The foundation of Murder Inc. Records, with Ja Rule as the label’s flagship artist and vice president, marked a significant turning point in Gotti’s career. The label achieved remarkable success, with Ja Rule and Ashanti at the forefront. They charted multiple Billboard number-one songs and sold over 30 million records worldwide, generating more than $500 million in revenue.
However, in 2003, federal agents raided Murder Inc.’s offices, and Gotti found himself at the center of a storm. The record label was accused of being a money-laundering front for Kenneth “Supreme” McGriff, a notorious figure from the Supreme Team based in Queens. This initiated a three-year legal battle, which ultimately concluded with Gotti being acquitted by a federal jury.
The episode also explores Gotti’s resilience in dealing with the ever-changing music industry, public controversies, and personal challenges.
Celebrity Crime Files: Murder Inc. airs on Wednesday, September 4, 2024, at 10:00 PM on TV One.
