Ashanti Addresses Producer Irv Gotti's Death: 'I Can't Believe Things Ended Like This'

Mar. 15, 2025

Ashanti; Irv Gotti.Photo:Paul Morigi/Getty; Amy Sussman/Gett

Paul Morigi/Getty; Amy Sussman/Gett

Ashantiis paying tribute to the lateIrv Gotti.

Inan Instagram postshared on Friday, Feb. 7, the “Foolish” singer paid her respects to the Murder Inc. Records cofounder whodied on Feb. 5 at 54 years old.

“I can’t believe things ended like this….and it makes me so sad…We weren’t on the best terms the past few years but as I’ve always said, through our ups and downs I will forever be grateful for everything that you’ve done for me,” Ashanti, 45, began her post, which featured album coversIrv Gotti Presents The INCand her self-titled album.

“We made history and that will remain infinite.. I’ve always respected your musical genius and ability to push me to be my best.. All the greatness and positive things that came, far outweigh the dark and negative times,” she continued.

Irv Gotti in Atlanta in October 2022.Paras Griffin/Getty

Paras Griffin/Getty

Gotti produced Ashanti’s chart-topping solo hits “Foolish,” “Rain on Me” and “Mesmerize” in the early 2000s. He won the best contemporary R&B album Grammy in 2003 for co-producing Ashanti’s self-titled album.

Around that time, Ashanti, whose full name is Ashanti Shequoiya Douglas, began taking up acting roles andstarted dating Nelly. Gotti claimed that their relationship ending was because of romantic involvement, which Ashanti has denied.

Never miss a story — sign up forPEOPLE’s free daily newsletterto stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer​​, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.“I had love for Irv,“she told PEOPLE in 2022. “We had our situation, but I think he blew it out of proportion.” Ashanti would eventually return to music in 2014 on her own terms.

“We don’t really speak or talk or anything like that,” he added. “It’s sad in a way. But in another, it’s like it’s all good.”

Ashanti and Irv Gotti in Los Angeles in March 2005.Kevin Winter/Getty

Kevin Winter/Getty

Gotti’s familyannounced his deathon Instagram, writing that the producer leaves “behind a legacy that will forever resonate in the hearts of those who knew him and the countless lives he touched.”

“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.”

Throughout his career, Gotti worked withDMX,Jay-Z,Ja Rule,Jennifer Lopez,Mariah Carey,Mary J. BligeandToni Braxton.

source: people.com