Irv Gotti passed away earlier this week at the age of 54. While most remember him as the head of the Murder Inc. record label and their massive hits, Gotti got his start as a producer, talent scout, and an A&R before he talked Russell Simmons and Def Jam into giving him his own label.

Irv Gotti's signature production style was evident on hit songs including "I'm Real," "Always on Time" and "Foolish."

Murder Inc. Records founder Irv Gotti has died at 54. He helped launch careers for talent such as Ashanti, DMX and Ja Rule.