Hip-Hop Icon Irv Gotti Passes Away at 54—Ashanti Pays Tribute Despite Rocky History
The hip-hop community was hit with shocking news earlier this week—legendary producer and music mogul Irv Gotti has passed away at the age of 54. His impact on the industry was undeniable. As a major force at Def Jam, he was responsible for signing DMX, played a key role in getting Jay-Z on the label, and discovered Ja Rule and Ashanti. Later, he launched Murder Inc., the record label that turned Ja Rule and Ashanti into two of the biggest stars of the early 2000s.
Beyond running a label, Gotti was a talented producer who helped shape the sound of an era. But despite his success, his career took a downturn due to legal troubles and industry politics. He was indicted for allegedly laundering money for drug kingpin Supreme, a case that cast a shadow over his career. On top of that, the infamous beef between Murder Inc. and 50 Cent—along with Eminem’s involvement—led to the industry turning its back on Gotti and his artists.
Still, no one can deny the mark he left on hip-hop. His influence, both as an executive and a producer, helped define an entire generation of music.
One of the most surprising moments following his passing was Ashanti’s heartfelt tribute. Given their complicated history—filled with personal drama and public fallout—many didn’t expect her to say much. For years, Irv had been vocal about his resentment toward Ashanti, stemming from his feelings for her and her later relationship with Nelly. He also believed she abandoned him during his legal troubles. Their relationship was strained for years, with Irv often painting her in a negative light.
But despite everything, Ashanti put the past aside and honored his legacy with a touching message:
“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. 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. I have always prayed for you to find peace. Sending love and prayers to the entire family. Rest well. Rest in peace, Irv.”
In the end, love and respect prevailed. No matter what happened between them, Ashanti recognized the legacy Irv Gotti left behind—a legacy that will live on in hip-hop history.
Ashanti’s Classy Tribute to Irv Gotti
I have to give it to Ashanti—she handled this with pure class. Given her history with Irv Gotti, I can only imagine how difficult this must be for her. But one thing about Ashanti? She’s always acknowledged the role he played in her career, and she remains grateful.
Rest in peace to Irv Gotti. Sending love, prayers, and condolences to his family and loved ones.
Chloe Bailey Tells Burna Boy She Loves Him—But Should She?
Alright, let’s lighten things up a bit—Chloe Bailey and Burna Boy! These two were spotted together again, and honestly? They’re growing on me. They really seem into each other, but I can’t help but wonder… how serious is Burna Boy? Y’all know his track record!
But Chloe? Oh, sis is all in. “Love you! Love you!”—she said it with her whole chest! And listen, I want to be happy for her, but I’m nervous. Her heart… her poor heart. I just hope she doesn’t end up hurt again.
One thing I do want, though? A song! Chloe, lock in that collab with Burna Boy! Your voice, his Afrobeat magic—y’all could create something amazing. Please make it happen!
LiAngelo Ball Leaves His Baby Mama for a Side Chick?!
Whew, let’s get into this mess! LiAngelo “Gelo” Ball just did his baby mama, Miss Nikki, dirty. He cheated on her, walked out on their family, and allegedly got another woman pregnant—all while Miss Nikki just had his baby.
She took to Instagram to clear the air:
*”I see everyone sending me proof of Gelo cheating. I want to set the record straight—I’m just as shocked as y’all. We spent three and a half years together, and last week, he walked out on me and his kids to tell me he got someone else pregnant—allegedly—and is now starting a new life with her.
We were just happy, planning family photos. This is the ultimate betrayal.”*
If “not even” was a situation… her baby isn’t even two months old yet! And now she has to deal with this while navigating postpartum.
She also had a few words for the side chick:
“The same way you get them is how you lose them. Thinking you’re winning by getting pregnant by a man who has a newborn is crazy work.”
And get this—Gelo broke the news via text! TEXT?! The disrespect is wild.
Meanwhile, his alleged new girl, Rashida Nicole, wasted no time throwing shade on the ’Gram, basically flaunting her new situation. The drama just keeps unfolding!
She didn’t hold back when she clapped back at Nikki’s comments:
“I got receipts. You better chill—this is not what you want. I wasn’t even gonna say anything, but I’m tired of people playing victim for the internet.
First of all, people move on. Life changes. Just because y’all don’t see it online doesn’t mean it’s not happening. People got real lives outside of this social media mess.
Second, I’m so sick of the double standards. Every time, the woman gets blamed. Like, y’all love to shame women, but don’t even know the full story. Folks stay playing the victim to get sympathy.
And let’s be real—half the time, that lady don’t even have her kids. So, there’s no ‘abandonment’ happening over here.
Oh, and another thing? That lady and her family? Straight-up racist. I don’t care what anybody says—she stays saying the N-word, and last time I checked, she ain’t Black. So, let’s not.
Stop talking about me. Stop throwing shade. Just leave me alone. You claim you’re happy? You wanted to meet me? Now what?”
Miss Nikki didn’t waste a second before popping off under Gossip of the City’s post:
“Victim? I AM the victim. You broke up a home, and you’re bragging about it? Are you okay? You knew he was in a whole relationship—the whole world knew! You think you won? He’s gonna do you the same way.”
And honestly… she’s not wrong. Jello really did just up and leave his family to start fresh with someone new. What makes Rashida think she won’t be next? The way he left Nikki is the same way he could leave her. But Rashida clearly doesn’t care—she even posted a pic of her and Jello out at dinner like it’s cute.
Jello, of course, followed up with his own post of them together, like they’re trying to prove a point. But let’s be real—this is not a flex.
And look, I’m not even defending Nikki. If what Rashida said about her being racist is true, then I really don’t feel bad for her. But as a woman who just had a baby and thought she was building a future with this man, it makes sense why she’s hurt.
Jello, on the other hand, is feeling himself a little too much. And let’s be honest—he’s been lying. I’d bet good money that he and Rashida were messing around for a while now. Nikki is just now catching up, but Rashida was always in the mix. And now that Jello is getting attention, he probably thinks Rashida is an upgrade.
Who knows? Either way, the whole situation is messy.
Jello is dead wrong for this.
But anyway—what do y’all think? Drop your thoughts in the comments! And don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!