Record executive and music producer Irving “Irv Gotti” Lorenzo has died at 54.

“Def Jam Recordings and the extended Def Jam family of artists, executives and employees, are deeply saddened at the loss of Irv Gotti,” Def Jam said in the statement posted on social media.

“His contributions at Def Jam, as both an A&R (artists and repertoire) executive and in partnership with Murder. Inc., helped pave the way for the next generation of artists and producers, a force that reshaped the soundscape of hip hop and R&B,” the statement read. “His creative genius and unwavering dedication to the culture birthed countless hits, defining an era of music that continues to resonate with fans worldwide.”

A cause of death hasn’t been reported. The Hollywood Reporter confirmed his passing on Wednesday after rumors he had suffered another stroke and brain bleed.

The Grammy-winning producer, who helped launch music careers for Ashanti, DMX and Ja Rule, is credited with the rise of several chart-topping R&B and hip-hop artists in the ‘90s and 2000s.

Mark Heim is a reporter for The Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @Mark_Heim. He can be heard on “The Opening Kickoff” on WNSP-FM 105.5 FM in Mobile or on the free Sound of Mobile App from 6 to 9 a.m. daily.