Ja Rule is mourning the loss of music legend Irv Gotti … who launched the rapper’s career in the ’90s and elevated him in the early ’00s.

Following word of the Murder Inc. cofounder’s death, Ja Rule posted to Instagram a black-and-white tribute to Gotti … along with a short but poignant message for his late mentor.

Check it out … Ja Rule uploaded a profile shot of Gotti to his feed and shared a pic of himself up close with the mega producer.

As you know, Gotti and his brother, Chris, who also built Murder Inc., produced some of Ja Rule’s biggest hits … including “Between Me and You,” “Holla Holla,” and “Put It on Me,” among others.

Gotti famously worked with other hip hop greats throughout his career, including Jay-Z, DMX, Ashanti, Aaliyah, Mary J. Blige, and Eve.

The hit maker passed away Wednesday in New York City, where he was surrounded by family and friends. A cause of death has not been shared at this time.

He did face a number of health issues in recent years … including a stroke in 2024, which left him using a cane for walking support.

His children, Angie, Sonny, and JJ, have also paid tribute to the hip hop great, praising him as “a true visionary” who helped transform the industry for artists and fans.

They wrote … “His passion for music and dedication to his craft inspired many, and his contributions will continue to influence future generations.”

Gotti was 54.

Marcus Jordan is breaking his silence days after he was busted for DUI … saying he appreciates everyone who reached out following the arrest — but for now, he’s shifting his focus elsewhere.

The son of NBA legend Michael Jordan posted to his Instagram story Thursday morning … saying his priority is his store, The Trophy Room, and “won’t be making any comments on recent media stories and my personal life.”

“I sincerely appreciate your concerns & thank you for your kind understanding,” he added.

As we previously reported, the 34-year-old was arrested in Florida early Tuesday … after cops discovered his car stuck on train tracks. He tried to get officers to help him move the whip … but they were more concerned about the signs of intoxication he was showing.

At one point during the interaction … he name-dropped his famous father in hopes of getting out of trouble — to no avail.

After a series of tests, they placed him in cuffs and threw him in the back of a squad car — which he initially resisted. After a search of his person … they pulled out a small baggie of white powder — which later tested positive for cocaine.

Rihanna isn’t letting A$AP Rocky‘s ongoing trial get in the way of her plans … the singer showed up at Nobu in L.A. Wednesday night in an oversized snake print coat!

She rocked the leather coat while celebrating her cousin’s birthday — and photogs were there as she left the building with Rocky, bundling into their vehicle and taking off before the rapper’s assault trial resumes this morning.

Oversized coats are in for Riri this season … she sported a black leather one while dining at the swanky L.A. restaurant Verse with her hubby last week after one of his court appearances.

The “Diamonds” hitmaker has been spotted around the the L.A. County Superior Courthouse downtown a handful of times since Rocky’s trial began in late January … supporting him after he pleaded not guilty, rejecting a plea deal. He’s charged with 2 felony counts of assault with a semiautomatic firearm … and now faces up to 24 years in prison if convicted.

Last week she sat in the courtroom with Rocky’s mother and sister. Sources with direct knowledge tell TMZ … Rihanna is planning to appear in court today “to support her man” as A$AP’s trial resumes. We’re told a few cops will take the stand before the defense presents its case to the jury.