Chris Gotti on Angie Martinez: Honoring Irv Gotti and dismantling the music industry lie [VIDEO]
Chris Gotti Honors Irv Gotti, Preaches Independence on “The Angie Martinez Show“
Chris Gotti, co-founder of the iconic Murder Inc. Records, made a rare but powerful appearance on Angie Martinez’s show on Power 105.1 to speak on legacy, leadership, and the future of music. The interview, now making waves on YouTube, showcases Gotti’s unapologetic perspective on independence in the music business and his unwavering respect for his brother and longtime partner, Irv Gotti.
It’s been five months since Irv’s passing and Chris Gotti spoke to Angie Martinez on how he and the family are adjusting.
“Irv was always the architect:” Chris Gotti Salutes His Brother
In a heartfelt moment, Chris took time to publicly honor Irv Gotti, the mastermind behind Murder Inc.’s historic run. “Irv was always the architect,” Chris told Angie Martinez. “What he did with Ja [Rule], Ashanti, DMX, Jay-Z — it was like he saw the chessboard ten moves ahead.”
Chris emphasized that while Irv was the creative visionary, his role was more rooted in structure, strategy, and operations. “We complemented each other. Irv knew music, and I knew how to make the business move.”
The praise wasn’t just sentimental. Chris pointed out that Irv’s instincts weren’t just rare — they were transformative. “He changed the game with Ja Rule’s melodic sound. He gave artists a lane that didn’t exist before. And people forget: Irv helped shape Jay-Z and DMX before they blew.”
The Murder Inc. Era: A Blueprint for Today’s Artists
Murder Inc. didn’t just dominate charts in the early 2000s — they helped shape the very template of success in the music industry. Chris reflected on how their model remains relevant today.
“We were doing 360 deals before they had a name for it. Merch, touring, TV — we were building brands before it was fashionable,” he said. “People talk about independence now like it’s a trend. But that’s how we operated from day one.”
He noted how their empire didn’t just revolve around record sales. “I was the first one in those rooms talking about branding, film, and tech. They looked at me like I was crazy.”
“You Own It, You Control It:” Chris Gotti on the Power of Independence
Much of the conversation centered on the importance of ownership and staying independent in today’s landscape. “The majors will sell you the dream, but independence gives you power,” Chris declared.
He explained that being independent doesn’t mean going it alone. “It’s about building systems and partnerships that don’t steal your equity. Build your own audience, own your masters, and stop thinking short-term.”
Chris also touched on the evolution of distribution. “Back then, if you didn’t get into the stores, you were finished. Now, you have platforms. If you’re dope and strategic, you don’t need a label.”
Honoring the Past While Building the Future
While Chris spent much of the interview discussing vision and growth, he remained rooted in gratitude for the legacy he helped build with Irv and Murder Inc.
“We had our ups and downs, we faced federal cases, we got blackballed — but we never folded. That’s what legacy is,” he said.
When Angie asked what keeps him going, Chris didn’t hesitate: “I’m here for the culture. For the next generation of hustlers. If I don’t share what we learned, who will?”
Standing the Test of Time: The Murder Inc. Mentality
Chris spoke openly about the challenges Murder Inc. faced, from federal investigations to industry blackballing. “We had the Feds, the press, the labels all coming at us. But we never broke. That’s what legacy is — it’s resilience.”
He credited that resilience to their authenticity. “We didn’t pretend to be something we weren’t. We were from the streets. We were hustlers. But we were smart. And that scared people.”
When Angie asked what he’s most proud of, Chris replied, “That we didn’t just survive — we created a model. A blueprint. And it’s still relevant today.”
Industry Real Talk: “The Game is Rigged — Unless You Change the Rules”
Chris didn’t shy away from calling out the modern music industry’s flaws. “These labels ain’t changed. They still treat artists like disposable products. If you’re not careful, they’ll take everything — your money, your name, your future.”
He pointed out how new artists often don’t understand the contracts they sign. “You get excited about a $250K advance and don’t realize they’re taking 80% of your earnings for the next five years. That ain’t winning.”
He encouraged artists to invest in legal help and learn the basics of publishing and masters. “If you don’t own your name, your catalog, your merch — then what do you really own?”
The Future Is Now: What Chris Gotti Is Building Next
While the conversation was heavy on reflection, Chris also teased upcoming projects. “I’m building platforms now. Real platforms — tech, education, content. The kind that help creators own their work from the ground up.”
He hinted at a new digital education series focused on music business literacy. “I’m tired of watching artists get played. We’re gonna teach them how to win.”
Chris also mentioned that he’s working with indie artists to build their systems without middlemen. “You want to make it and keep it? That’s what we’re showing people how to do.”
Final Thoughts: A Masterclass in Music and Mindset
Chris Gotti’s appearance on Angie Martinez’s show wasn’t just a nostalgic trip down memory lane — it was a masterclass for aspiring entrepreneurs, artists, and execs. His reflections on legacy, independence, and honoring Irv Gotti struck a powerful chord.
Chris closed the interview with a message to artists who are chasing viral fame but ignoring sustainability. “Legacy ain’t clout. It’s how many people you put on. It’s how many lives you change. That’s what I’m focused on.”
He praised Irv again, calling him “one of the greatest ever to touch this game.” And reminded listeners: “If you’re waiting for permission to build your dream — stop. Do it now. Do it smart. Do it for you.”
In a world flooded with surface-level interviews, this one cut deep. Chris reminded us that success isn’t just about fame — it’s about ownership, impact, and integrity.