Irv Gotti: “Jay-Z Didn’t Need Nobody, Dame Dash Was Along For The Ride”

In a recent episode of the popular podcast Drink Champs, Irv Gotti, the founder of Murder Inc., shared his perspective on the triumph of Roc-A-Fella during its prime years. Gotti emphasized that the undeniable driving force behind the label’s success was none other than Jay-Z himself, while he perceived Dame Dash’s involvement as more of a supporting role.

During his engaging conversation with N.O.R.E. on the podcast, Gotti was asked about the rumors surrounding Dame Dash’s alleged removal from Jay-Z’s The Book of HOV library exhibit. Gotti responded candidly, expressing uncertainty about the matter and suggesting that there might be some tension between Jay-Z and Dame Dash.

The topic then shifted to Dame Dash’s recent statements about Jay-Z’s feelings towards him dating Aaliyah. Gotti expressed his surprise at the dissolution of Roc-A-Fella, given the strong “chemistry” that existed between Jay-Z, Dame, and Kareem “Biggs” Burke.

Gotti elaborated on his perspective, asserting that Jay-Z was the driving force behind Roc-A-Fella’s success. He acknowledged Dame Dash’s foundational role in starting the label alongside Jay-Z and Biggs but emphasized that when it came to the creative process of producing records, Jay-Z was the central figure.

“Jay didn’t need nobody. Dame started Roc-A-Fella with Jay and Biggs, so he should get credited. But I’m saying the making of the records — I don’t know what you want me to say. Jay didn’t need nobody. Jay was picking the beats, Jay was rapping over the beats, Jay was making things — it was all Hov! Dame was along for the ride. It was a great ride.