DMX, Legendary Late 90s Rapper Dead at 50

Legendary late ’90s rapper and New York native Earl Simmons, known as DMX, has died. He topped the charts with his distinctive raspy voice and burst onto the scene with his 1998 album, ‘It’s Dark, and Hell Is Hot,’ which became the tabloids’ focus for many years.

DMX was hospitalized after suffering a heart attack following a drug overdose on April 2. The 50-year-old rapper was in a vegetative state, according to his manager. He was put on life support in hopes that he would quickly recover but sadly died today at White Plains Hospital. His family released a statement.

“We are deeply saddened to announce today that our loved one, DMX, birth name of Earl Simmons, passed away at 50-years-old at White Plains Hospital with his family by his side after being placed on life support for the past few days,” his family released in a statement. “Earl was a warrior who fought till the very end. He loved his family with all of his heart and we cherish the times we spent with him. Earl’s music inspired countless fans across the world and his iconic legacy will live on forever. We appreciate all of the love and support during this incredibly difficult time. Please respect our privacy as we grieve the loss of our brother, father, uncle and the man the world knew as DMX. We will share information about his memorial service once details are finalized.”

With larger than life anthems like ‘Ruff Ryders’ Anthem,’ ‘Party Up,’ ‘X Gon’ Give It To Ya,’ ‘What the B*tches Want,’ and more, the track that put DMX on the map was his collaboration with LL Cool J on “4,3,2,1” feat. Method Man, Redman, and Canibus.

In a world of polished rappers, DMX was one of the most influential rappers of our time, serving us raw and gritty music with a soul-searching feel. He delivered a flow we could never forget. Even Congress Member of New York’s 16th District, which includes DMX’s hometown of Mount Vernon, tweeted his condolences.

Many fans shared pictures of once meeting the late rapper. @Sheeeluhhh on Twitter shared a gut-wrenching story as to why DMX is the reason she forgave her father after he passed for his years of addiction. Grab the tissue box before you check the Twitter thread yourself, because this will definitely be a tear-jerker.

On Friday, producer Swizz Beatz, longtime friend and collaborator who produced DMX’s hits “Party Up,” “Ruff Ryders’ Anthem,” and many of his other hits, shared a video on Instagram.

“I’m truly beyond devasted! But I’m so happy my brother is no longer in pain. I watched him take everyone’s pain and make it his own,” said Beatz, “I send my love and support to his entire family. My brother, we will never let them forget your name and you will live forever F.A.M.E,” he continued.

Madison Square Garden has also paid tribute to DMX…

The whole world is mourning alongside New York tonight and propelling “Ruff Ryders’ Anthem” to No. 1 on the US iTunes charts.

REST IN PEACE DMX

DEC 18, 1970 – APRIL 9, 2021