09 Apr Legendary Rapper DMX Dies at 50
Rapper DMX, a staple to the hip-hop industry, died at 50. His family released a statement confirming the news.
The Ruff Ryders affiliate passed away on Friday, due to a heart attack caused by a drug overdose.
DMX’s Hospitalization
On April 2, the rapper, born Earl Simmons, was immediately hospitalized at the White Plains Hospital in New York and in critical condition.
According to the artist’s attorney Murray Richman, DMX was “quite ill” and was on life support.
A rumor that the rapper had died was trending while the rapper was still on life support. However, Richman confirmed the artist was “still alive” hours before his death.
The Statement
The statement released confirmed DMX died with his family by his side.
“Earl was a warrior who fought till the very end,” his family said in the statement. “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.”
The family acknowledged everyone’s support and plan on sharing information about the rapper’s memorial service “once details are finalized.”
“Please respect our privacy as we grieve the loss of our brother, father, uncle and the man the world knew as DMX,” the statement concluded.
Celebrities React
Many artists such as Eminem and Missy Elliott sent prayers and wishes for the artist while he was hospitalized, now more celebrities have expressed their condolences for DMX and his family.
Former Ruff Ryders rapper and labelmate Eve paid tribute to the late rapper on an Instagram post.
“I know that you are in the place of peace you deserve. I will be forever grateful to have known you,” she wrote. “You were one of the most special people I have ever met. Full of humor, talent, wisdom and love, and most of all loyalty.”
Rapper Busta Rhymes shared a video with the rapper on Instagram, hugging and embracing each other.
“I hate this but I’m at peace with it because you are finally at peace King,” the rapper said. “I love you eternally, X.”
Missy Elliott also shared her condolences on Twitter.
“Even though you had battles, you touched so many through your music, and when you would pray, so many people felt that,” she tweeted. “This is heavy for the hip-hop family, but your legacy lives on & your spirit.”
DMX’s Success & “Ruff Ryders’ Anthem”
DMX rose to success with chart-topping songs such as “Party Up (Up in Here)” and “X Gon’ Give it To Ya.” The late rapper began his career in 1998 with his debut album “It’s Dark and Hell Is Hot.”
The artist, known for his gritty, raw delivery, has been deemed one of the few legendary hip-hop artists in the 2000s. He is also known for his holiday rendition of “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” after it became a viral phenomenon.
DMX appeared alongside rapper Snoop Dogg in the Verzuz competition in July 2020, battling it out with well-known songs from his catalog.
As many fans pay homage to him and his artistry following the news of his death, DMX’s song “Ruff Ryders’ Anthem” reportedly reached #1 on U.S. iTunes.
What are your thoughts on the legendary rapper passing? Drop a comment below and let us know.
Be sure to check out our latest article on Andy Cohen hosting the ‘KUWTK’ finale reunion.
No Comments