News : DMX PASSES AWAY AT 50

Earl Simmons finally went home.

Also known as DMX, the legendary rapper passed away at the age of 50 after suffering a heart attack in his home in White Plains, N.Y. that left him in a coma and on life support throughout the week.

“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,” a statement from the Simmons’ family reads. “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.”

Known for his gruff delivery and street sensibilities, DMX was credited with bringing his longtime label Def Jam Records back into prominence — as well as sharply carving a massive crater into the then-fabled “shiny suit” era of rap — with his 1998 debut album It’s Dark And Hell Is Hot, which landed atop the Billboard 200. DMX would become the first musician in history whose first five albums reached No. 1 on that chart (as well as the first artist in history to have two albums debut atop the charts in the same year, with Flesh Of My Flesh, Blood Of My Blood).

DMX also flexed his acting chops as well, appearing in films such as Belly, Never Die Alone, and Romeo Must Die.

One of his last public appearances was his highly entertaining VERZUZ with Snoop Dogg in July 2020, where the two went through classic introductions, classic album cuts, classic collaborations, classic street cuts, and more. The two even played hypeman to each other’s performances as well.

Simmons leaves behind fifteen children.