Remembering Earl “DMX” Simmons
On April 2nd, 2021, rapper DMX was rushed to White Plains Hospital in New York following a heart attack, possibly resulting from a drug overdose. Seven days later, on April 9th, 2021, DMX was pronounced dead.
DMX, real name Earl Simmons, was one of the most established rappers of our generation. He gave us hits like “X Gon’ Give It To Ya,” “Ruff Ryders’ Anthem,” and “Where the Hood At.” DMX personified what the genre of rap represented - the grittiness, the struggle, the rebellion.
In today’s modern era of bling rap, of iced out jewelry, million dollar cars, multi-million dollar mansions, designer clothes, etc., DMX served as a reminder of what rap music is at its core.
In 1998 DMX released his debut studio album, It’s Dark and Hell is Hot, which featured hit song “Ruff Ryders’ Anthem." The album would debut at no. 1 on the Billboard Hot 200. He followed it up with a second 1998 album, Flesh of my Flesh, Blood of my Blood, an album that would go on to achieve 3x platinum status.
His third album, …And Then There Was X, would be his most commercially successful project, featuring hits like “Party Up (Up in Here),” and “What These Bitches Want.” The album would receive a Grammy nomination for Best Rap Album. Additionally, “Party Up” would receive a nomination for Best Solo Rap Performance. The album would eventually achieve 5x platinum status.
You’ve likely seen clips online of DMX performing in front of what seems to be the entire country. The Woodstock 99 performance was one of the more iconic videos in the rap landscape, coming at the height of his popularity.
In addition to his musical success, DMX would make appearances on television as well as the big screen. He had guest appearances on “The Chris Rock Show,” “Moesha,” “Chappelle’s Show,” and “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” DMX starred alongside fellow rapper Nas in 1998 film “Romeo Must Die.”
DMX family released a statement announcing the news of his death:
“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. 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…”
DMX’s life was turbulent. From a troubling childhood to worldwide rap stardom, he experienced the highest of highs and the lowest of lows. Nonetheless, his legacy will live on within hip hop folklore.
Rest in paradise, Earl Simmons.
