Rapper DMX’s death has left the hip-hop community and fans at large in grief.

The rap legend was hospitalised after suffering a massive stroke reportedly from a drug overdose. He died on Friday, April 9th in New York.

“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,” the family said, adding that his music “inspired countless fans across the world.”

 

In the late ’90s, DMX stepped in to fill the yawning gap 2pac Shakur and Biggie’s exit left in the hardcore rap community. Known for his distinctive gruff voice and sharp barks of “What!”, DMX became a top dog in the game collaborating with artists such as JAY-Z, Ja Rule, and LL Cool J. The rapper went on to build a prolific multi-platinum career in the late 90s and early 2000s earning himself Grammy nominations.

 

DMX, aka Dark Man X was however troubled with a drug addiction for much of his career which he was very vocal about. He also had several run-ins with the law that put him behind bars.

 

“His message of triumph over struggle, his search for the light out of darkness, his pursuit of truth and grace brought us closer to our own humanity,” his record label, Def Jam Recordings, said in a statement describing him as “nothing less than a giant.”

Also read:
-“He’s Still Alive” DMX’s Manager Debunks Death Rumours As Family Faces Difficult Decision 
-DMX Vigil: Friends and Family Say Prayers Outside New York Hospital
-DMX On Life Support After Suffering Heart Attack From Drug Overdose

In 1998, the rapper hit platinum with his first radio album “It’s Dark and Hell is Hot,” which debuted No. 1 on the Billboard 200 albums chart. The album was filled to hilt with smashing hit songs including “Ruff Ryders’ Anthem,” “Get At Me Dog,” “Stop Being Greedy” and “How It’s Goin’ Down.”

 

He went on to release seven more albums including “… And Then There Was X,” “Flesh of My Flesh, Blood of My Blood,” “The Great Depression” and “Grand Champ”.

The rapper, real name Earl Simmons scored 5 No. 1 albums on the Billboard 200 and 15 songs on the Billboard Hot 100.

DMX — who culled his moniker from the name of a drum machine used in rap tracks — racked in three Grammy nominations and became a hiphop fan-favourite, amassing thousands of crowds at his shows.

 

DMX is a cultural icon for those of y’all who are confused. Not DMX 🖤pic.twitter.com/IhOjhAeZBE

— minari lover ➐ (@DarkCollegeGuy) April 3, 2021

X also made his way into Hollywood. He featured in the 1998 film “Belly” and starred alongside Jet Li and Aaliyah in 2002’s “Romeo Must Die”. He also featured in 2001′s “Exit Wounds” with Steven Seagal and 2003′s “Cradle 2 the Grave” also with Li.

 

Today we remember the man, the rapper, and the legend.

 

Here’s a list of ten of his most iconic hits.

Ruff Ryders’ Anthem

Party Up

What They Really Want FT Sisqo

X Gon’ Give It To Ya

We Right Here

Slippin’

Where The Hood At

Get It In The Floor

How’s It Goin’ Down

 

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