DMX’s Legacy Will Continue Long After His Death
Rapper DMX, known for deeply introspective lyrics about his life and struggles, died on April 9 surrounded by his family at White Plains Hospital in New York.
His death came six days after suffering cardiac arrest. The 50-year-old rapper born Earl Simmons battled a life-long drug addiction that he often chronicled in his music.
“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,” his family said in a statement given to People Magazine.
Snoop Dogg, who performed a Verzuz battle with DMZ last summer, posted a clip from the performance on Instagram paying tribute to the iconic performer.
Swizz Beatz, a labelmate of DMX’s on Ruff Ryders Records in the late 1990s, paid tribute to X by posting videos and photos of the performer on social media.
Missy Elliott tweeted an emotional message shortly after his death: “Even though you had battles you TOUCHED so many through your MUSIC and when you would PRAY so many people FELT THAT! This is heavy for the HipHop family but your LEGACY LIVES ON & your SPIRIT. Continued Prayers for X family & friends for STRENGTH/HEALING.”
The rapper with the menacing snarls and sharp lyrics was best known for hits like X Gon’ Give It To Ya and his Ruff Ryders’ Anthem but in the early 1990’s his voice was a staple of New York.
As a kid, DMX was abused by his mother and spent most of his childhood in group homes or incarcerated, according to Rolling Stone Magazine.
Despite his struggles, DMX’s music resonated with fans. His debut 1998 album It’s Dark and Hell Is Hot, sold 251,000 copies in its first week.
Soon after his death, Efren Andaluz—an artist based in Long Island—painted a mural of DMX on a wall adjacent to Estrella Tropical Restaurant in the Williamsbridge section of the Bronx.
I fondly remember listening to DMX’s music on the bus ride to school during my sophomore year of high school. Specifically Fame from his 1999 album…And Then There Was X.
“I’m gon’ live forever, I’m never gon’ die.
Only thing I fear is that I’m never gon’ fly.”
DMX may be gone, but his music and impact lives on posthumously. They will live forever in the minds and hearts of his fans.
