Actor and Rapper DMX, whose real name was Earl Simmonds, passed away on Friday, April 9, 2021. He was 50 years old.
The Grammy-nominated performer suffered from “catastrophic cardiac arrest,” according to the Associated Press. He was admitted to a New York hospital on April 2 relating to an overdose and heart attack.
DMX has been on life support since and, according to a former manager, has been in a “vegetative state”.
The family released a statement reading, “Earl was a warrior who fought until 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.”
Late R&B singer Aaliyah’s mother Diane Haughton took to social media to paid tribute to DMX sharing “Earl you had and still have a heart of hold. You and Baby Girl will meet again with all the beautiful people we have lost. We will never forget your kindness. NEVER! Blessings to your family! Eternally! –Aaliyah’s Mom
Photo Credit: Screenshot of Instagram post from @aaliyah on Instagram
DMX, originally from New York, is known for memorable club songs like “Party Up (Up in Here)” and “X Gon’ Give It To Ya” was a staple in hip-hop during the late 90s and early ’00s.
DMX performing at Woodstock in 1999.
The first five of his eight albums were all at no.1 on the billboard 200 album chart.
Albums included “It’s Dark and Hell is Hot” released in 1998, “Flesh of My Flesh Blood of My Blood” released in 1999, “…And Then There Was X” released in 2000, “The Great Depression” released in 2001, and “The Grand Champ” released in 2003.
In addition to being a successful rapper, DMX was an actor who was a part of films like “Romeo Must Die” with Jet Li and the late Aaliyah, Exit Wounds, Cradle 2 the Grave, and Last Hour.
DMX with Steven Segal and Eva Mendes in Exit Wounds
A few highlights from DMX is that he made the time to help the less fortunate.
In 2017 surprised a Philadelphia homeless support group; by giving a group of men advice. He also helped a family in Maine by purchasing back-to-school supplies for a couple of years.
DMX is survived by his 15 children and his mother. You can stream DMX music on services like Spotify and Apple Music.
Cover Photo: Getty Images