DMX, born Earl Simmons, passed away on April 9th, 2021 at White Plains Hospital with his family by his side, one week after suffering a heart attack. Sadly, he was only 50 years old; however, his passing does not take away his impact on hip-hop music and the generation who watched the rapper rise to stardom.

Simmons was born on December 18th, 1970, in Mount Vernon, New York, and for as long as he could remember, he was a fighter. He had a turbulent relationship with his mother and a lengthy criminal career, having been arrested 30 times. DMX later became a hip-hop sensation in the 1990s, and since released a total of seven studio albums, with the latest record “Undisputed.” His success led him to two American Music Awards for favorite rap/hip-hop artist, and three Grammy nominations. Some of his essential songs that give a glimpse into the late rapper’s mind and can easily be called storytelling classics are “Damien,” “Slippin’,” “The Rain,” “One More Road To Cross,” “The Omen,” “Ruff Ryders’ Anthem,” and “Who We Be.” 

His music tended to be dark, theatrical, and uncanny, with an occasional salute to his Christian roots. As the years went by, he became closer to his faith, even naming his first of 15 children Exodus. DMX said that his son’s name was an inspiration and a nod at the Book of Exodus, or the Book of New Beginnings. He felt that his first-born son was a symbol of a new chapter. The late rapper also loved performing. He would open his shows and end them with prayer on and off stage. Performing always left him emotional and thankful for being surrounded with so much love and opportunity. Now, he left adored fans emotional with only albums as a memory of him.

DMX is a warrior and a legend. His passing left a mark on those of us who were moved by his journey and music. He will never be forgotten. His legacy and artistry will always win the hearts of the ones who loved him, even to the end.