Legendary rap/hip-hop megastar DMX, who rose to fame on the back of five consecutive Billboard Top 200 debuts in the late ’90s and early part of the new millennium, has sadly died at the age of 50. As reported by many other outlets, the superstar was hospitalized back on April 2nd due to a drug overdose and subsequent heart attack.
DMX’s family has issued a public statement via the press:
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. 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.
The rapper achieved global fame with the iconic single “Ruff Ryders’ Anthem”, and his subsequent performance at the infamous Woodstock ’99, alongside Limp Bizkit and Korn, only existed to buoy DMX’s worldwide fame. His voice was instantly recognizable, as well.
