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Rap legend DMX passed away Friday morning at the age of 50, after suffering a heart attack a week earlier.
“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,” the family’s statement read. “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.”
On April 2nd, DMX suffered a heart attack in his New York home. Caretakers rushed him to a hospital in White Plains. He was in a coma for seven days despite conflicting reports from news agencies as well as his attorney, Murray Richman, that he was removed from life support services and breathing on his own.
DMX known for making history
The rapper/actor was born in Mount Vernon, New York on December 18, 1970. In 1998 he signed with Ruff Ryders/Def Jam Records and exploded onto the rap scene. His first album with the label “It’s Dark and Hell is Hot” debuted at no.1 on Billboard 200 and eventually went platinum five times over. His next four albums all debuted at no.1. Ultimately, he became the first artist in history to have five consecutive albums to debut at no.1.
DMX’s career was sometimes overshadowed by his legal troubles and drug addiction. In 2017 he pleaded guilty to tax fraud and was sentenced to one year in prison. After his release in 2019, the rapper cancelled a planned concert tour after citing on his Instagram account that he was “putting family and sobriety first.”
A legend in Hip Hop
In an interview with GQ in 2019, DMX opened up about his upbringing, time spent in prison, and his influence on rap culture.
Celebrities have been sharing their condolences on Twitter to DMX and his family.
The family has yet to release any plans for a memorial service.