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DMX, Grammy-nominated rapper and actor, dies aged 50

Lifestyle Team
·3-min read

DMX, the raspy-voiced US hip-hop artist who produced the songs Ruff Ryders' Anthem and Party Up (Up in Here) and who rapped with a trademark delivery that was often paired with growls, barks and "What!" as an ad-lib, has died, according to a statement from his family.

The rapper, whose real name is Earl Simmons, was 50.

DMX arrives at the International Pool Tour World 8-Ball Championship at the Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino August 20, 2005 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The contest was the first-ever championship match between the best male and female pool players in the world and featured Mike Sigel vs. Loree Jon Jones. Sigel won the match to claim the top prize of $150,000 and Jones earned $75,000 as the runner-up - the biggest single payday in the history of the sport.
DMX has died at the age of 50. Photo: Getty Images

"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," a statement released by the family 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."

The Grammy-nominated performer died after suffering "catastrophic cardiac arrest," according to the hospital in White Plains, New York, where he died.

He was rushed there from his home on April 2.

DMX during Woodstock '99 in Saugerties, New York in Saugerties, New York, United States.
The Grammy-nominated performer died after suffering "catastrophic cardiac arrest," according to the hospital in White Plains, New York, where he died. Photo: Getty Images

The rapper had struggled with drug addiction since his teenage years.

Tributes have been pouring in since the family confirmed DMX's passing, just hours after a premature report of his death made the rounds on social media.

Gabrielle Union, who starred in 2003's Cradle 2 the Grave with DMX, posted an emotional tribute to her longtime friend.

"I was praying I wouldn't have to think about how to describe what you meant to me. We bonded over our shared love of dogs, cold beers, Golden Girls reruns, New Edition and adventures," she wrote on Instagram. "I am forever grateful for your joy, your laugh, your protection all these years and your hugs anytime I've seen you. You are 1 of 1. Rest in eternal peace my friend."

Stars like Snoop Dogg, Justin Bieber, Ice T and more also expressed condolences.

DMX at The Apollo Theater on August 5, 2016 in New York City.
The rapper had struggled with drug addiction since his teenage years. Photo: Getty Images

"Love u brother. C u when I get there." Snoop Dogg wrote.

"Rest in paradise my brother. Your gift was so obvious to us all. Thank you for sharing your gift with the world. You will be missed," Justin Bieber said.

"Rest in Heaven DMX," Chance The Rapper wrote.

DMX began performing under the stage name “Dark Man X” in 1984 but his career really took off in the early '90s.

His sophomore album, Flesh of My Flesh, Blood of My Blood, sold 4 million copies and debuted at No. 1 on the US charts in 1998.

He collaborated with some of the biggest named in the music industry, including Jay-Z, Ja Rule, Swizz Beatz and LL Cool J.

DMX's third album, And Then There Was X, got him a Grammy nomination for Best Rap Album.

His hit song, Party Up (Up in Here), was also nominated for Best Rap Solo Performance.

DMX released seven official albums throughout his expansive career.

Reporting by AAP and Taryn Ryder

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