Legendary rapper DMX has died in a New York hospital just over a week after suffering a “catastrophic cardiac arrest.” He was 50 years old.
According to a statement from his family, the Grammy-nominated artist (whose real name is Earl Simmons) died surrounded by loved ones after several days on life support.
“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,” the family said, adding that his music “inspired countless fans across the world, and his iconic legacy will live on forever”.
DMX was first rushed to hospital on April 2nd with reports at the time suggesting his hospitalisation was brought on after a drug overdose. His lawyer, Murray Richman, could not confirm reports that DMX overdosed.
Since news of his death, tributes from across the music and cultural spectrum have poured in from the likes of Missy Elliot, Cardi B, Alicia Keys, Shaquille O’Neal, Tom Morello, Charlie Puth and more. Have a look at some of the tributes below.
Even though you had battles you TOUCHED so many through your MUSIC and when you would PRAY so many people FELT THAT! This is heavy for the HipHop family but your LEGACY LIVES ON & your SPIRIT. Continued Prayers for X family & friends for STRENGTH/HEALING?? pic.twitter.com/ZI9NI6Nslg
— Missy Elliott (@MissyElliott) April 9, 2021
No matter the battles and obstacles DMX was facing and going thru he never let his faith in God go.I know he is in heaven and I know the Lord been hearing his prayers for years and he is now in peace .RIP DMX.
— Cardi B (@iamcardib) April 10, 2021
I’ll never forget this day….You said it was your favorite song. I’m so grateful I could play some of it.
There is no one like you…Never will be!
Massive love and blessings to the entire #RuffRyder family. Especially my love @THEREALSWIZZZ
Rest in paradise DMX✨✨✨✨ pic.twitter.com/cXK5bQXwD0
— Alicia Keys (@aliciakeys) April 10, 2021
Respect to you King!! ??❌? Til we meet again … #DMX #gonetoosoon
We all are a work in progress, remember to let your loved one know how you feel while you can. pic.twitter.com/EAIc5ewgph
— Usher Raymond IV (@Usher) April 11, 2021
We lost another Legend
R.I.P DMX pic.twitter.com/DfceOQozQM— SHAQ (@SHAQ) April 9, 2021
Rest In Peace #DMX https://t.co/MnTtndXWV9
— Tom Morello (@tmorello) April 9, 2021
I do feel like a piece of my childhood was lost today. I remember watching videos of DMX at Woodstock ‘99 and waking up every morning at 6am just so I could catch the music video to Party Up on MTV. There’s a reason why his music still goes OFF today. Timeless. RIP DMX. pic.twitter.com/X6kmICtIZI
— Charlie Puth (@charlieputh) April 9, 2021