Earl Simmons, better known by his stage persona as Dark Man X or DMX, passed away today (April 9) after being in a vegetative state for a week.
DMX was admitted to the hospital following a heartattack caused by a drug overdose on April 2, 2021. Sources say that DMX suffered from lung and heart issues from a long time back which made matters worse for the rapper.
The rapper was in a coma since and although he was eventually able to breathe on his own, he did not seem to recover from the coma. It was reported that the rapper’s lungs and brain were not functioning. Yesterday, DMX was reported to be undergoing brain tests to look for any signs of recovery.
DMX’s family issued the following statement following his death;
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.
DMX was 50-years-old at the time of his death.
DMX has released eight studio albums throughout his career spanning from 1998 to 2015. His debut studio album ‘It’s Dark and Hell Is Hot’ from 1998 is still regarded to be one of the iconic works in the rap and hip hop industry.
DMX did not have the best of personal lives since his entrance to the music industry. He has had a long standing history of legal issues from weapons possession, animal cruelty, possession of drugs, theft, multiple traffic violations, failure to pay child support, and tax fraud.
DMX also suffered massive financial losses due to child support payments of up to $1.5 million. DMX is said to have fathered 15 children with 9 different women.
Despite all his personal affairs, his contributions to music will be forever valued.
Fellow musicians paid respect to the late rapper upon the news of his passing released.
Rest in peace, DMX!