Remembering The Legacy Of DMX

There are only a few people in this music industry that held significance to people from all walks of life, and to lose someone that vastly impacted others around the world – it hits to the core. Today, the world is completely distressed and somber with the loss of one of the most iconic figures to date.

The world was introduced to DMX (Earl Simmons), back in 1998 with the release of his first single, “Get at me Dog (Where my Dogs at?).” His rugged baritone. Bellowed over a triumphant, street-style production that bestowed a catchy hook that captivated music lovers. X musical accolades continued to flourish throughout the late 1990’s-2000’s and solidifying his mark in music history by becoming one of the first artists to see five of his albums reaching number one concurrently on the Billboard charts.

To date, DMX sold over 14 million copies in the United States, and a total of 70 million copies worldwide. He amassed 5 number one singles on Billboard 200. Records such as, “Party Up (Up in Here)” and his collaborative effort alongside The Lox and Lil’ Kim with, “Money, Power, Respect,” lasted over 20 weeks on Billboard. The Yonkers native was also nominated three times for a Grammy, four times for an MTV Music Award, once for a BET Award, and won a Soul Train Award back in 2000 for Entertainment of the Year Award.

Aside from his prosperous musical career, DMX stepped into the acting realm with his acting debut featuring fellow Hip-Hop colleague, Nas. From then on, DMX would star in several action-packed movies such as “Romeo Must Die,” “Exit Wounds,” “Cradle to the Grave,” and more recently “Fast and Fierce: Death Race.” He appeared on several television shows such as, “Eve” and “Fresh off the Boat.” 

 But DMX was more than just a Hip-Hop icon and star-studded actor. He was more of a chameleon, ranging from his painstaking, spiritually induced lyricism, transforming to the life of the party with his up-tempo sounds, to being a narrator of the harsh street vices. X music has also been a vocal pillar of using his personal demons to educate other people of the downward spirals of addiction, abuse, depression, and other plaguing variables. “Slipping,” is a record synonymous of his trials and tribulations throughout his childhood and adolescents. Thus, “Slipping” became one of the more memorable staples of DMX discography. 

DMX was never afraid to express his vices as well as his accomplishments, and that’s why he was receptive by millions of people around the world because of his authenticity – whether good, bad, ugly, or indifferent. 

The Hip-Hop icon has acquired many viral moments in recent years – ranging from his stellar rendition of “Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer” to his record, “What They Want” being a sensation on TikTok where many beauty influencers transitioned based on the several female names called upon in the rap. 

During the earlier part of the pandemic, the world was reminded as to why DMX was and still is one of the greatest artists to ever step foot in the industry – when him and fellow legendary act Snoop Dogg came together on a Verzuz segment. It was a clear indication that his music did not only resonated with the old fan base but garnered a new fan appreciation from the current generation. 

DMX energy fueled performances left an impressionable memory for those who bare witnessed to his live performing acts. He produced blood, sweat, and tears during every performance and did not leave one audience member unsatisfied. 

Mr. Earl Simmons best known as DMX, or DarkMan X – will never be forgotten. His short duration on this planet blessed the music lovers globally with treasures that will continue to pass on for generations to follow. Despite his personal triumph, he did overcome obstacles that many couldn’t live to share their testimonies. From being in the foster care system, to performing at sold out arenas; there is no qualms that DMX is the epitome of the ‘greatest of all time.’

Here at MusicXClusives, we would like to share our heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of Mr. Earl Simmons. 

Here are a few memorable moments of DMX in his highlight:

“How it’s Going Down”

“Party Up (Up in Here)”

BET Remembers DMX: