"Rapper DMX has passed," says Official Statement

The iconic rapper was just 50 years old and died today in White Plains, New York.

Rapper DMX passed away today, April 9, following a heart attack and hospitalization on April 2, 2021 after an apparent drug overdose.

DMX, also known as 'X' to his many fans and colleagues, had virtually no brain function for the last week after being deprived of oxygen for nearly 30 minutes following his overdose. That vital brain function never returned, and by Thursday evening his organs had started to fail while he remained on life support at a White Plains, New York hospital.

Image released as part of Def Jam Recordings' official statement on the passing of Earl Simmons, DMX

An official statement from the rapper's camp reads, "Def Jam Recordings and the extended Def Jam family of artists, executives and employees are deeply and profoundly saddened by the loss of our brother Earl “DMX” Simmons. DMX was a brilliant artist and an inspiration to millions around the world. His message of triumph over struggle, his search for the light out of darkness, his pursuit of truth and grace brought us closer to our own humanity. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and all those who loved him and were touched by him. DMX was nothing less than a giant. His legend will live on forever."

The engaged rapper, born Earl Simmons, was met at his bedside by several of his children, his mother, and longtime friends over the last week. Fans and lovers of his motorcycle gang-themed music held vigils and rallies around the New York area over the last several days hoping he'd make a recovery.

Credit: @DMX on Instagram

"I'm devastated," Mike G., a rap producer from the White Plains area where X died, tells News Break exclusively. "He was a real hero to many, and if you grew up in the late 90s and early 2000s, he was a sort of rap God or something that everyone looked up to. His music was great, but it was that deep, rough voice that nobody else in this game could match. He's going to be so missed, and I think his passing is really going to hit our industry hard. He wasn't old, he still had game left in him, and I hope it's a wake up call to anyone messing with drugs."

DMX got his start in the 80s as a rapper in between jail stints until he made it big in the rap music industry in the 90s, eventually being signed to Columbia Records and appearing on tracks with Jay-Z, LL Cool J, Ma$e, and other top industry names of the era.

His debut solo album "It's Dark and Hell is Hot" was the real breakout market of his success though, and launched him to mainstream fame.

We are told by sources close to the family that funeral arrangements are still in progress and the family is requesting as much peace as possible duing their time of mourning. Details of a burial and possible private, family-only wake are expected to be released tomorrow. Vigils across White Plains, New York City, and New Jersey are expected to be held as soon as today.

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Were you a fan or DMX or knew Earl Simmons growing up? We'd love to hear from you in the comments section below with thoughts, memories, and dedications.