Hip-hop legend DMX passed away today at the age of 50 after suffering a heart attack last week.
The New York rapper rushed to the top of the rap scene in 1998 with his debut, It’s Dark and Hell Is Hot, and the first single “Get at Me Dog” introduced his gritty rap style to the world. “Ruff Ryders’ Anthem,” the third single on the album, still stops people in their tracks 23 years later once the chorus hits. Don’t believe me? Next time you’re at a party just shout “Stop. Drop. Shut ‘em down” and I guarantee people will follow with “Open up shop. Oh, no that’s how Ruff Ryders roll.”
DMX released 8 studio albums over 17 years with 2015’s Redemption of the Beast serving as his final release. The three-time Grammy nominated rapper was also an established actor and made his debut in Hype Williams’ cult-classic Belly alongside fellow MC’s Nas and Method Man. Roles in Romeo Must Die, Exit Wounds and other films followed as well as his own short-lived reality show. He published his memoir E.A.R.L.: The Autobiography of DMX in 2003.
Fans of the Nashville Predators will deeply miss DMX as a portion of “Party Up” was played every time the Preds went on a power play. For what seems like an eternity, the Predators have been one of the NHL’s worst teams on converting power play opportunities and maybe with the passing of the rapper they will play inspired hockey during those 2 minute advantages.
DMX arrived on the music scene and quickly helped fill a void in the world of hip-hop recently left by the tragic passings of TuPac and Biggie Smalls. His loud, in-your-face, and larger than life persona quickly captivated the rap world.
His heart attack was triggered by a drug overdose he suffered last Friday and was put on life support after the attack while family, friends and fans prayed for the best. The influential rapper will forever be known for his brazen, raw lyrics; signature raspy growl and his multiple party anthems, as well as one of the most entertaining renditions of “Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer.”
Steven McCash is the Music Columnist for SoBros Network, and host of the ‘Drinking With…’ podcast. He is the pioneer of New Music Friday, highlighting each week’s new releases in the world of music, in addition to the occasional live show review. Follow on Twitter: @MC_Cash75
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