Earl Simmons, the iconic US rapper better known as DMX, has passed away at the age of 50.
The Grammy-nominated rapper’s death was announced in a statement by his family on Friday.
According to the hospital in White Plains, New York, where he was admitted, DMX died from a “catastrophic cardiac arrest.”
“We are deeply saddened to announce today that our loved one, DMX, birth name of Earl Simmons, passed away at 50-year-old at White Plains Hospital with his family by his side after being placed on life support for the past few days,” the statement read.
“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.”
The rapper was hospitalised last Friday after he had suffered a drug overdose and heart attack.
He had also remained in a coma and underwent multiple brain function tests with negative results after his admission.
DMX had — in the past — spoken openly about his crack cocaine addiction which began at age 14 after he smoked a marijuana cigarette laced with the drug.
The rapper, who has severally undergone rehab, also claimed he was battling bipolar disorder.
Born in New York in 1970, DMX helped build the Ruff Ryders label into a powerhouse during the late 1990s.
The Yonkers-bred MC thereafter became popular with ‘It’s Dark and Hell is Hot’, his 1998 debut album, which sold more than 5 million copies.
The rap icon was known for producing a plethora of hit tracks including ‘Ruff Ryders’ Anthem,’ ‘Party Up (Up in Here),’ ‘We Right Here,’ ‘Who We Be,’ ‘X Gon’ Give It to Ya’ and ‘Where’s the Hood At?’
He was also known to rap with a trademark delivery that was often paired with growls, barks, and “What!” as an ad-lib.
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