Hip hop fans are mourning the loss of DMX, who tragically passed away on Friday (April 9) one week after suffering a severe heart attack. Fans were praying for the legendary Ruff Ryders MC to pull through after being on life support for several days, but his family sadly confirmed his death in a statement.
“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,” they wrote. “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.”
As countless tributes, prayers and Rest In Peace messages flooded social media, fans were also reminded of X’s epic Verzuz battle against Snoop Dogg last July. Both veteran rappers rhymed and danced along to each other’s songs in what was, at the time, one of the most viewed Verzuz mashups.
“DMX really got to feel that incredible love for his life’s work when him and Snoop did Verzuz. Most people don’t get that. Most people get their flowers after they’re gone,” one fan tweeted. “I’m glad DMX got his flowers.”
“For every complaint about Verzuz that really is the silver lining in all of this, that X got to see and feel the love and admiration fans had for his craft and his gift,” another wrote. “I know Snoop is happy he got to share that with him.”
“That DMX/ Snoop Verzuz was so important,” one fan added.
Others reflected on X’s recent Drink Champs interview, in which he discussed his next album and more.
“So grateful the world got to see DMX in high spirits during his Verzuz battle with Snoop and shortly after a GREAT Drinks Champs interview with NORE,” one fan wrote.
“DMX was excited about his next album, with features from Snoop Dogg, Alicia Keys, Pop Smoke, Griselda, Lil Wayne, Usher etc. I hope they handle this album the right way for him,” another added.
Relive some highlights from the Verzuz below. Rest In Peace, X.