Fans are celebrating the life and legacy of DMX by streaming his hits.
On Friday (April 9), Chart Data reported that his 1998 hit single “Ruff Ryders’ Anthem” hit No. 1 on U.S. iTunes, shortly after news surfaced that the legendary rapper had passed away. The track was featured on X’s No. 1 debut album It’s Dark and Hell Is Hot and became one of his most popular songs to date.
The single served as an anthem for the Ruff Ryder’s Entertainment record label and their corresponding motorcycle crew. According to People, the “Ruff Ryders’ Anthem” music video is the rapper’s second most-viewed song on YouTube, with over 141 million plays.
On Friday (April 9), DMX sadly passed away following a heart attack. Last weekend, he was rushed to a New York medical facility and placed on life support. Doctors performed numerous brain tests on the music legend, but his brain activity did not improve.
After the brain functioning tests were conducted, the family decided to take the Flesh of My Flesh, Blood of My Blood rapper off life support. “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,” a statement from the family 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,” the statement continued. “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.”
Check out Chart Data’s tweet below.