ATLANTA — The family of rapper DMX said he has died at age 50. He was popularly known for delivering iconic hip-hop songs such as “Ruff Ryders’ Anthem," "Party Up," and "Slippin".
The news of his death comes just one day after false reports started circulating online Thursday, claiming that the rapper, whose real name is Earl Simmons, had passed away.
DMX had been in the hospital for several days following a heart attack, according to his team. They said he was admitted to a New York hospital last Friday.
On April 9, a statement from his relatives said DMX died at a hospital in White Plains, New York, “with his family by his side after being placed on life support for the past few days."
Initial reports said DMX had overdosed on drugs, but his longtime lawyer previously said he wasn’t sure what caused the heart attack. Over the years, DMX has battled with substance abuse. The rapper canceled a series of shows to check himself into a rehabilitation facility in 2019. In an Instagram post, his team said he apologized for the canceled shows and thanked his fans for the continued support.
On Monday, supporters and family of the rapper chanted his name and offered up prayers outside the New York hospital where he remained in the Intensive Care Unit. DMX reportedly underwent further tests Wednesday on his brain function.
Atlanta radio personalities spoke to 11Alive's Neima Abdulahi about the rapper's impact on the city and musicians from the area.
"Being able to properly put your feelings into song form and convey it in a manner where people feel that. Like, you cut it on, like I felt that," music industry veteran Big Tigger said.
V103 Radio Host DJ Greg Street said DMX is one of the greatest artists of all time. Starting with his breakout year in 1998, he released five No. 1 albums.
"DMX has influence all over the world. At one time, DMX was the biggest artist rapping," Street said.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.