After seven days at White Plains Hospital, rapper, actor, father, Christian, and a member of the Yonkers community, DMX, lost his life at the age of 50.
“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. 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,” said his family in a statement.
Earl Simmons was born in Mt. Venron in 1971 but spent most of his youth in Yonkers, livign a hard knock life with a family life filled with abuse and spending time in and out of group homes and prison. It wasn’t until 1989 that the world got to know DMX, when his album And Then There Was X sold more than 2 million copies, with the hits “Party Up” and “What’s My Name.” DMX also appeared in the movie Romeo Must Die with Aaliyah, in 2000.
In recent years, DMX has been open about his battles with addiction, “There were things that I went through in my childhood where I just blocked it out—but there’s only so much you can block out before you run out of space…So often talking about your problems is viewed as a sign of weakness. When it’s actually one of the bravest things you can do.”
After serving one year in jail for tax evasion, DMX became more open about his Christianity and his desire to give back to his community, Yonkers. He recently particiapted in events with the Yonkers Police Athletic League, and also enjoyed feeding those who were in need.
State Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins said,”Yonkers lost rap legend Earl Simmons best known as DMX. To many in our area he was someone who overcame great obstacles and never forgot where he came from. Growing up in the School Street public housing complex and sharing his painful childhood through his music has always kept him connected to Yonkers, along with his visits to the Nepperhan Community Center to give back to needy families. Sending my heartfelt condolences to his family and friends at this difficult time.”
Mayor Mike Spano said, “Today our city mourns the loss of a musical icon, someone who wore their heart on their sleeve and at every opportunity gave back to Yonkers — the city he loved.Earl Simmons, or as we know him, DMX, was a man of exceptional talent. His spirit will live on in the power of his music and leave a lasting impact on his tremendous following. “
Farewell to DMX and remember was Jesus said, “He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone.”
