WHITE PLAINS, N.Y. (NEXSTAR) — Rapper DMX died on Friday, his family said in a statement. He was 50.
The family confirmed he died at White Plains Hospital on Friday after being placed on life support earlier this week.
“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,” the family wrote in a statement released on Friday.
“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.”
The raspy-voiced hip-hop artist who produced the songs “Ruff Ryders’ Anthem” and “Party Up (Up in Here)” and who rapped with a trademark delivery that was often paired with growls, barks and “What!” as an ad-lib, was admitted to the hospital last week, following a heart attack.
The Grammy-nominated performer died after suffering “catastrophic cardiac arrest,” according to the hospital in White Plains, New York, where he died. He was rushed there from his home April 2.
The rapper, whose real name is Earl Simmons, had struggled with drug addiction since his teenage years. His lawyer, Murray Richman, had earlier said he could not confirm reports that DMX overdosed.
On Monday, supporters and family of the trailblazing artist known for his gruff delivery chanted his name and offered up prayers Monday outside the New York hospital where he remained on life support.
DMX, who grew up in Yonkers, made his rap debut in 1998, and has released seven albums in a career that has included three Grammy nominations. He also acted in several movies. But substance abuse has been a struggle for him over the years, including in 2019 when he canceled shows to go to a rehabilitation facility.
Nevertheless, he retained his standing among fans. An online face-off last year with fellow rapper Snoop Dogg as part of the Verzuz series brought more than 500,000 viewers.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
