View source for DMX

{{Short description|American rapper (1970–2021)}}
{{Other uses|DMX (disambiguation)}}
{{Distinguish|Davy DMX}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=April 2021}}
{{Infobox person
| name               = DMX
| image              = DMX.rapper (cropped).jpg
| caption            = DMX in 2001
| birth_name         = Earl Simmons
| birth_date         = {{birth date|1970|12|18}}
| birth_place        = [[Mount Vernon, New York]], U.S.
| death_date         = {{death date and age|2021|4|9|1970|12|18}}
| death_place        = [[White Plains, New York]], U.S.
| burial_place       = [[Oakland Cemetery (Yonkers, New York)|Oakland Cemetery]], [[Yonkers, New York]], U.S.
| other_names        = {{hlist|Dark Man X|X|Divine Master of the Unknown |Dog Master X}}
| occupation         = {{hlist|Rapper|songwriter|actor|record producer}}
| years_active       = 1985–2021
| spouse             = {{marriage|Tashera Simmons|1999|2014|end=divorced}}
| children           = 15
| awards             = 
| module             = {{Infobox musical artist <!-- See Wikipedia:WikiProject Musicians -->
| embed = yes
| instrument = Vocals
| discography = [[DMX discography]]
| origin = [[Yonkers, New York]], U.S.<ref name=earl>{{Cite book |title=E.A.R.L.: The Autobiography of DMX |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=2nUFO9VOaOcC |first1=Earl |last1=Simmons |year=2003 |publisher=[[HarperCollins]] |page=7 |first2=Smokey D. |last2=Fontaine |author-link2=Smokey Fontaine |mode=cs2 |name-list-style=amp |isbn=978-0-06-093403-3 |access-date=October 10, 2016 |archive-date=January 7, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240107202844/https://books.google.com/books?id=2nUFO9VOaOcC |url-status=live }}</ref>
| genre = {{hlist|[[East Coast hip-hop]]|[[horrorcore]]|[[hardcore hip-hop]]<ref name=allmusic>{{cite web|last=Huey|first=Steve|title=DMX Biography|url=https://www.allmusic.com/artist/p68246|publisher=[[AllMusic]]|date=June 12, 2007|access-date=January 7, 2024|archive-date=April 30, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120430222949/http://www.allmusic.com/artist/p68246|url-status=live}}</ref>|[[Christian hip-hop]]<ref name=pitchfork>{{cite web|url=https://pitchfork.com/thepitch/how-dmx-found-god/|publisher=[[Pitchfork (website)|Pitchfork]]|title=How DMX found God|date=April 21, 2021|access-date=September 14, 2023|archive-date=July 28, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230728124742/https://pitchfork.com/thepitch/how-dmx-found-god/|url-status=live}}</ref>}}
| label = {{hlist|[[Rush Associated Labels|RAL]]|[[The Island Def Jam Music Group|Island Def Jam]]|[[Def Jam Recordings|Def Jam]]|[[Ruff Ryders Entertainment|Ruff Ryders]]|[[Columbia Records|Columbia]]|[[Bloodline Records|Bloodline]]|[[Cleopatra Records|Cleopatra]]<ref name="allmusic"/>}}
| past_member_of = {{hlist|[[Murder Inc. (rap group)|Murder Inc.]]|[[Ruff Ryders Entertainment|Ruff Ryders]]}}
| website = {{URL|dmx.store}}
}}
| signature          = DMX Signature.png
}}
'''Earl Simmons''' (December 18, 1970 – April 9, 2021), known professionally as '''DMX''', was an American rapper and actor. The recipient of various accolades, he won an [[American Music Award]], a [[Billboard Music Award|''Billboard'' Music Award]], and was nominated for six [[Grammy Awards]]. Regarded as an influential figure in the late 1990s and one of the greats of [[Hip-hop|hip hop]],<ref name=":bey"/> his music is characterized by his "aggressive" rapping style,<ref name=":hard" /> with lyrical content varying from [[Hardcore hip-hop|hardcore]] themes to [[prayer]]s.<ref name=allmusic/><ref name=pitchfork/><!-- See Impact section --> His violent lyricism helped popularize the [[horrorcore]] genre.<ref name=":hard">{{Cite news |last=Chow |first=Andrew R. |date=April 9, 2021 |title=How DMX's It's Dark and Hell Is Hot Changed the Course of Hip-Hop Forever |work=[[Time Magazine]] |url=https://time.com/5952926/dmx-legacy-hip-hop/ |url-status=live |access-date=August 10, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220805012735/https://time.com/5952926/dmx-legacy-hip-hop/ |archive-date=August 5, 2022}}</ref>

DMX began rapping in the early 1990s. After an unsuccessful tenure on [[Columbia Records]], he signed with [[Ruff Ryders Entertainment]] in a joint venture with [[Def Jam Recordings]] to release his debut studio album, ''[[It's Dark and Hell Is Hot]]'' (1998), which was met with critical and commercial success—selling 251,000 copies in its first week and spawning the [[Billboard Hot 100|''Billboard'' Hot 100]]-top 20 single, "[[Ruff Ryders' Anthem]]".<ref>{{cite web |first=Jason |last=Birchmeier |url=https://www.allmusic.com/album/its-dark-and-hell-is-hot-mw0000034200 |title=It's Dark and Hell Is Hot – DMX |publisher=[[AllMusic]] |date=May 12, 1998 |access-date=April 10, 2021 |archive-date=February 4, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204033311/https://www.allmusic.com/album/its-dark-and-hell-is-hot-mw0000034200 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.liveabout.com/greatest-rappers-of-all-time-2858004 |title=50 Greatest MCs of Our Time (1987–2007) |newspaper=Liveabout |publisher=[[About.com]] |access-date=April 10, 2021 |archive-date=May 31, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200531103359/https://www.liveabout.com/greatest-rappers-of-all-time-2858004 |url-status=live }}</ref> His second album, ''[[Flesh of My Flesh, Blood of My Blood]]'' (1998), was followed by his third, {{nowrap|''[[... And Then There Was X]]''}} (1999), which became his best-selling release and was supported by his second top 40 single, "[[Party Up (Up in Here)]]". His fourth album, ''[[The Great Depression (DMX album)|The Great Depression]]'' (2001), was followed by his fifth, ''[[Grand Champ]]'' (2003), which was led by the single "[[Where the Hood At?]]" and included the international bonus track "[[X Gon' Give It to Ya]]".<ref>{{Cite web|date=April 9, 2021|title=DMX, electrifying rapper who defined 2000s rap, dies at 50|url=https://www.cbsnews.com/news/dmx-dies/|first1=Justin|last1=Carissimo|first2=Zoe Christen|last2=Jones|access-date=April 11, 2021|publisher=CBS News|archive-date=April 15, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210415054949/https://www.cbsnews.com/news/dmx-dies/|url-status=live}}</ref> DMX became the first artist to have their first five albums consecutively debut atop the [[Billboard 200|''Billboard'' 200]], and by his death on April 9, 2021, he had sold over 75 million records worldwide.<ref>{{Cite magazine |date=June 28, 2019 |title=DMX Signs with CAA for Worldwide Representation |url=https://www.billboard.com/articles/business/8518074/dmx-signs-caa-worldwide-representation |first=Talor |last=Mims |access-date=April 12, 2021 |magazine=Billboard |archive-date=April 12, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210412163752/https://www.billboard.com/articles/business/8518074/dmx-signs-caa-worldwide-representation |url-status=live }}</ref>

DMX acted in commercially successful films such as ''[[Belly (film)|Belly]]'' (1998), alongside rapper [[Nas]], ''[[Romeo Must Die]]'' (2000) and ''[[Cradle 2 the Grave]]'' (2003), alongside [[Jet Li]], and ''[[Exit Wounds]]'' (2001), alongside [[Steven Seagal]]. In 2006, he starred in the reality television series ''[[DMX: Soul of a Man]]'', which was primarily aired on the [[Black Entertainment Television (BET)|BET]] [[cable television]] network. In 2003, he published a book of his memoirs titled ''E.A.R.L.: The Autobiography of DMX''.<ref>{{Cite magazine |title=What's the Word: Top 10 Rap Books |url=https://www.xxlmag.com/whats-the-word-top-10-rap-books-excerpt-from-the-dec-jan-2012-issue/ |magazine=[[XXL (magazine)|XXL]] |first1=Adam |last1=Fleischer |first2=Jesse |last2=Gissen |first3=Mark |last3=Lelinwalla |first4=Jayson |last4=Rodriguez |date=December 12, 2011 |access-date=April 10, 2021 |archive-date=April 10, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410043805/https://www.xxlmag.com/whats-the-word-top-10-rap-books-excerpt-from-the-dec-jan-2012-issue/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

==Early life==
Earl Simmons was born on December 18, 1970, in [[Mount Vernon, New York]].<ref>{{Cite news | url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/obituaries/rapper-dmx-dead/2021/04/09/89509a0e-9618-11eb-962b-78c1d8228819_story.html | title=DMX, chart-topping rapper with gruff voice and hardscrabble life, dies at 50 | first=Harrison | last=Smith | newspaper=[[The Washington Post]] | date=April 9, 2021 | access-date=April 11, 2021 | archive-date=April 9, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210409180344/https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/obituaries/rapper-dmx-dead/2021/04/09/89509a0e-9618-11eb-962b-78c1d8228819_story.html | url-status=live }}</ref> He was the son of 19-year-old Arnett Simmons and 18-year-old Joe Barker.<ref>{{cite news | last=Jiménez | first=Jesus | url=https://www.nytimes.com/2021/04/04/arts/dmx-hospitalized.html | title=DMX on Life Support in 'Vegetative State,' Ex-Manager Says | work=[[The New York Times]] | date=April 4, 2021 | access-date=April 4, 2021 | archive-date=April 4, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210404211503/https://www.nytimes.com/2021/04/04/arts/dmx-hospitalized.html | url-status=live }}</ref> Simmons was the middle child of the family; his mother had given birth to a daughter, Bonita, two years prior, and later gave birth to a second daughter, Shayla, and two stillborn sons.<ref name=earl/> His father, Barker, painted [[watercolor painting]]s of street scenes to sell at local fairs, having moved to Philadelphia to fulfill his career.<ref name=agony>{{Cite news | url=https://www.gq.com/story/dmx-obituary | title=DMX Turned Agony and Atomic Energy Into One of Rap's Most Titanic Legacies | first=JEFF | last=WEISS | work=[[GQ]] | date=April 10, 2021 | access-date=January 7, 2024 | archive-date=April 14, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210414192918/https://www.gq.com/story/dmx-obituary | url-status=live }}</ref>

In his childhood years, Simmons first suffered from physical violence at the hands of his mother and was diagnosed with bronchial asthma.<ref name=earl/><ref name=agony/> He was raised as a [[Jehovah's Witnesses|Jehovah's Witness]]. He disassociated himself from the spirituality after he was injured in an accident by a driver.<ref name=earl/> At the age of five, his mother sent him to live with relatives in [[Yonkers, New York|Yonkers]]' School Street housing apartments.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.revolt.tv/2021/4/10/22377095/city-of-yonkers-honor-dmx|title=City of Yonkers to honor DMX|first=Christopher|last=Harris|date=April 10, 2021|website=REVOLT|access-date=April 12, 2021|archive-date=April 12, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210412215535/https://www.revolt.tv/2021/4/10/22377095/city-of-yonkers-honor-dmx|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="earl" /><ref name="agony" /> After suffering from his mother's abuse, he was expelled from a middle school at the age of ten, having been sent to a group home. He then returned to Yonkers at age fifteen, sleeping in empty storage bins and befriending stray dogs.<ref name="earl" /><ref name="song">{{Cite news |last=Chuck |first=Elizabeth |date=March 29, 2018 |title=DMX song played in court before rapper gets a year in prison for tax evasion |work=[[NBC News]] |url=https://www.nbcnews.com/pop-culture/pop-culture-news/slippin-played-court-rapper-dmx-gets-year-prison-tax-evasion-n861121 |access-date=June 7, 2018 |archive-date=April 11, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210411100717/https://www.nbcnews.com/pop-culture/pop-culture-news/slippin-played-court-rapper-dmx-gets-year-prison-tax-evasion-n861121 |url-status=live }}</ref> Due to poor grades at [[Yonkers Middle High School]], Simmons was unable to finish his [[track and field]] team schedule.<ref name="agony" /> Broke, he robbed several students to find food and clothing for himself, as well as a leather collar and harness for his pet dog.<ref name="earl" /> He then began [[carjacking]].<ref name="agony" />

==Musical career==
===1985–1995: Career beginnings===
His career began in 1985, when he beatboxed for a local rapper named Ready Ron. They would do small shows together where Ron would perform as a rapper, and DMX would beatbox and provide adlibs. After some time, he realized Ron was becoming more prominent on the scene, so he decided to start rapping himself under the name "DMX" inspired by the [[Oberheim DMX]] drum machine<ref name=agony/>—he made it an initialism for "Divine Master Of the Unknown" and later "Darkman X".<ref name=earl/> After serving a two-year prison sentence, he began writing his own lyrics and performing at the local recreation center for younger children. In 1988, while in prison for carjacking, he began dedicating more of his free time to writing lyrics and battling other inmates.<ref name=earl/> During this time, he had created a style called "Spellbound" where he spelled each word out letter by letter. He and future rival, [[K-Solo]], engaged in battles.<ref name=earl/> The initial Ruff Ryders group started with a preteen Jadakiss, Swizz Beatz as a child, and DMX.<ref name="b556">{{cite web | title=MTV.com: Murder Inc.: In Gotti We Trust | website=mtv.com | date=2005-01-31 | url=http://www.mtv.com/bands/m/murder_inc/news_feature_071902/ | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090908020742/http://www.mtv.com/bands/m/murder_inc/news_feature_071902/ | archive-date=2009-09-08 | url-status=dead | access-date=2025-02-27}}</ref> In 1988,<ref name="y360">{{cite web | last=Rys | first=Dan | title=Irv Gotti Explains How Jay Z, DMX and Ja Rule Got Their Record Deals | website=XXL Mag | date=2015-08-27 | url=https://www.xxlmag.com/irv-gotti-jay-z-dmx-ja-rule/ | access-date=2025-02-20}}</ref> [[Irv Gotti]] was roommates with producer [[Chad Elliott]] who later introduced him in the Schlobohm housing projects in [[Yonkers]] to DMX and brothers Joaquin "Waah" and Darrin "Dee" Dean, who had mentioned they were creating a company called [[Ruff Ryders Entertainment|Ruff Ryders]] together. Gotti convinced Waah to buy him a drum machine to produce records for DMX. Elliott and Gotti produced a beat in 1989 called ''Born Loser'' which became one of DMX's first [[music demo]]'s.<ref name="b556"/><ref name="y876">{{cite web | last=Watson | first=Margeaux | title=Irv Gotti's career comeback | website=EW.com | date=2007-12-07 | url=https://ew.com/article/2007/12/07/irv-gottis-career-comeback/ | access-date=2025-02-12}}</ref><ref name="r035">{{cite web | last=Brown | first=Preezy | title=9 gems from Irv Gotti’s “Drink Champs” episode | website=REVOLT | date=2019-12-02 | url=https://www.revolt.tv/article/2019-12-02/83649/9-gems-from-irv-gottis-drink-champs-episode | access-date=2025-02-27}}</ref>

He later made an appearance on ''[[The Stretch Armstrong and Bobbito Show]]'' in January 1991, where he provided a freestyle.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://randomrapradio.com/2017/07/07/dj-stretch-armstrong-show-feat-bobbito-1990-1991-feat-percee-p-dmx-freestyle-remastered/ | title=DJ Stretch Armstrong Show feat Bobbito &#91;1990 & 1991&#93; Feat Percee P & DMX Freestyle &#91;REMASTERED&#93; | date=July 7, 2017 | access-date=December 22, 2022 | archive-date=December 22, 2022 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221222130255/https://randomrapradio.com/2017/07/07/dj-stretch-armstrong-show-feat-bobbito-1990-1991-feat-percee-p-dmx-freestyle-remastered/ | url-status=live }}</ref> ''[[The Source (magazine)|The Source]]'' praised DMX in its ''Unsigned Hype'' column that highlighted unsigned hip-hop artists.<ref>{{Cite news | url=https://www.cleveland.com/entertainment/2021/04/dmxs-legacy-in-12-songs.html | title=DMX's legacy in 12 songs | first=Troy L. | last=Smith | work=[[Cleveland.com]] | date=April 9, 2021 | access-date=January 7, 2024 | archive-date=April 11, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210411153115/https://www.cleveland.com/entertainment/2021/04/dmxs-legacy-in-12-songs.html | url-status=live }}</ref> In 1991, DMX signed a management deal with the then-unknown record label [[Ruff Ryders Entertainment]]. Later that year, [[Columbia Records]] signed DMX to its subsidiary labels Chaos Records and [[Ruffhouse Records]], which released his major debut single "Born Loser" in 1993.<ref name=yahoodmx>{{Cite news | title=Rapper DMX is dead at 50, family confirms | url=https://news.yahoo.com/rapper-dmx-dead-50-family-162500096.html | last=Pendleton | first=Tonya | work=[[Yahoo!]] | date=April 9, 2021 | access-date=April 9, 2021 | archive-date=April 11, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210411100717/https://news.yahoo.com/rapper-dmx-dead-50-family-162500096.html | url-status=live }}</ref> Failing to meet commercial projections and not reaching any music charts, he was then terminated from his contract with Ruffhouse and became an independent artist.<ref name=earl/> In January 1994, [[Death Row Records]] attempted to sign the rapper in a joint venture with Ruff Ryders, although this never materialized.<ref name=earl/>

===1996–1997: Building hype and signing to Def Jam===
After two years of struggling in the industry, his friend and associate, [[Irv Gotti]], became the president of A&R at [[Def Jam Recordings]]. After showcasing for then-president [[Lyor Cohen]], DMX was signed to Def Jam Recordings in May 1997.<ref name="earl" />

===1998–2000: Debut album and commercial success===
DMX recorded tracks from April 1997 to January 1998 for his debut album. During this time, his guest appearances on [[Mase]]'s singles "[[24 Hrs. to Live]]" and "Take What's Yours", [[The Lox]]'s single "[[Money, Power & Respect (song)|Money, Power & Respect]]", and Def Jam labelmate [[LL Cool J]]'s single "[[4, 3, 2, 1 (LL Cool J song)|4, 3, 2, 1]]" created a strong buzz for his upcoming album.<ref name="allmusic"/> In February 1998, he released his debut major-label single "[[Get at Me Dog]]" on [[Def Jam Recordings]]. The single received an [[RIAA certification]] of gold.<ref>{{Cite magazine |last1=Vozick-Levinson |first1=Simon |last2=Buford |first2=Jayson |last3=Hoard |first3=Christian |last4=Ihaza |first4=Jeff |last5=Leight |first5=Elias |last6=Reeves |first6=Mosi |last7=Sheffield |first7=Rob |last8=Vozick-Levinson |first8=Simon |title=DMX: 16 Essential Songs |url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-features/dmx-best-songs-1149785/ |magazine=[[Rolling Stone]] |date=April 9, 2021 |access-date=April 9, 2021 |archive-date=April 13, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210413134003/https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-features/dmx-best-songs-1149785/ |url-status=live }}</ref> His first major-label album ''[[It's Dark and Hell Is Hot]]'', which included the single "[[Ruff Ryders' Anthem]]", was then released in May 1998. The album debuted at number one on the [[Billboard 200|''Billboard'' 200]] chart in the U.S. and sold over six million copies.<ref>{{Cite news |last1=Brown |first1=Preezy |title=DMX's 'It's Dark And Hell Is Hot' Tracklist, Ranked |url=https://www.vibe.com/music/music-news/dmx-its-dark-and-hell-is-hot-tracklist-ranked-587279/ |work=[[Vibe (magazine)|Vibe]] |date=May 23, 2018 |access-date=April 9, 2021 |archive-date=April 9, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210409162401/https://www.vibe.com/music/music-news/dmx-its-dark-and-hell-is-hot-tracklist-ranked-587279/ |url-status=live }}</ref> In December 1998, he released his album ''[[Flesh of My Flesh, Blood of My Blood]]''. It debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 and went multi-platinum.<ref name=yahoodmx/> DMX became the only rapper alive to have his first two consecutive number-one Billboard 200 albums within a one-year period (seven months by calculation) and the first since [[Tupac Shakur]];<ref name=":0">{{Cite magazine |last=Grein |first=Paul |date=2023-07-10 |title=Here's the First Rap Album to Top the Billboard 200 in Each Calendar Year (Complete List) |url=https://www.billboard.com/music/chart-beat/first-rap-album-number-one-billboard-200-year-complete-list-1235368726/ |access-date=2023-10-16 |magazine=Billboard |language=en-US |archive-date=October 16, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231016173110/https://www.billboard.com/music/chart-beat/first-rap-album-number-one-billboard-200-year-complete-list-1235368726/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=McIntyre |first=Hugh |title=DMX Was A Pioneer Among Rappers On The Albums Chart |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/hughmcintyre/2021/04/09/dmx-was-a-pioneer-among-rappers-on-the-albums-chart/ |access-date=2023-10-16 |website=Forbes |language=en |archive-date=October 23, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231023025412/https://www.forbes.com/sites/hughmcintyre/2021/04/09/dmx-was-a-pioneer-among-rappers-on-the-albums-chart/ |url-status=live }}</ref> DMX's record would later be surpassed two different times in 2020 by [[YoungBoy Never Broke Again]], who made the number one position with two albums in six months (a month down by proxy, making it the fastest) and also had three number one albums in ten months between 2019 and 2020, also beating another ''Billboard'' record by DMX involving a quantity of number one rap albums within a year.<ref name=":0" />

He released his third album ''[[... And Then There Was X]]'', on December 21, 1999.<ref>{{Cite web | url=https://genius.com/albums/Dmx/And-then-there-was-x | title=...And Then There Was X | publisher=[[Genius (website)|Genius]] | access-date=January 7, 2024 | archive-date=April 11, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210411153115/https://genius.com/albums/Dmx/And-then-there-was-x | url-status=live }}</ref> It was his third album to debut at number one on the Billboard 200. Its most popular single, "[[Party Up (Up in Here)]]", became his first top ten hit on the [[rhythm and blues|R&B]] charts, and was nominated for a [[Grammy Award for Best Rap Solo Performance]] at the [[2001 Grammy Awards]].<ref name="grammyawards" /> The album was certified six-times Platinum, and was also nominated for [[Best Rap Album]] at the 2001 Grammy Awards.<ref name="allmusic" /><ref name="grammyawards" /> In 2000, DMX also made a cameo appearance in the [[Sum 41]] music video for "[[Makes No Difference]]".<ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.thebiglead.com/posts/dmx-rode-an-atv-in-sum-41-s-video-for-makes-no-difference-01f2vy1p5fah | title=DMX Rode an ATV in Sum 41's Video for 'Makes No Difference' | first=Ryan | last=Phillips | work=[[The Big Lead]] | date=April 9, 2021 | access-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410043805/https://www.thebiglead.com/posts/dmx-rode-an-atv-in-sum-41-s-video-for-makes-no-difference-01f2vy1p5fah | url-status=live }}</ref>

In late 2000, he joined other Hip Hop and Nu Metal artists on the [[Anger Management Tour]]. Appearing alongside [[Limp Bizkit]], [[Godsmack]] and Sinnistar for the second half of the tour from November 24 to December 19, 2000.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Limp Bizkit Add Anger Management Tour Dates |url=https://www.mtv.com/news/em6xds/limp-bizkit-add-anger-management-tour-dates |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230505171953/https://www.mtv.com/news/em6xds/limp-bizkit-add-anger-management-tour-dates |archive-date=May 5, 2023 |access-date=2024-04-08 |website=MTV |language=en}}</ref>

===2001–2004: Return to music===
After improving his legal situation, DMX returned to the studio to complete his fourth album, ''[[The Great Depression (DMX album)|The Great Depression]]''. With its release on October 23, 2001, it was his fourth album to debut at number one on the Billboard 200, featuring the singles "Who We Be", "We Right Here", and "I Miss You". Despite the album's triple platinum certification, its commercial and critical success was lower than his previous album.<ref name="allmusic"/> His fifth album, ''[[Grand Champ]]'', released in September 2003, once again debuted at number one on the ''Billboard'' 200, becoming his final album in his lifetime to do so. It sold over four million in the U.S., including the singles "Where the Hood At?" and "Get It on the Floor". After its release, he informed the public that he planned to retire, intending for ''Grand Champ'' to be his final album.<ref>{{Cite news | url=https://kiss951.com/2021/04/09/dmx-prayer-tracks-released-as-he-nears-the-end-of-his-life/ | title=DMX: 'Prayer' EP Released As He Remains on Life Support | access-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410041244/https://kiss951.com/2021/04/09/dmx-prayer-tracks-released-as-he-nears-the-end-of-his-life/ | url-status=live }}</ref>

===2005–2011: ''Year of the Dog... Again'' and ''The Definition of X''===
[[File:Academy Awards afterparty CUN DMX.jpg|thumbnail|left|upright|DMX in February 2007]]
After conflict with Def Jam, DMX signed to Columbia Records, Def Jam's former parent company, in January 2006, returning to the label since 1992. He recorded his sixth album, ''[[Year of the Dog... Again]]'', while switching between the two labels, which caused numerous delays.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Reid |first=Shaheem |title=DMX Signs With Columbia, Will Release Long-Delayed LP This Spring |url=http://www.mtv.com/news/1520736/dmx-signs-with-columbia-will-release-long-delayed-lp-this-spring/ |work=[[MTV News]] |date=January 13, 2006 |access-date=April 10, 2021 |archive-date=April 10, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410041241/http://www.mtv.com/news/1520736/dmx-signs-with-columbia-will-release-long-delayed-lp-this-spring/ }}</ref> It was released on August 1, 2006, and debuted at number two on the ''Billboard'' 200.<ref>{{cite magazine |url=https://www.billboard.com/articles/news/57583/now-22-edges-out-dmxs-dog-at-no-1 |title='NOW 22' Edges Out DMX's 'Dog' At No. 1 |magazine=[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]] |date=August 9, 2006 |access-date=April 10, 2021 |archive-date=April 10, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410041425/https://www.billboard.com/articles/news/57583/now-22-edges-out-dmxs-dog-at-no-1 |url-status=live }}</ref> He released two more singles, "[[Lord Give Me a Sign]]" and "[[We in Here]]". The album received mixed reviews from critics.{{Citation needed|date=October 2023}} On June 12, 2007, Def Jam released his greatest hits album, ''[[The Definition of X: The Pick of the Litter]]''.<ref name="allmusic"/>

In 2009, DMX claimed he would pursue preaching in Jersey City, New Jersey as well as continue to produce music. He completed a [[Gospel music]] album prior to his incarceration. According to MTV, he had semi-retired to study the Bible in an effort to give messages behind the pulpit.<ref>{{Cite news | first=Shaheem | last=Reid | url=http://www.mtv.com/news/1502925/mase-advises-dmx-to-rap-again-wait-for-the-lords-call/ | title=Mase Advises DMX To Rap Again, Wait For The Lord's Call | work=[[MTV News]] | date=May 25, 2005 | access-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410041243/http://www.mtv.com/news/1502925/mase-advises-dmx-to-rap-again-wait-for-the-lords-call/ }}</ref> Def Jam released another compilation album in 2010 titled ''[[The Best of DMX]]'', which features hit singles including "[[Where the Hood At?]]" and "[[X Gon' Give It To Ya]]".<ref>{{cite web | url=https://music.apple.com/us/album/the-best-of-dmx/350700346e | title=''The Best of DMX'' | publisher=[[iTunes]] | access-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410041242/https://music.apple.com/us/album/the-best-of-dmx/350700346e }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003102JEG |title=Best of Dmx: Dmx: Music |publisher=[[Amazon (company)|Amazon]] |access-date=August 30, 2017 |archive-date=January 7, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240107202845/https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003102JEG |url-status=live }}</ref>

===2011–2013: ''Undisputed''===
On October 11, 2011, DMX performed at the 2011 [[BET Hip Hop Awards]]. He stated that he has been working "nonstop, every day" on his seventh album, which was titled ''[[Undisputed (DMX album)|Undisputed]]''.<ref>{{cite magazine | url=https://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/hip-hop/468570/dmx-working-nonstop-on-new-album-calls-current-hip-hop-too-corny | title=DMX Working 'Nonstop' on New Album, Calls Current Hip-Hop 'Too Corny' | first=Jason | last=Lipshutz | magazine=[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]] | date=August 2, 2011 | access-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410041241/https://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/hip-hop/468570/dmx-working-nonstop-on-new-album-calls-current-hip-hop-too-corny | url-status=live }}</ref> A video for a new track titled "Last Hope" was released via the Internet on September 24, 2011, and was later included on ''[[The Weigh In]]'' EP released digitally on May 5, 2012. In late February 2012, [[Seven Arts Pictures]] acquired the catalog of DMX's music and signed DMX to a two-album deal.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://sec.report/Document/0001213900-14-006623/ | publisher=[[United States Securities and Exchange Commission]] | title=FORM 10-K/A for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2013 | access-date=April 11, 2021 | archive-date=April 11, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210411051559/https://sec.report/Document/0001213900-14-006623/ }}</ref> During a performance at New York's [[Santos Party House]] on December 25, 2011, DMX stated that the new album would be titled ''Undisputed'' and would be released on March 26, 2012. After numerous delays,<ref>{{cite news |last=Horowitz |first=Steven J. |url=https://hiphopdx.com/news/id.18150/title.dmx-undisputed-tracklist-production-credits |title=DMX Enlists Busta Rhymes, Tyrese & Jennifer Hudson For "Undisputed" |work=[[HipHopDX]] |date=January 2, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120224112113/http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.18150/title.dmx-enlists-busta-rhymes-tyrese-jennifer-hudson-for-undisputed |archive-date=February 24, 2012 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine | url=https://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/the-juice/504439/dmx-tears-up-nyc-talks-album-delay-and-fresh-start | title=DMX Tears Up NYC, Talks Album Delay and Fresh Start – The Juice | magazine=[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]] | first=Jason | last=Lipshutz | date=February 24, 2012 | access-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410043804/https://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/the-juice/504439/dmx-tears-up-nyc-talks-album-delay-and-fresh-start | url-status=live }}</ref> the album was eventually released on September 11, 2012, and featured production from [[Swizz Beatz]] and [[J.R. Rotem]] with a guest appearance by [[Machine Gun Kelly (musician)|MGK]].

===2013–2021: Def Jam reunion and ''Exodus''===
In 2013, DMX announced he had begun working on his eighth studio album. He collaborated with producers Swizz Beatz<ref>{{cite news |last=Tardio |first=Andres |url=https://hiphopdx.com/news/id.25793/title.dmx-swizz-beatz-collaborating-on-new-dmx-album |title=DMX & Swizz Beatz Collaborating On New DMX Album | work=[[HipHopDX]] |date=October 14, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140223174035/http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.25793/title.dmx-swizz-beatz-collaborating-on-new-dmx-album |archive-date=February 23, 2014 |url-status=live}}</ref> and [[Dame Grease]]. In December, after regaining his passport, he embarked on a world tour with performances in Bulgaria and Kosovo.<ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.vibe.com/music/music-news/dmx-announces-us-tour-dates-209992/ | title=DMX Announces U.S. Tour Dates | work=[[Vibe (magazine)|Vibe]] | first=Iyana | last=Robertson | date=February 23, 2014 | access-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410043804/https://www.vibe.com/music/music-news/dmx-announces-us-tour-dates-209992/ | url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=DMX arrives to Bulgaria and will be a guest of Hotel Vega Sofia. |url=https://www.hotelvegasofia.bg/en/news/news7.html |work=Hotel Vega Sofia |date=November 11, 2013 |access-date=April 10, 2021 |archive-date=April 10, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410041245/https://www.hotelvegasofia.bg/en/news/news7.html |url-status=live }}</ref> On January 7, 2015, Seven Arts Music announced that DMX would be releasing ''[[Redemption of the Beast]]'' the following week; however, close personal friend and recurring collaborator producer/rapper/entrepreneur Swizz Beatz and DMX's management confirmed that this was false.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.hotnewhiphop.com/dmx-is-dropping-an-album-next-week-update-dmx-and-swizz-beatz-say-it-s-unauthorized-news.13484.html |title=DMX Is Dropping An Album Next Week [Update: DMX & Swizz Beatz Say It's Unauthorized] |first=Trevor |last=Smith |publisher=Hotnewhiphop.com |date=January 7, 2015 |access-date=January 7, 2024 |archive-date=April 11, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210411051558/https://www.hotnewhiphop.com/dmx-is-dropping-an-album-next-week-update-dmx-and-swizz-beatz-say-it-s-unauthorized-news.13484.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news | url=https://hiphopdx.com/news/id.32044/title.dmx-redemption-of-the-beast-album-legitimate-seven-arts-entertainment-ceo-says | title=DMX "REDEMPTION OF THE BEAST" ALBUM LEGITIMATE, SEVEN ARTS ENTERTAINMENT CEO SAYS | first=Jay | last=Balfour | work=[[HipHopDX]] | date=January 8, 2015 | access-date=January 7, 2024 | archive-date=April 11, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210411051600/https://hiphopdx.com/news/id.32044/title.dmx-redemption-of-the-beast-album-legitimate-seven-arts-entertainment-ceo-says | url-status=live }}</ref> On January 13, 2015, Seven Arts Music released ''Redemption of the Beast'', without acquiring a legal artist contract. On January 15, 2015, it was announced by DMX's brother/manager Montana that DMX was no longer signed to Seven Arts Music and that they would be taking legal action against Seven Arts Music for the unauthorized release of ''Redemption of the Beast''.<ref>{{cite news | url=https://allhiphop.com/news/dmx-to-pursue-legal-action-against-company-releasing-redemption-of-the-beast-seven-arts-entertainment/ | title=DMX To Pursue Legal Action Against Company Releasing 'Redemption Of The Beast' | work=[[AllHipHop]] | date=January 16, 2015 | access-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410064015/https://allhiphop.com/news/dmx-to-pursue-legal-action-against-company-releasing-redemption-of-the-beast-seven-arts-entertainment/ | url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Rohn |first=Jake |url=https://hiphopdx.com/news/id.32126/title.dmxs-team-pursues-legal-action-over-redemption-of-the-beast | title=DMX's Team Pursues Legal Action Over "Redemption Of The Beast" | work=[[HipHopDX]] |date=January 15, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150313073256/http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.32126/title.dmxs-team-pursues-legal-action-over-redemption-of-the-beast |archive-date=March 13, 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref>

Long-time collaborator Swizz Beatz stated that two of the collaborators on the album would be [[Kanye West]] and [[Dr. Dre]].<ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.complex.com/pigeons-and-planes/2016/05/dmx-has-a-new-album-on-the-way-featuring-kanye-west-and-dr-dre | title=DMX Has A New Album On the Way Featuring Kanye West and Dr. Dre | work=[[Complex Networks]] | date=March 15, 2016 | access-date=January 7, 2024 | archive-date=April 11, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210411051558/https://www.complex.com/pigeons-and-planes/2016/05/dmx-has-a-new-album-on-the-way-featuring-kanye-west-and-dr-dre | url-status=live }}</ref> His 2003 song "X Gon' Give It to Ya" was featured in the 2016 film ''[[Deadpool (film)|Deadpool]]'' and in its trailers. On June 28, 2016, DMX released a new song titled "Blood Red" and produced by Divine Bars.<ref>{{Cite news | url=https://thesource.com/2016/06/28/listen-to-dmxs-new-single-blood-red/ | title=LISTEN TO DMX'S NEW SINGLE "BLOOD RED" | first=ROCKO | last=RATHON | work=[[The Source (magazine)|The Source]] | date=June 28, 2016 | access-date=January 7, 2024 | archive-date=April 11, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210411051608/https://thesource.com/2016/06/28/listen-to-dmxs-new-single-blood-red/ | url-status=live }}</ref> On January 11, 2017, DMX released a new song produced by Swizz Beats titled "Bain Iz Back".<ref>{{Cite news | url=https://www.spin.com/2017/01/new-music-dmx-feat-swizz-beatz-bane-iz-back/ | title=New Music: DMX Feat. Swizz Beatz – "Bane Iz Back" | first=Taylor | last=Berman | work=[[Spin (magazine)|Spin]] | date=January 11, 2017 | access-date=January 7, 2024 | archive-date=April 11, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210411051557/https://www.spin.com/2017/01/new-music-dmx-feat-swizz-beatz-bane-iz-back/ | url-status=live }}</ref> On September 20, 2019, DMX signed a new record deal with [[Def Jam Recordings]], reuniting with the label for the first time since his 2003 album ''[[Grand Champ]]''.<ref>{{Cite news | url=https://www.complex.com/music/2019/09/dmx-signs-new-deal-def-jam | title=DMX Reportedly Signs New Deal With Def Jam | first=TARA C. | last=MAHADEVAN | work=[[Complex Networks]] | date=September 20, 2019 | access-date=September 29, 2019 | archive-date=April 13, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210413073544/https://www.complex.com/music/2019/09/dmx-signs-new-deal-def-jam | url-status=live }}</ref> He joined fellow labelmate, LL Cool J, in the reunion with the label.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2019-09-22 |title=Props to the Old School: LL Cool J and DMX Reportedly Sign New Deals With Def Jam Records |url=https://www.theroot.com/props-to-the-old-school-ll-cool-j-and-dmx-reportedly-s-1838336009 |access-date=2023-10-16 |website=The Root |language=en |archive-date=October 23, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231023025413/https://www.theroot.com/props-to-the-old-school-ll-cool-j-and-dmx-reportedly-s-1838336009 |url-status=live }}</ref>

DMX's eighth and posthumous studio album, ''[[Exodus (DMX album)|Exodus]]'', was released through Def Jam on May 28, 2021.<ref>{{Cite magazine|url=https://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/hip-hop/9573402/dmx-exodus-album-tracklist/|title=DMX's Posthumous Album 'Exodus' to Feature Jay-Z, Nas & Bono: Full Tracklist Revealed|date=May 15, 2021|first=Mitchell|last=Peters|magazine=[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]]|access-date=May 16, 2021|archive-date=May 24, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210524195205/https://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/hip-hop/9573402/dmx-exodus-album-tracklist|url-status=live}}</ref>

==Personal life==

===Religion===
DMX was a born-again Christian,<ref name=readsbible>{{cite news | last=Weber | first=Katherine | url=https://www.christianpost.com/news/rapper-dmx-reads-bible-verses-to-struggling-fan-on-los-angeles-street-video-106611/ | title=Rapper DMX Reads Bible Verses to Struggling Fan on Los Angeles Street | date=October 14, 2013 | work=[[The Christian Post]] | access-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-date=April 11, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210411085956/https://www.christianpost.com/news/rapper-dmx-reads-bible-verses-to-struggling-fan-on-los-angeles-street-video-106611/ | url-status=live }}</ref> and stated that he read the Bible every day.<ref>{{Cite AV media | url=https://youtube.com/watch?v=wuhfMSACPgU |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211211/wuhfMSACPgU| archive-date=2021-12-11 |url-status=live| title=Jailhouse Interview of DMX | work=[[Fox 10 Phoenix]] | via=[[YouTube]] | date=January 13, 2009}}{{cbignore}}</ref><ref name=calling>{{cite news|url=https://www.christiantoday.com/article/rapper.dmx.says.life.calling.is.to.be.a.pastor/22333.htm|title=Rapper DMX says life calling is to be a pastor|work=[[Christian Today]]|date=January 19, 2009|access-date=April 10, 2021|archive-date=April 10, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410064016/https://www.christiantoday.com/article/rapper.dmx.says.life.calling.is.to.be.a.pastor/22333.htm|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://faithfullymagazine.com/dmx-sermon-god/ |title=DMX Reveals Pleading With God to Change His Life in 'First-Ever' Sermon |work=Faithfully |last=Menzie |first=Nicola A. |date=April 13, 2021 |access-date=August 11, 2021 |archive-date=September 25, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210925035128/https://faithfullymagazine.com/dmx-sermon-god/ |url-status=live }}</ref> While in jail, DMX stated that he had a purpose for being there: {{Blockquote|"I came here to meet somebody...Don't know who it was, but I'll know when I see him. And I came here to give him a message. And that message is Jesus loves them."<ref name=calling/>}} DMX was a [[transitional deacon]] and aspired to become ordained as a pastor, stating that he received this [[Religious calling|call]] in 2009.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.breathecast.com/articles/dmx-pastor-aspirations-rap-god-eminem-13455/ |title=DMX Talks About Becoming a Pastor and How He Feels about Eminem Being 'Rap God' |last=Law |first=Jeannie |work=Breathecast |date=January 8, 2014 |access-date=September 24, 2014 |archive-date=August 7, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140807000432/http://www.breathecast.com/articles/dmx-pastor-aspirations-rap-god-eminem-13455/ |url-status=live }}</ref> In 2016, he gave a sermon at a church in Phoenix, Arizona.<ref>{{Cite news | url=https://www.christianpost.com/news/rapper-dmx-preaches-at-church-in-phoenix-about-miracles-and-tragedy-video.html | title=Rapper DMX Preaches at Church in Phoenix About Miracles and Tragedy (Video) | first=Jeannie | last=Law | work=[[The Christian Post]] | date=August 22, 2016 | access-date=January 7, 2024 | archive-date=April 12, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210412002022/https://www.christianpost.com/news/rapper-dmx-preaches-at-church-in-phoenix-about-miracles-and-tragedy-video.html | url-status=live }}</ref>

===Relationships and children===
[[File:01.DMX.DCS.WDC.28jul06.jpg|thumbnail|left|upright|DMX in July 2006]]
DMX was the father of 15 children from 9 different women.<ref name=curse>{{cite news | url=https://www.mercurynews.com/2021/04/05/dmxs-curse-tricked-into-smoking-crack-at-14-started-lifelong-addiction/ | title=DMX's 'curse': Tricked into smoking crack at 14… | first=Martha | last=Ross | work=[[Mercury News]] | date=April 5, 2021 | access-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410064025/https://www.mercurynews.com/2021/04/05/dmxs-curse-tricked-into-smoking-crack-at-14-started-lifelong-addiction/ | url-status=live }}</ref> He married his childhood friend Tashera Simmons in 1999.<ref name=bbcobituary>{{cite news | url=https://www.bbc.com/news/entertainment-arts-56647793 | title=Obituary: DMX, the record-breaking rapper with bark and bite | work=[[BBC News]] | date=April 9, 2021 | access-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-date=April 13, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210413141808/https://www.bbc.com/news/entertainment-arts-56647793 | url-status=live }}</ref> They had four children together: Xavier (born 1992), Tacoma (born 1999), Sean (born 2002), and Praise Mary Ella (born 2005).<ref>{{cite web | title=DMX Kids: How Many Children Does the Rapper Have? | url=https://heavy.com/entertainment/dmx-kids-children/ | date=April 5, 2021 | first=Nolan | last=Strong | publisher=[[Heavy (website)|Heavy]] | access-date=April 9, 2021 | archive-date=April 9, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210409194737/https://heavy.com/entertainment/dmx-kids-children/ | url-status=live }}</ref> In July 2010, after his first of three incarcerations that year, Tashera announced their separation.<ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.vibe.com/news/entertainment/v-exclusive-tashera-simmons-talks-living-dmx-infidelity-new-chapter-40708/ | title=V Exclusive: Tashera Simmons Talks Living With DMX, Infidelity & A New Chapter | work=[[Vibe (magazine)|Vibe]] | access-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410034233/https://www.vibe.com/news/entertainment/v-exclusive-tashera-simmons-talks-living-dmx-infidelity-new-chapter-40708/ | url-status=live }}</ref> They divorced in 2014<ref name=independentfinal>{{cite news |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/music/news/dmx-final-words-death-tashera-simmons-b1849914.html | title=DMX's ex-wife Tashera Simmons says his final words reassured her he wasn't afraid to die | work=[[The Independent]] | date= May 19, 2021 | access-date=July 22, 2022}}</ref> and remained friends,<ref name=bbcobituary/> although in 2016, Tashera accused DMX of missing his $10,000/month [[child support]] payment.<ref name=baby/>

DMX had a daughter, Sasha (born 2002), with Patricia Trejo.<ref>{{Cite news | url=https://hiphopdx.com/news/id.61530/title.dmxs-daughter-commemorates-her-father-with-heartfelt-post-my-twin-i-love-you | title=DMX'S DAUGHTER COMMEMORATES HER FATHER WITH HEARTFELT POST: 'MY TWIN, I LOVE YOU' | work=[[HipHopDX]] | date=April 12, 2021 | access-date=April 13, 2021 | archive-date=April 13, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210413014125/https://hiphopdx.com/news/id.61530/title.dmxs-daughter-commemorates-her-father-with-heartfelt-post-my-twin-i-love-you | url-status=live }}</ref> In 2012, Trejo sued DMX for $1&nbsp;million in unpaid child support. The case was settled in 2013.<ref>{{Cite news | url=https://www.tmz.com/2013/12/28/dmx-baby-mama-settlement-passport-travel-europe/ | title=Settles $1M Child Support Case With Baby Mama | work=[[TMZ]] | date=December 28, 2013 | access-date=April 13, 2021 | archive-date=April 13, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210413043136/https://www.tmz.com/2013/12/28/dmx-baby-mama-settlement-passport-travel-europe/ | url-status=live }}</ref>
 
DMX and Monique Wayne, a Maryland resident, fought over her claim that he was the father of her son born in 2004. She sued him for defamation and for child support.<ref name=vacates>{{cite magazine | url=https://www.billboard.com/articles/news/1045300/judge-vacates-15-million-judgment-vs-dmx | title=Judge Vacates $1.5 Million Judgment Vs. DMX | magazine=[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]] | date=May 23, 2008 | access-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410034233/https://www.billboard.com/articles/news/1045300/judge-vacates-15-million-judgment-vs-dmx | url-status=live }}</ref> After genetic testing proved that DMX was the father, in January 2008, DMX was ordered to pay Wayne $1.5&nbsp;million, but a judge vacated the judgment in May 2008.<ref name=vacates/><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/01/11/AR2008011103371.html |title=DMX Ordered to Pay $1.5 Million |newspaper=[[The Washington Post]] |date=January 11, 2008 |access-date=August 26, 2017 |archive-date=June 27, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180627060347/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/01/11/AR2008011103371.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/10/13/AR2006101301529_pf.html |title=DMX: Call Him TBA Instead |newspaper=The Washington Post |date=October 14, 2006 |access-date=August 26, 2017 |archive-date=March 5, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160305021405/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/10/13/AR2006101301529_pf.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news | url=https://www.today.com/popculture/judge-vacates-1-5-m-judgment-against-dmx-1C9414455 | title=Judge vacates $1.5 M judgment against DMX | date=May 22, 2008 | agency=[[The Associated Press]] | publisher=[[Today (American TV program)|Today]] | access-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410034234/https://www.today.com/popculture/judge-vacates-1-5-m-judgment-against-dmx-1C9414455 | url-status=live }}</ref>

DMX also fathered a son and a daughter with Yadira Borrego. The son was 11 years old at the time of DMX's death, while the daughter's age was not known by the general public.<ref name=kids>{{Cite news | url=https://hollywoodlife.com/feature/dmx-kids-4367881/ | title=DMX's Kids: Everything To Know About His 15 Kids From Oldest To Youngest Following His Tragic Death | first=Julia | last=Teti | work=[[Hollywood Life]] | date=April 9, 2021 | access-date=April 11, 2021 | archive-date=April 11, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210411184834/https://hollywoodlife.com/feature/dmx-kids-4367881/ | url-status=live }}</ref> He fathered another child with his fiancée Desiree Lindstrom on August 16, 2016.<ref name=kids/><ref name=baby>{{cite news |last=Ivey |first=Justin |title=DMX Welcomes His 15th Baby Into the World |url=https://www.xxlmag.com/dmx-welcomes-baby-into-world/ |work=[[XXL (magazine)|XXL]] |date=August 22, 2016 |access-date=April 10, 2021 |archive-date=April 10, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410034234/https://www.xxlmag.com/dmx-welcomes-baby-into-world/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=Mauli|first=Chad|date=2021-10-24|title=Woman Claims She Is DMX's 15th Child amid Estate Battle|url=https://allrapnews.com/news/dmx-15th-child-estate-battle/|access-date=2021-10-25|website=All Rap News|language=en-US|archive-date=October 26, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211026000328/https://allrapnews.com/news/dmx-15th-child-estate-battle/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news | url=https://www.usmagazine.com/celebrity-moms/news/dmx-welcomes-15th-child-find-out-the-babys-name-w435829/ | title=DMX Welcomes 15th Child: Find Out the Baby's Name | first=Rachel Paula | last=Abrahamson | work=[[Us Weekly]] | date=August 23, 2016 | access-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410051603/https://www.usmagazine.com/celebrity-moms/news/dmx-welcomes-15th-child-find-out-the-babys-name-w435829/ | url-status=live }}</ref>

DMX's final two children, twin boys, were born on December 5, 2019. Their mother is Pebbles Junell.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://bckonline.com/2021/04/25/meet-dmxs-twins-aidyn-and-kydn-simmons/|title=MEET DMX'S TWINS, AIDYN AND K'YDN SIMMONS|publisher=BCK Online|date=April 25, 2021|access-date=January 6, 2022|archive-date=January 7, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220107035424/https://bckonline.com/2021/04/25/meet-dmxs-twins-aidyn-and-kydn-simmons/|url-status=live}}</ref>

DMX [[Intestacy|did not have a will]].<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://hiphopwired.com/1047933/georgia-woman-claims-to-be-15th-child-of-dmx-in-estate-battle/ |title=Georgia Woman Claims To Be 15th Child Of DMX In Estate Battle |date=October 24, 2021 |access-date=October 24, 2021 |archive-date=October 24, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211024170721/https://hiphopwired.com/1047933/georgia-woman-claims-to-be-15th-child-of-dmx-in-estate-battle/ |url-status=live }}</ref> As a result, legal battles ensued in probate courts following his death.

===Finances and bankruptcies===
DMX filed for bankruptcy three times.<ref>{{Cite news | url=https://uproxx.com/movies/dmx-bankruptcy-again/ | title=DMX Is 'Drowning In Debt' And Has Reportedly Filed For Bankruptcy | first=DELENDA | last=JOSEPH | work=[[Uproxx]] | date=December 30, 2016 | access-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410051603/https://uproxx.com/movies/dmx-bankruptcy-again/ | url-status=live }}</ref> His first filing was on July 30, 2013, citing his child support obligations as his priority claim.<ref>{{cite web |last=Shafferman |first=Joel M. |title=B1 (Official Form 1) Voluntary Petition(04/13) |url=https://www.scribd.com/doc/156968070/Dmx-Petition |publisher=[[United States Bankruptcy Court]] |page=9 |date=July 2013 |access-date=September 9, 2017 |archive-date=March 7, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160307035632/https://www.scribd.com/doc/156968070/Dmx-Petition |url-status=live }}</ref> The filing was challenged by the [[United States Trustee Program]]<ref>{{cite web | last=Davis | first=Tracy Hope | url=https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/808821-dmx-ust.html | title=Memorandum of Law in Support of the United States Trustee's Motion for Order Converting the Case to One Under Chapter 7 of the Bankruptcy Code or Dismissing the Case | pages=3–10 | date=October 2013 | access-date=December 7, 2013 | archive-date=May 7, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210507092959/https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/808821-dmx-ust.html | url-status=live }}</ref> and was dismissed by the U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Manhattan on November 11, 2013.<ref>{{cite web | last=Palank | first=Jacqueline | title=Judge Dismisses DMX Bankruptcy | url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/BL-BANKB-19138 | work=[[The Wall Street Journal]] | date=November 11, 2013 | url-access=subscription | access-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410051602/https://www.wsj.com/articles/BL-BANKB-19138 | url-status=live }}</ref>

===Feud with Ja Rule===
During the 1990s, DMX formed a close bond with fellow up-and-coming rappers [[Jay-Z]] and [[Ja Rule]]. The three collaborated many times and formed a group known as [[Murder Inc. (rap group)|Murder Inc.]] The group was short-lived due to internal issues between DMX and Jay-Z. After the breakup of the group DMX disparaged Ja Rule, accusing him of being a copycat and drawing comparisons between himself and what he saw as Ja Rule stealing his signature "gruff" style of delivery. DMX would then release his second album ''[[Flesh Of My Flesh, Blood Of My Blood]]'' which contained the [[diss track]] "We Don't Give Fuck" that was directed towards Ja Rule and produced by [[Irv Gotti]]. Ja Rule would then respond in the song "We Different" from the compilation album [[Irv Gotti Presents: The Murderers]]. DMX would also go on to throw shots at Ja Rule in his song "Do You" from [[Funkmaster Flex]]'s mixtape [[The Mix Tape, Vol. IV]].

In 2002, DMX released his diss track "They Want War" on [[DJ Kay Slay]]'s mixtape Streetsweepers Presents The Regulator Pt. 5 The Final Chapter.<ref name=diss>{{Cite web|url=https://genius.com/Dmx-they-want-war-ja-rule-diss-lyrics|title=DMX – They Want War (Ja Rule Diss)|website=Genius.com|access-date=December 4, 2019|archive-date=April 13, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210413085006/https://genius.com/Dmx-they-want-war-ja-rule-diss-lyrics|url-status=live}}</ref> Ja Rule never responded directly but he went on to diss DMX in his songs "Fuck With Us" and "Connected" from his album ''[[The Last Temptation (Ja Rule album)|The Last Temptation]]''. The next year [[DMX (rapper)|DMX]] would take shots at Ja Rule in the song "Go To Sleep" with [[Eminem]] and [[Obie Trice]] from the ''[[Cradle 2 The Grave]]'' soundtrack. DMX would also release another diss track titled "Ruled Out" and he would also diss Ja Rule again in his song "[[Where the Hood At?]]". Ja Rule then dissed DMX in Caddillac Tah's song "Duck" and his own songs "[[Clap Back (song)|Clap Back]]" and "Blood In My Eye" from his album of the same name. However, as time passed and the feud faded into obscurity, DMX said that he wanted to officially bring it to an end when he was released from prison in 2005: "[[Irv Gotti|Gotti]] came to me in jail and said I want to make peace with you and him. I was like, 'Alright Gotti, let's do it."<ref>{{cite news | url=https://allhiphop.com/news/dmx-and-ja-rule-end-beef/ | title=DMX And Ja Rule End Beef | first=Greg | last=Watkins | work=[[AllHipHop]] | date=September 29, 2006 | access-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410051603/https://allhiphop.com/news/dmx-and-ja-rule-end-beef/ | url-status=live }}</ref> Despite this, DMX and Ja Rule did not officially end their feud until 2009, at VH1's [[Hip Hop Honors]].<ref>{{cite news | url=https://allhiphop.com/news/dmx-officially-ends-feud-with-ja-rule/ | title=Daily News –: DMX Officially Ends Feud With Ja Rule | first=Greg | last=Watkins | work=[[AllHipHop]] | date=September 24, 2009 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110118094620/http://www.allhiphop.com/stories/news/archive/2009/09/24/21952137.aspx |archive-date=January 18, 2011 }}</ref>

===Feud with Jay-Z===
When DMX partnered with [[Jay-Z]] and [[Ja Rule]] in [[Murder Inc. (rap group)|Murder Inc.]], there was a feud between the two, which also contributed to the failure of the group and working together. According to reports, the feud started in the early 1990s after a rap battle between the two, which led to DMX's disdain for Jay-Z.<ref name="MTV 2015-11-10">{{cite news |url=https://www.mtv.com/news/2424398/jay-z-irv-gotti-dmx-beef-battle/ |title=IRV GOTTI EXPLAINS WHY DMX ALWAYS HATED JAY Z |website=Mtv.com |date=2015-11-10 |access-date=2021-04-12 |archive-date=April 12, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210412141914/https://www.mtv.com/news/2424398/jay-z-irv-gotti-dmx-beef-battle/ }}</ref><ref name="Meaww 2021-04-08">{{cite news |url=https://meaww.com/dmx-past-feuds-rapper-beef-jay-z-ja-rule-murder-inc-irv-gotti |title=DMX's past feuds: How rapper's beef with Jay Z and Ja Rule shattered their dreams of Murder Inc |work=Meaww.com |date=2021-04-08 |access-date=2021-04-12 |archive-date=April 12, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210412141916/https://meaww.com/dmx-past-feuds-rapper-beef-jay-z-ja-rule-murder-inc-irv-gotti |url-status=live }}</ref> Prior to DMX's death, the feud, although it fizzled out over the years, it somewhat continued when DMX said in an Instagram video that he wanted to rap battle Jay-Z on [[Verzuz]].<ref name="Urban Islandz 2020-05-21">{{cite news |url=https://urbanislandz.com/2020/05/21/dmx-says-eminem-dont-want-no-smoke-insist-on-battling-jay-z/ |title=DMX Says Eminem Don't Want No Smoke, Insist On Battling JAY-Z |website=Urbanislandz.com |date=2020-05-21 |access-date=2021-04-12 |archive-date=April 12, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210412141914/https://urbanislandz.com/2020/05/21/dmx-says-eminem-dont-want-no-smoke-insist-on-battling-jay-z/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

==Legal issues==
[[File:DMX mug shot.jpg|thumb|DMX's June 2008 mugshot]]
DMX was in jail more than 30 times throughout his lifetime<ref>{{Cite news | url=https://www.gq.com/story/dmx-the-resurrection | title=Dark Man X: The Resurrection | first=MARK ANTHONY | last=GREEN | work=[[GQ]] | date=September 23, 2019 | access-date=April 11, 2021 | archive-date=April 14, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210414060727/https://www.gq.com/story/dmx-the-resurrection | url-status=live }}</ref> for various offenses, including criminal possession of a weapon, robbery, assault, carjacking, animal cruelty, reckless driving, driving under the influence, unlicensed driving, drug possession, probation violation, failure to pay child support, pretending to be a federal agent, and tax evasion.

=== 1986–1988 ===
DMX was first sent to prison in 1986 after stealing a dog from a junkyard. He served a few months in the juvenile unit of Woodfield Prison in Valhalla, New York. Later that year, he was sentenced to two years for another crime and sent to Industry Institution in upstate New York.<ref name=earl/> However, in December 1986, just a few days after starting his sentence, he and his cellmate successfully escaped the prison and DMX returned home until his mother forced him to turn himself in and finish his sentence, which he did at the McCormick Juvenile Detention Centre in Brooktondale, New York.<ref name=earl/> Simmons was sent to prison again in 1988 for [[carjacking]], and was later moved to a higher security prison after attempting to extort a fellow inmate for drugs. He was released in the summer of 1988.<ref name=earl/>

=== 1998–1999 ===
* When officers of the Fort Lee Police Department executed a search of his home in 1999, DMX promptly surrendered himself on weapons possession charges.<ref>{{Cite news |work=[[The New York Times]] |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1999/07/02/nyregion/metro-news-briefs-new-jersey-rap-performer-charged-with-weapon-possession.html |title=METRO NEWS BRIEFS: NEW JERSEY; Rap Performer Charged With Weapon Possession |agency=[[Associated Press]] |date=July 2, 1999 |url-access=subscription |access-date=July 29, 2018 |archive-date=June 12, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180612170842/https://www.nytimes.com/1999/07/02/nyregion/metro-news-briefs-new-jersey-rap-performer-charged-with-weapon-possession.html |url-status=live }}</ref>
* DMX faced a 1999 animal cruelty charge in Teaneck, New Jersey, after a dozen pit bulls were found at his home there;<ref>{{cite news | last=Pinto | first=Fausto Giovanny | url=https://www.nj.com/bergen/2016/09/the_hip-hop_homes_of_bergen_county.html | title=The hip-hop homes of Bergen County | work=[[NJ.com]] | date=September 27, 2016 | quote=DMX – Teaneck: The Ruff Ryder rapper and sometimes actor faced charges of animal cruelty after police found 13 pit bulls at his Teaneck home in 1999 | access-date=July 30, 2019 | archive-date=July 30, 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190730144550/https://www.nj.com/bergen/2016/09/the_hip-hop_homes_of_bergen_county.html | url-status=live }}</ref> the charge was dismissed after the performer agreed to accept responsibility and record public service announcements for an animal rights group.<ref name=held>{{Cite news |url=http://www.cnn.com/2008/SHOWBIZ/Music/05/09/dmx.dogs/ |title=Rapper DMX held on animal cruelty, drug charges |work=[[CNN]] |date=May 9, 2008 |access-date=August 5, 2015 |archive-date=July 12, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150712234011/http://www.cnn.com/2008/SHOWBIZ/Music/05/09/dmx.dogs/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

=== 2000–2005 Metro NY ===
* In 2000, DMX served a 15-day jail sentence for possession of marijuana.<ref>{{cite magazine| last=Vineyard| first=Jennifer|title=DMX Nabbed for Weed...Again| url=https://www.rollingstone.com/artists/dmx/articles/story/5925329/dmx_nabbed_for_weedagain| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070528094732/http://www.rollingstone.com/artists/dmx/articles/story/5925329/dmx_nabbed_for_weedagain| archive-date=May 28, 2007| magazine=[[Rolling Stone]]| date=May 5, 2000}}</ref>
* DMX served another jail sentence in 2001 for driving without a license and possession of marijuana. His appeal to reduce the sentence was denied; rather, he was charged with assault for throwing objects at prison guards.<ref>{{Cite web | url=http://www.courtminutes.maricopa.gov/docs/Criminal/052009/m3726256.pdf | title=PLEA AGREEMENT/CHANGE OF PLEA | publisher=[[Arizona Superior Court]] MARICOPA COUNTY | date=May 22, 2009 | access-date=May 30, 2009 | archive-date=August 6, 2009 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090806110431/http://www.courtminutes.maricopa.gov/docs/Criminal/052009/m3726256.pdf }}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine | last1=Dansby |first1=Andrew |last2=Uhelszki |first2=Jaan |title=Warrant Issued for DMX's Arrest |url=https://www.rollingstone.com/artists/dmx/articles/story/5924954/warrant_issued_for_dmxs_arrest |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071109182451/http://www.rollingstone.com/artists/dmx/articles/story/5924954/warrant_issued_for_dmxs_arrest |archive-date=November 9, 2007 |magazine=[[Rolling Stone]]| date=March 24, 2000}}</ref>
* In January 2002, DMX pleaded guilty in New Jersey to 13 counts of animal cruelty, two counts of maintaining a nuisance, and one count each of disorderly conduct and possession of drug paraphernalia. He eventually plea-bargained down to fines, probation, and community service and starred in public service announcements against the dangers of guns and animal abuse.<ref>{{cite news | last=Grossberg | first=Josh | title=DMX: Just Say No to Guns | url=https://www.eonline.com/news/42707/dmx-just-say-no-to-guns | work=[[E!]] | date=January 11, 2002 | access-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-date=August 10, 2017 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170810212154/http://www.eonline.com/news/42707/dmx-just-say-no-to-guns | url-status=live }}</ref>
* In June 2004, DMX was arrested at the [[John F. Kennedy International Airport]], on charges of cocaine possession, criminal impersonation, criminal possession of a weapon, criminal mischief, menacing, and driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, while claiming to be a federal agent and attempting to [[carjack]] a vehicle.<ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.chron.com/entertainment/article/DMX-accused-of-pretending-to-be-FBI-agent-to-1971615.php | title=DMX accused of pretending to be FBI agent to steal car | agency=[[Reuters]] | publisher=[[Houston Chronicle]] | date=June 25, 2004 | access-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410064015/https://www.chron.com/entertainment/article/DMX-accused-of-pretending-to-be-FBI-agent-to-1971615.php | url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news | url=https://www.today.com/popculture/rapper-dmx-faces-drugs-weapons-charges-wbna5293591 | title=Rapper DMX faces drugs, weapons charges | agency=[[Associated Press]] | publisher=[[Today (American TV program)|Today]] | date=June 25, 2004 | access-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410064015/https://www.today.com/popculture/rapper-dmx-faces-drugs-weapons-charges-wbna5293591 | url-status=live }}</ref> He was given a conditional discharge on December 8, 2004, but pleaded guilty on October 25, 2005, to violating [[parole]].<ref>{{Cite news |last=Harris |first=Chris |url=http://www.mtv.com/news/1512223/dmx-pleads-guilty-will-likely-spend-40-days-in-prison/ |title=DMX Pleads Guilty, Will Likely Spend 40 Days In Prison |work=[[MTV News]] |date=October 25, 2005 |access-date=April 10, 2021 |archive-date=April 10, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410064018/http://www.mtv.com/news/1512223/dmx-pleads-guilty-will-likely-spend-40-days-in-prison/ }}</ref>
* On November 18, 2005, DMX was sentenced to 70 days in jail at [[Riker's Island]] for violating parole; the lateness charge added a 10-day extension to the original 60-day sentence.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Tecson|first1=Brandee J.|last2=Harris|first2=Chris|title=DMX Sentenced To 70 Days Behind Bars|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/1514063/dmx-sentenced-to-70-days-behind-bars/|work=[[MTV News]]|date=November 18, 2005|access-date=April 10, 2021|archive-date=April 10, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410064015/http://www.mtv.com/news/1514063/dmx-sentenced-to-70-days-behind-bars/}}</ref> DMX was released early (for "[[Good conduct time|good behavior]]") on December 30, 2005.<ref>{{cite news |last=Moss |first=Corey |title=DMX Released From Prison Early For Good Behavior |url=http://www.mtv.com/news/1519913/dmx-released-from-prison-early-for-good-behavior/ |work=[[MTV News]] |date=January 6, 2006 |access-date=April 10, 2021 |archive-date=April 10, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410065517/http://www.mtv.com/news/1519913/dmx-released-from-prison-early-for-good-behavior/ }}</ref>

=== 2007 ===
* In 2007, DMX's home in Arizona was raided on reports of animal cruelty to his 12 pitbulls on the property.<ref>{{cite web |title=DMX Animal Cruelty Report Results |url=https://www.tmz.com/2007/10/06/dmx-animal-cruelty-report-results/ |work=[[TMZ]] |date=October 6, 2007 |access-date=April 10, 2021 |archive-date=April 10, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410051603/https://www.tmz.com/2007/10/06/dmx-animal-cruelty-report-results/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Simmons maintained that any neglect was the result of a caretaker who was not taking proper supervision of the dogs.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2007-08-26 |title=DMX - Where Your Dogs At? |url=https://www.tmz.com/2007/08/25/dmx-where-your-dogs-at/ |access-date=2024-12-19 |website=TMZ |language=en}}</ref>

=== 2008–2011 Arizona and California ===
* On May 9, 2008, DMX was arrested on drug and animal cruelty charges after attempting to barricade himself inside his home in Cave Creek, Arizona.<ref name=held/>
* DMX pleaded guilty to charges of drug possession, theft, and animal cruelty stemming from an August 2007 drug raid as well as the May 2008 arrest, at a hearing on December 30, 2008; he was sentenced to 90 days in jail on January 31, 2009.<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/09/AR2008050902755.html |title=DMX Arrested, Again |newspaper=[[The Washington Post]] |date=May 10, 2008 |access-date=August 26, 2017 |archive-date=August 10, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170810212220/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/09/AR2008050902755.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Rapper DMX pleads guilty to drug, theft charges |url=http://tucsoncitizen.com/morgue/2008/12/31/106376-rapper-dmx-pleads-guilty-to-drug-theft-charges/ | work=[[Tucson Citizen]] |date=December 31, 2008 |agency=[[Associated Press]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121104082950/http://tucsoncitizen.com/morgue/2008/12/31/106376-rapper-dmx-pleads-guilty-to-drug-theft-charges/ |archive-date=November 4, 2012 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news| title=US rapper DMX given jail sentence| url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/entertainment/7862537.stm| work=[[BBC News]]| date=January 31, 2009| access-date=April 10, 2021| archive-date=April 10, 2021| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410064015/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/entertainment/7862537.stm| url-status=live}}</ref>
* On May 22, 2009, DMX entered a plea agreement/change of plea and pleaded guilty to attempted aggravated assault in jail.
* After serving four out of six months for violating drug probation, DMX was released from jail on July 6, 2010.<ref>{{cite news |last=Langhorne |first=Cyrus | url=https://www.xxlmag.com/dmx-released-from-az-jail-lawyer-confirms/ | title=DMX Released From AZ Jail| work=[[XXL (magazine)|XXL]] | date=July 6, 2010 | url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100708195046/http://www.xxlmag.com/online/?p=84532 | archive-date=July 8, 2010}}</ref> That day, a television pilot was filmed to portray his road to recovery; however, DMX was arrested three weeks later and the pilot did not evolve into a series.
* On July 27, 2010, DMX turned himself in to Los Angeles Metropolitan Court for a reckless driving charge he received in 2002. He was sentenced to serve ninety days in jail.<ref>{{cite news |last=Reid |first=Shaheem |url=http://www.mtv.com/news/1644508/dmx-says-turning-himself-in-was-the-best-decision/ |title=DMX Says Turning Himself In Was The 'Best' Decision |work=[[MTV News]] |date=July 27, 2010 |access-date=April 10, 2021 |archive-date=April 10, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410064015/http://www.mtv.com/news/1644508/dmx-says-turning-himself-in-was-the-best-decision/ }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.billboard.com/articles/news/957181/dmx-heads-back-to-jail |title=DMX Heads Back to Jail |agency=[[Associated Press]] |magazine=[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]] |date=September 14, 2009 |access-date=April 10, 2021 |archive-date=April 10, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410064023/https://www.billboard.com/articles/news/957181/dmx-heads-back-to-jail |url-status=live }}</ref>
* On November 19, 2010, DMX was arrested in Maricopa County, Arizona, on charges of violating probation for a February 24, 2009, aggravated assault on an officer while he was incarcerated. On December 20, 2010, DMX was moved to the Mental Health Unit of the Arizona Alhambra State Prison,<ref>{{cite news | first=Niki | last=D'Andrea | url=https://www.phoenixnewtimes.com/news/dmx-moved-to-mental-health-unit-at-arizona-state-prison-complex-6645350 | title=DMX Moved to Mental-Health Unit at Arizona State Prison Complex | work=[[Phoenix New Times]] | date=December 27, 2010 | access-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410064015/https://www.phoenixnewtimes.com/news/dmx-moved-to-mental-health-unit-at-arizona-state-prison-complex-6645350 | url-status=live }}</ref> and released on July 18, 2011.<ref>{{cite web | url= https://corrections.az.gov/public-resources/inmate-datasearch | title= Information for Inmate 259307 SIMMONS | date= April 11, 2014 | publisher= [[Arizona Department of Corrections]] | access-date= April 10, 2021 | archive-date= September 28, 2011 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110928122716/http://www.azcorrections.gov/inmate_datasearch/results_Minh.aspx?InmateNumber=259307&LastName=SIMMONS&FNMI=E&SearchType=SearchInet&ReportLength=TOP_5 }}</ref>
* On August 24, 2011, DMX was arrested for the tenth time in Maricopa County, this time for speeding, recorded at {{convert|102|mph}} in a {{convert|65|mph|adj=on}} zone, reckless driving, and driving with a suspended license. While DMX admitted to speeding, he claimed he was driving {{convert|85|mph}}.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.tmz.com/2011/08/25/dmx-arrested-reckless-driving-suspended-revoked-license-criminal-speeding-chrysler-300-released-bond/ |title=DMX Arrested Again ... Allegedly Topped 100 MPH |work=[[TMZ]] |date=August 25, 2011 |access-date=April 10, 2021 |archive-date=April 10, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410064015/https://www.tmz.com/2011/08/25/dmx-arrested-reckless-driving-suspended-revoked-license-criminal-speeding-chrysler-300-released-bond/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

=== 2013 South Carolina ===
* On February 13, 2013, DMX was arrested in Spartanburg, South Carolina, for driving without a driver's license.<ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.reuters.com/article/entertainment-us-usa-rapper-arrest/rapper-dmx-arrested-on-driving-charges-at-south-carolina-airport-idUSBRE9A40B420131105 | title=Rapper DMX arrested on driving charges at South Carolina airport | first=Eric M. | last=Johnson | work=[[Reuters]] | date=November 5, 2013 | access-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410064023/https://www.reuters.com/article/entertainment-us-usa-rapper-arrest/rapper-dmx-arrested-on-driving-charges-at-south-carolina-airport-idUSBRE9A40B420131105 | url-status=live }}</ref>
* On July 26, 2013, DMX was arrested again in Greenville County, South Carolina, and charged with driving under the influence of alcohol as well as driving without a license.<ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.latimes.com/entertainment/gossip/la-et-mg-dmx-arrested-dui-license-seatbelt-20130726-story.html | title=Rapper DMX arrested again; DUI, no license, seat-belt charges | first=NARDINE | last=SAAD | work=[[Los Angeles Times]] | date=July 26, 2013 | access-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410064023/https://www.latimes.com/entertainment/gossip/la-et-mg-dmx-arrested-dui-license-seatbelt-20130726-story.html | url-status=live }}</ref>
* On August 20, 2013, DMX was arrested again in Greer, South Carolina, during a traffic stop after a car he was a passenger in made an improper u-turn. He was arrested due to an outstanding warrant for driving under suspension. Four packages of marijuana were also found in the vehicle, and he along with the driver were cited for them.<ref>{{Cite news | url=https://www.baltimoresun.com/entertainment/la-et-mg-dmx-arrested-video-weed-20130821-story.html | title=Rapper DMX arrested again; that makes the third time this year | first=NARDINE | last=SAAD | work=[[The Baltimore Sun]] | date=August 21, 2013 | url-access=limited | access-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410064025/https://www.baltimoresun.com/entertainment/la-et-mg-dmx-arrested-video-weed-20130821-story.html | url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news | url=https://www.tmz.com/2013/08/21/dmx-arrested-south-carolina/ | title=DMX ARRESTED IN SOUTH CAROLINA [MUG SHOT] | work=[[TMZ]] | date=August 21, 2013 | access-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410064015/https://www.tmz.com/2013/08/21/dmx-arrested-south-carolina/ | url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.cnn.com/2013/08/21/showbiz/dmx-marijuana-arrest | title=DMX arrested again by South Carolina police | first=Alan | last=Duke | work=[[CNN]] | date=August 21, 2013 | access-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410064015/https://www.cnn.com/2013/08/21/showbiz/dmx-marijuana-arrest | url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Paine |first=Jake |url=https://hiphopdx.com/news/id.25137/title.dmx-arrested-in-south-carolina-again-video-released |title=DMX Arrested In South Carolina Again, Video Released | work=[[HipHopDX]] |date=August 21, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140220173832/http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.25137/title.dmx-arrested-in-south-carolina-again-video-released |archive-date=February 20, 2014 |url-status=live}}</ref>
* On November 4, 2013, DMX was again arrested by the Greenville–Spartanburg International Airport police near Greer, South Carolina, after police, who were familiar with his prior arrests, noticed DMX behind the wheel of a vehicle at the terminal. DMX was booked on charges of driving with a suspended license, having an uninsured vehicle, and driving an unlicensed vehicle. He was subsequently released after spending three hours in jail.<ref>{{cite web|title=Rapper DMX arrested at Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport|url=http://www.goupstate.com/article/20131104/articles/131109869?google_editors_picks=true&tc=ar|work=[[Spartanburg Herald-Journal]]|access-date=November 6, 2013|archive-date=December 11, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131211232227/http://www.goupstate.com/article/20131104/articles/131109869?google_editors_picks=true&tc=ar|url-status=live}}</ref>

=== 2015 New York ===
* On April 5, 2015, a man accused DMX of robbing him.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Man Claims Rapper DMX Robbed Him at Newark Gas Station: Police |url=https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/rapper-dmx-accused-of-robbery-newark-pd/661267/ |website=NBC New York |date=April 5, 2015 |access-date=April 10, 2021 |archive-date=April 10, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410040001/https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/rapper-dmx-accused-of-robbery-newark-pd/661267/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
* On June 26, 2015, DMX was arrested in New York and charged in Newark, New Jersey, with robbery and failure to pay child support.<ref>{{Cite news | url=https://hiphopdx.com/news/id.34436/title.dmx-arrested-on-robbery-child-support-charges | title=DMX Sentenced On Child Support Charges | first=Soren | last=Baker | work=[[HipHopDX]] | date=July 19, 2015 | access-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410043804/https://hiphopdx.com/news/id.34436/title.dmx-arrested-on-robbery-child-support-charges | url-status=live }}</ref>
* On July 14, 2015, DMX was sentenced to six months in jail for failure to pay $400,000 in child support.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.theguardian.com/music/2015/jul/15/dmx-jailed-after-failing-to-pay-400000-in-child-support |title=DMX jailed after failing to pay $400,000 in child support |work=[[The Guardian]] |date=July 15, 2015 |access-date=December 14, 2016 |archive-date=May 20, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170520172807/https://www.theguardian.com/music/2015/jul/15/dmx-jailed-after-failing-to-pay-400000-in-child-support |url-status=live }}</ref>
* On December 14, 2015, an arrest warrant was issued for DMX after he missed a court hearing to address child support issues with his ex-wife Tashera Simmons and their four children.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.tmz.com/2015/12/15/dmx-arrest-warrant-child-support/ |title=DMX – Arrest Warrant Is a Mix-Up ... Thought I Was Cleared to Party |work=[[TMZ]] |date=December 15, 2015 |access-date=April 10, 2021 |archive-date=April 10, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410064018/https://www.tmz.com/2015/12/15/dmx-arrest-warrant-child-support/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

=== 2017–2019: Tax fraud conviction ===
In July 2017, DMX was charged with 14 federal counts of tax fraud.<ref>{{Cite magazine | first=Daniel | last=Kreps | url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/dmx-pleads-guilty-to-17-million-tax-fraud-w513020 | title=DMX Pleads Guilty to $1.7 Million Tax Fraud | magazine=[[Rolling Stone]] | date=December 1, 2017 | access-date=March 29, 2018 | archive-date=March 29, 2018 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180329121800/https://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/dmx-pleads-guilty-to-17-million-tax-fraud-w513020 }}</ref> Federal prosecutors charged him with failing to file [[income tax returns]] from 2010 to 2015 (a period when he earned at least $2.3&nbsp;million). DMX pleaded guilty to a single count of tax fraud in November 2017.<ref name="Moynihan">{{cite news | first=Colin | last=Moynihan | url=https://www.nytimes.com/2018/03/28/arts/judge-gives-dmx-a-year-in-prison-and-a-chance-to-be-heard-musically.html | title=Judge Gives DMX a Year in Prison and a Chance to Be Heard, Musically | work=[[The New York Times]] | date=March 28, 2018 | url-access=subscription | access-date=March 29, 2018 | archive-date=March 29, 2018 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180329030122/https://www.nytimes.com/2018/03/28/arts/judge-gives-dmx-a-year-in-prison-and-a-chance-to-be-heard-musically.html | url-status=live }}</ref> DMX was originally free pending sentencing but was remanded to jail in January 2018 after leaving a drug treatment program ordered by the court and relapsing with cocaine and oxycodone.<ref>{{cite news | first=Stephen Rex | last=Brown | url=https://www.nydailynews.com/news/crime/dmx-custody-leaving-mandatory-drug-program-article-1.3788058 | title=DMX taken into custody for ditching court-ordered drug treatment program, relapsing with cocaine | work=[[New York Daily News]] | date=January 30, 2018 | access-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410064015/https://www.nydailynews.com/news/crime/dmx-custody-leaving-mandatory-drug-program-article-1.3788058 | url-status=live }}</ref> In March 2018, Judge [[Jed S. Rakoff]] sentenced DMX to one year in prison followed by three years of supervised release. The court also ordered DMX to pay $2.29&nbsp;million in restitution to the government.<ref name="Moynihan"/> He was released from prison on January 25, 2019.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://thesource.com/2019/09/19/dmx-def-jam/|title=DMX INKS NEW DEF JAM DEAL|date=September 19, 2019|access-date=November 14, 2019|website=[[The Source (magazine)|The Source]]|author=((Miss2Bees))|archive-date=November 10, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191110060305/http://thesource.com/2019/09/19/dmx-def-jam/|url-status=live}}</ref>

==Health problems and death==
Simmons claimed he became addicted to [[crack cocaine]] when he was 14 years old, after Ready Ron tricked him into smoking a marijuana cigarette laced with the drug.<ref>{{Cite AV media | url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qwcbG1rIp8Y |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211211/qwcbG1rIp8Y| archive-date=2021-12-11 |url-status=live| title=DMX On Getting Tricked Into Smoking Crack At 14 By His Rap Mentor | work=[[Uproxx]] | via=[[YouTube]]}}{{cbignore}}</ref><ref name=curse/> Ready Ron denied this claim in a social media post after Simmons's death.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Lawson |first1=Amira |title=Ready Ron Claims He Didn't Expose DMX to Drugs At 14 - The Source |url=https://thesource.com/2021/04/16/ready-ron-claims-he-didnt-expose-dmx-to-drugs-at-14/ |website=The Source |access-date=15 January 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240115012239/https://thesource.com/2021/04/16/ready-ron-claims-he-didnt-expose-dmx-to-drugs-at-14/ |archive-date=15 January 2024 |date=16 April 2021}}</ref>

Simmons entered [[drug rehabilitation]] several times including in 2002, 2017, and 2019, when he canceled concerts.<ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/dmx-check-drug-rehab-bailing-152024760.html | title=DMX Check Into Drug Rehab After Bailing On Def Jam 35th Anniversary | first=Mike | last=Walters | work=[[Yahoo!]] | date=October 13, 2019 | access-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410064023/https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/dmx-check-drug-rehab-bailing-152024760.html | url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite magazine | url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/dmx-rehab-cancels-concerts-898349/ | title=DMX Returns to Rehab, Cancels Concerts | magazine=[[Rolling Stone]] | date=October 13, 2019 | access-date=April 11, 2021 | archive-date=April 13, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210413083407/https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/dmx-rehab-cancels-concerts-898349/ | url-status=live }}</ref>

On February 10, 2016, Simmons was found unresponsive in a parking lot at a Ramada Inn in Yonkers, New York.<ref name=lifeless>{{cite news | url=https://www.fox61.com/article/entertainment/arts/cas-artist/rapper-dmx-found-lying-lifeless-in-ny-hotel-parking-lot/520-67b703b2-185f-41ed-a48b-302805a9e6dc | title=Rapper DMX found lifeless in NY hotel parking lot | work=[[WTIC-TV]] | date=February 9, 2016 | access-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410064017/https://www.fox61.com/article/entertainment/arts/cas-artist/rapper-dmx-found-lying-lifeless-in-ny-hotel-parking-lot/520-67b703b2-185f-41ed-a48b-302805a9e6dc | url-status=live }}</ref> He was resuscitated by first responders and intravenously given [[Naloxone|Narcan]], an opioid-reversal drug; he responded quickly and became semi-conscious.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/music/dmx-rushed-hospital-collapses-pulse-article-1.2525496 | title=DMX rushed to hospital after he stops breathing, collapses without a pulse after allegedly ingesting 'some sort of substance' | first1=Edgar | last1=Sandoval | first2=Peter | last2=Sblendorio | first3=Nancy | last3=Dillon | work=[[New York Daily News]] | date=February 9, 2016 | access-date=April 10, 2021 | archive-date=February 9, 2016 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160209215851/https://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/music/dmx-rushed-hospital-collapses-pulse-article-1.2525496 | url-status=live }}</ref> Simmons was subsequently rushed to the hospital. A witness said he ingested a powdered substance before collapsing,<ref>{{cite web |last1=Dickson |first1=Caitlin |title=Rapper DMX revived by Narcan — the opioid antidote that stops an overdose in its tracks |url=https://news.yahoo.com/rapper-dmx-revived-by-narcan%E2%80%94the-opioid-antitdote-that-stops-an-overdose-in-its-tracks-005115193.html |website=Yahoo News |access-date=15 January 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240115013913/https://news.yahoo.com/rapper-dmx-revived-by-narcan%E2%80%94the-opioid-antitdote-that-stops-an-overdose-in-its-tracks-005115193.html |archive-date=15 January 2024 |date=11 February 2016}}</ref> but police found no illegal substances on the property.<ref name=lifeless/> Simmons stated that it was from an asthma attack.<ref name=lifeless/>
[[File:DMX Shrine in White Plains, New York.jpg|thumb|DMX shrine outside White Plains Hospital, where he died]]
On April 2, 2021, at approximately 11:00pm,<ref>{{Cite news|last=Ly|first=Laura|date=April 3, 2021|title=Rapper DMX is hospitalized and on life support following heart attack, longtime lawyer says|publisher=[[CNN]]|url=https://www.cnn.com/2021/04/03/us/dmx-hospitalized-life-support-heart-attack/index.html|url-status=live|access-date=April 3, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210404022039/https://www.cnn.com/2021/04/03/us/dmx-hospitalized-life-support-heart-attack/index.html|archive-date=April 4, 2021}}</ref> Simmons was rushed to [[White Plains Hospital]], where he was reported to be in critical condition following a heart attack at his home possibly resulting from a drug overdose.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Treisman |first=Rachel |date=April 4, 2021|title=Rapper DMX On Life Support Following Heart Attack |publisher=[[NPR]]| url=https://www.npr.org/2021/04/04/984133546/rapper-dmx-on-life-support-following-heart-attack|url-status=live|access-date=April 4, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210404142832/https://www.npr.org/2021/04/04/984133546/rapper-dmx-on-life-support-following-heart-attack|archive-date=April 4, 2021}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|date=April 3, 2021|title=Rapper DMX in hospital after heart attack|publisher=[[BBC News]]|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-56627823|url-status=live|access-date=April 4, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210403224207/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-56627823|archive-date=April 3, 2021}}</ref> Simmons suffered [[cerebral hypoxia]] as paramedics attempted to resuscitate him for 30 minutes.<ref>{{Cite news |last1=Shafer |first1=Ellise |last2=Aswad |first2=Jem|date=April 3, 2021|title=DMX Hospitalized After Suffering Heart Attack |work=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]] |url=https://variety.com/2021/music/news/dmx-drug-overdose-1234943647/|url-status=live|access-date=April 4, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210404062045/https://variety.com/2021/music/news/dmx-drug-overdose-1234943647/ |archive-date=April 4, 2021}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|last=Alter |first=Rebecca|date=April 3, 2021|title=DMX Remains On Life Support Following Overdose|work=[[Vulture (magazine)|Vulture]] |url=https://www.vulture.com/2021/04/dmx-is-in-critical-care-after-suffering-an-overdose.html|url-status=live|access-date=April 4, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210404001849/https://www.vulture.com/2021/04/dmx-is-in-critical-care-after-suffering-an-overdose.html|archive-date=April 4, 2021}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|date=April 3, 2021|title=Prognosis 'Not Looking Good' after OD|work=[[TMZ]]|url=https://www.tmz.com/2021/04/03/dmx-suffers-od-overdose-hospital-grave-condition/|url-status=live|access-date=April 4, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210404055001/https://www.tmz.com/2021/04/03/dmx-suffers-od-overdose-hospital-grave-condition/|archive-date=April 4, 2021}}</ref> The next day, his attorney Murray Richman confirmed Simmons was on life support.<ref>{{Cite news |last1=Collins |first1=Dave |last2=Landrum |first2=Jonathan Jr. |date=April 3, 2021 |title=Rapper DMX on life support after heart attack, lawyer says |url=https://apnews.com/article/new-york-white-plains-hip-hop-and-rap-music-dmx-9e2162cbbaae2ade1ef3131fbab55667 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210404020827/https://apnews.com/article/new-york-white-plains-hip-hop-and-rap-music-dmx-9e2162cbbaae2ade1ef3131fbab55667 |archive-date=April 4, 2021 |access-date=April 3, 2021 |work=[[Associated Press]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite magazine |last=Kreps |first=Daniel |date=April 3, 2021 |title=DMX on Life Support Following Heart Attack |url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/dmx-hospitalized-new-york-1150828/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210404020743/https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/dmx-hospitalized-new-york-1150828/ |archive-date=April 4, 2021 |access-date=April 3, 2021 |magazine=[[Rolling Stone]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last1=Hoell |first1=Rob |last2=Cook |first2=Lauren |last3=Pittman |first3=Ava |last4=Lepore |first4=Stephen M. |date=April 3, 2021 |title=DMX hospitalized after heart attack amid reports of overdose: lawyer |url=https://pix11.com/entertainment/dmx-hospitalized-after-drug-overdose-heart-attack-reports/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210404024725/https://pix11.com/entertainment/dmx-hospitalized-after-drug-overdose-heart-attack-reports/ |archive-date=April 4, 2021 |access-date=April 4, 2021 |publisher=[[WPIX]]}}</ref> Simmons's former manager, Nakia Walker, said he was in a "vegetative state" with "lung and brain failure and no current brain activity".<ref>{{Cite news|last=Jiménez |first=Jesus|date=April 4, 2021|title=DMX on Life Support in 'Vegetative State,' Manager Says|work=[[The New York Times]]|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2021/04/04/arts/dmx-hospitalized.html|url-status=live|access-date=April 4, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210404211503/https://www.nytimes.com/2021/04/04/arts/dmx-hospitalized.html|archive-date=April 4, 2021}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|last=Dahir|first=Ikran|date=April 4, 2021|title=DMX Has Been Hospitalized And Is Unresponsive, His Former Manager Says|work=[[BuzzFeed News]]|url=https://www.buzzfeednews.com/article/ikrd/dmx-hospital-unresponsive-life-support|url-status=live|access-date=April 4, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210405000914/https://www.buzzfeednews.com/article/ikrd/dmx-hospital-unresponsive-life-support|archive-date=April 5, 2021}}</ref> His manager, [[SRC Records|SRC]] and [[Loud Records]] founder [[Steve Rifkind]], stated Simmons was [[coma]]tose and that he was set to undergo tests to determine his brain's functionality and his family will "determine what's best from there".<ref>{{Cite news|last1=Burke| first1=Minyvonne|last2=Dasrath |first2=Diana|date=April 7, 2021|title=DMX Remains in Coma, Will Undergo Brain Function Tests: Manager|publisher=[[NBC News]]|url=https://www.nbcnews.com/pop-culture/pop-culture-news/doctors-perform-brain-function-tests-rapper-dmx-remains-life-support-n1263294|url-status=live|access-date=April 7, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210407161853/https://www.nbcnews.com/pop-culture/pop-culture-news/doctors-perform-brain-function-tests-rapper-dmx-remains-life-support-n1263294|archive-date=April 7, 2021}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|last=Cramer|first=Maria |date=April 7, 2021|title=DMX, in a Coma, Is Set to Undergo Brain Function Tests |work=[[The New York Times]] |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2021/04/07/arts/music/dmx-life-support.html|url-status=live |url-access=limited|access-date=April 7, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210407191633/https://www.nytimes.com/2021/04/07/arts/music/dmx-life-support.html|archive-date=April 7, 2021}}</ref>

On the morning of April 9, 2021, Simmons lost functionality in multiple essential organs, reportedly his liver, kidneys, and lungs,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.tmz.com/2021/04/09/dmx-organ-failure-life-support/|title=DMX's Organs Failing, Family Says He's In His Final Hours|website=TMZ|date=April 9, 2021 |access-date=April 14, 2021|archive-date=May 16, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210516032204/https://www.tmz.com/2021/04/09/dmx-organ-failure-life-support/|url-status=live}}</ref> and was pronounced dead shortly after, at age 50. It was revealed on July 8 by the Westchester County Medical Examiner's Office that Simmons's official cause of death was a heart attack.<ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://www.xxlmag.com/dmx-dead/|title=DMX Dead at 50|first=C. Vernon II|last=Coleman|magazine=[[XXL (magazine)|XXL]]|date=April 9, 2021|access-date=April 9, 2021|archive-date=April 11, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210411202523/https://www.xxlmag.com/dmx-dead/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.vulture.com/2021/07/dmx-cause-of-death.html |date=July 8, 2021 |title=DMX's Official Cause of Death Revealed |first=Victoria |last=Bekiempis |work=[[Vulture.com]] |access-date=October 3, 2021 |archive-date=October 6, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211006095011/https://www.vulture.com/2021/07/dmx-cause-of-death.html |url-status=live }}</ref>

== Legacy ==
{{Quote box|width=25em|align=right|"Throughout his nearly three-decade career, DMX came to embody passion, rawness, and pure emotional honesty like few hip-hop artists ever have, barking his way through hits like "[[Ruff Ryders' Anthem]]" and "[[Get at Me Dog]]" one moment, and repenting and philosophizing on tracks like "[[Slippin'|Slippin]]'" the next. His was a decidedly anti-commercial approach, but it worked, and it made him the genre's first new superstar in the wake of the killings of [[Tupac Shakur]] and [[the Notorious B.I.G.]] To this day, few have been able to reach the heights he did—he's the only rapper to have his first five studio albums debut at no. 1, and he was the first living hip-hop artist to have two projects go [[RIAA certification|platinum]] in the same year."<ref>{{Cite web|last=Sayles|first=Justin|date=2021-04-09|title=DMX Leaves a Legacy of Passion, Unparalleled Success, and Pain|url=https://www.theringer.com/2021/4/9/22374949/dmx-obituary-earl-simmons|access-date=2021-04-14|website=The Ringer|language=en|archive-date=April 14, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210414180005/https://www.theringer.com/2021/4/9/22374949/dmx-obituary-earl-simmons|url-status=live}}</ref>
|source = — [[The Ringer (website)|The Ringer]] wrote upon DMX's death }}

Various celebrities paid tribute through outlets like social media including former NFL player [[Torrey Smith]], [[LeBron James]], [[Shaquille O'Neal]], [[Eminem]], [[Gabrielle Union]] (who co-starred with DMX in the 2003 film ''[[Cradle 2 the Grave]]'', along with [[Jet Li]] (who also paid tribute)), Backstreet Boys member [[AJ McLean]],<ref>{{cite tweet |url=https://twitter.com/aj_mclean/status/1380648828307562496 |title=Today, the world mourns the loss of @DMX, a one of a kind rapper & songwriter who touched the hearts of many with his music. |number=1380648828307562496 |user=aj_mclean |author-link=AJ McLean |last=McLean |first=AJ |date=April 9, 2021 |access-date=March 7, 2023}}</ref> [[Wyclef Jean]],<ref>{{cite tweet |url=https://twitter.com/wyclef/status/1380644947154632710?lang=en |title=X. We will never ever forget. |number=1380644947154632710 |user=wyclef |author-link=Wyclef Jean |first=Wyclef |last=Jean |date=April 9, 2021 |access-date=March 7, 2023}}</ref> [[Swizz Beatz]] (who DMX collaborated with including on the hit single, "[[Ruff Ryders' Anthem]]"),<ref>{{Cite web|last=Yoo|first=Noah|title=Swizz Beatz Remembers DMX: "He Lived His Life for Everyone Else"|url=https://pitchfork.com/news/swizz-beatz-remembers-dmx-he-lived-his-life-for-everyone-else/|access-date=2021-04-14|website=Pitchfork|date=April 10, 2021|language=en-us|archive-date=April 11, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210411114319/https://pitchfork.com/news/swizz-beatz-remembers-dmx-he-lived-his-life-for-everyone-else/|url-status=live}}</ref> [[Eve (rapper)|Eve]] and [[Missy Elliott]].<ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-04-09|title=DMX tributes pour in from LeBron James and others in the sports world|url=https://www.espn.com/espn/story/_/id/31222736/dmx-tributes-pour-lebron-james-others-sports-world|access-date=2021-04-14|website=ESPN.com|language=en|archive-date=April 11, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210411050451/https://www.espn.com/espn/story/_/id/31222736/dmx-tributes-pour-lebron-james-others-sports-world|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=DMX Dead at 50: Gabrielle Union, Eve, Missy Elliott and More Honor Late Star — 'You Are 1 of 1'|url=https://people.com/music/dmx-dead-age-50-celebrities-pay-tribute-to-rapper/|access-date=2021-04-14|website=PEOPLE.com|language=en|archive-date=April 13, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210413021054/https://people.com/music/dmx-dead-age-50-celebrities-pay-tribute-to-rapper/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=DMX Dead at 50 a Week After Star Suffered Heart Attack: 'A Warrior Who Fought Till the Very End'|url=https://people.com/music/dmx-dead-age-50-after-suffering-heart-attack/|access-date=2021-04-14|website=PEOPLE.com|language=en|archive-date=April 13, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210413021615/https://people.com/music/dmx-dead-age-50-after-suffering-heart-attack/|url-status=live}}</ref> Other tributors included [[Kelly Rowland]], [[Chris Brown]], [[Lil Durk]], [[Big Sean]], [[Polo G]], [[Metro Boomin]], [[The Weeknd]], [[T.I.]], [[Jim Jones (rapper)|Jim Jones]], [[Busta Rhymes]], [[Viola Davis]], [[Mary J. Blige]], [[Al Sharpton]], [[Angie Martinez]], [[Ciara]], [[Jennifer Love Hewitt]], and various others.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Daly |first=Rhian |date=2021-04-11 |title=Entertainment world pays tribute to DMX: "We just lost an absolute legend" |url=https://www.nme.com/news/music/music-world-pays-tribute-to-dmx-2917583 |access-date=2023-10-16 |website=NME |language=en-GB |archive-date=October 23, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231023025412/https://www.nme.com/news/music/music-world-pays-tribute-to-dmx-2917583 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Zhan |first=Jennifer |date=2021-04-09 |title=Missy Elliott, LeBron James, and More Celebrities Pay Tribute to DMX |url=https://www.vulture.com/2021/04/celebrities-pay-tribute-to-dmx-after-rappers-death.html |access-date=2023-10-16 |website=Vulture |language=en |archive-date=October 23, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231023025412/https://www.vulture.com/2021/04/celebrities-pay-tribute-to-dmx-after-rappers-death.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Ferme |first=Antonio |date=2021-04-11 |title=Snoop Dogg, Swizz Beatz, Many More Pay Tribute to DMX |url=https://variety.com/2021/music/news/dmx-dead-reactions-1234948055/ |access-date=2023-10-16 |website=Variety |language=en-US |archive-date=October 23, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231023025412/https://variety.com/2021/music/news/dmx-dead-reactions-1234948055/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Tributes from the world of hip-hop pour in after DMX's passing |url=https://www.thefader.com/2021/04/09/dmx-death-tributes |access-date=2023-10-16 |website=The FADER |language=en |archive-date=October 23, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231023025412/https://www.thefader.com/2021/04/09/dmx-death-tributes |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-04-09 |title=Gabrielle Union, Missy Elliott, Eve & More Celebrities Pay Tribute To DMX |url=https://www.bustle.com/entertainment/celebrities-pay-tribute-to-dmx-died |access-date=2023-10-16 |website=Bustle |language=en |archive-date=October 23, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231023025412/https://www.bustle.com/entertainment/celebrities-pay-tribute-to-dmx-died |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=DMX death: Celebrities pay tribute to the late rapper with heartfelt posts |url=https://www.capitalxtra.com/news/dmx-dead-age-50-cardiac-arrest-celebrity-tributes/ |access-date=2023-10-16 |website=Capital XTRA |language=en |archive-date=October 23, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231023025412/https://www.capitalxtra.com/news/dmx-dead-age-50-cardiac-arrest-celebrity-tributes/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

A "Celebration of Life" took place on April 24, 2021, led by [[Kanye West]]'s [[Sunday Service Choir]]. They performed several songs in honor of DMX. The memorial took place at [[Barclays Center]] in Brooklyn with a limited capacity of 1,900. It was livestreamed on DMX's YouTube and Instagram accounts. On the way to Barclays, DMX's casket was carried by a black monster truck with "Long live DMX" painted on the side. A procession of hundreds of motorcyclists, in homage to the hip-hop collective Ruff Ryders, rode from DMX's birthplace of Yonkers, New York to Barclays Center. In between performances, people gave speeches including Eve, [[Nas]], Swizz Beatz and [[Ruff Ryders Entertainment|Ruff Ryders]] founders Joaquin "Waah" Dean & Darin "Dee" Dean.

DMX's funeral ("DMX's Homegoing Celebration") took place in Brooklyn at the [[Christian Cultural Center]] on April 25, 2021. It was livestreamed on the [[BET Network]] and its YouTube channel. It lasted around five hours to a limited capacity of 2,000 people. DMX's casket was in the color red and featured the word "FAITH" in large printing. It was featured in the front of the room. People who were in attendance included Nas, [[Lil' Kim|Lil Kim]], [[Alicia Keys]] and Swizz Beatz as well as the pastor of the church, Reverend A.R. Bernard. [[Louis Farrakhan]], a leader of the [[Nation of Islam]], joined the service via Zoom. With the exception of Alicia Keys, Nas and Lil Kim, they all gave speeches. DMX's former wife, Tashera Simmons and Ruff Ryders founders Waah & Dee also gave a speech. There was some controversial testimonies like former [[Def Jam Recordings|Def Jam]] chief [[Lyor Cohen]], when his video featured an overhead view of a beach and explained how Earl Simmons was a wonderful man while DMX was a gremlin. Additionally, Def Jam cofounder [[Russell Simmons]] compared his own issues with drug abuse to DMX via video. The homegoing ended with DMX's obituary read on stage and a virtual performance from [[Faith Evans]].<ref>{{Cite web|last=Rose|first=Jordan|date=2021-04-25|title=DMX Funeral Features Moving Speeches From His Ex-Wife and Swizz Beatz|url=https://variety.com/2021/music/news/dmx-funeral-swizz-beatz-russell-simmons-1234960096/|access-date=2021-04-29|website=Variety|language=en-US|archive-date=April 29, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210429185328/https://variety.com/2021/music/news/dmx-funeral-swizz-beatz-russell-simmons-1234960096/|url-status=live}}</ref>

At the funeral, New York City community leader and peacemaker Erica Ford presented DMX's family several citations and proclamations from the New York governor's and Senate's office, including a proclamation from the New York state Senate declaring December 18—DMX's birthday—"Earl 'DMX' Simmons Day." Additional citations came from Gov. [[Andrew Cuomo]] and Mayor [[Mike Spano]] of Yonkers (the hometown of DMX). Cuomo had the flag flying over the state [[New York State Capitol|capitol]] on the day of DMX's death presented to his family.<ref>{{Cite web|title=December 18 declared as DMX Day by New York State Senate|url=https://www.thefader.com/2021/04/26/december-18-declared-as-dmx-day-by-new-york-state-senate|access-date=2021-04-29|website=The FADER|language=en|archive-date=April 29, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210429190103/https://www.thefader.com/2021/04/26/december-18-declared-as-dmx-day-by-new-york-state-senate|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=Harris|first=Christopher|date=2021-04-25|title=New York State Senate officially declares December 18th Earl "DMX" Simmons Day|url=https://www.revolt.tv/news/2021/4/25/22402736/new-york-senate-declares-earl-dmx-simmons-day|access-date=2021-04-29|website=REVOLT|language=en|archive-date=April 29, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210429190101/https://www.revolt.tv/news/2021/4/25/22402736/new-york-senate-declares-earl-dmx-simmons-day|url-status=live}}</ref>

On June 28, 2021, his music was represented by former Def Jam labelmate [[Method Man]], close friend Swizz Beatz, Busta Rhymes and actor [[Michael K. Williams]] (who himself would pass away five months later) at the [[BET Awards 2021]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Method Man, Busta Rhymes, Swizz Beatz and More Pay Tribute to Late Rapper DMX at 2021 BET Awards |url=https://people.com/music/bet-awards-2021-dmx-tribute-method-man-busta-rhymes-swizz-beatz/ |access-date=2023-10-16 |website=Peoplemag |language=en |archive-date=October 23, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231023025412/https://people.com/music/bet-awards-2021-dmx-tribute-method-man-busta-rhymes-swizz-beatz/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-06-28 |title=Busta Rhymes, Michael K. Williams and More Stars Pay Tribute to DMX at 2021 BET Awards |url=https://www.eonline.com/news/1282488/busta-rhymes-michael-k-williams-and-more-stars-pay-tribute-to-dmx-at-2021-bet-awards |access-date=2023-10-16 |website=E! Online |archive-date=October 23, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231023025412/https://www.eonline.com/news/1282488/busta-rhymes-michael-k-williams-and-more-stars-pay-tribute-to-dmx-at-2021-bet-awards |url-status=live }}</ref>

=== Impact ===
DMX had a significant impact on hip hop music and is considered a "legend" in the genre.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Curto |first=Justin |date=April 9, 2021 |title=DMX, New York Rap Legend, Dead at 50 |url=https://www.vulture.com/2021/04/dmx-dead-new-york-rapper.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211020075201/https://www.vulture.com/2021/04/dmx-dead-new-york-rapper.html |archive-date=October 20, 2021 |access-date=August 10, 2022 |website=[[Vulture.com|Vulture]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last1=Ali |first1=Rasha |last2=Eberhart |first2=Christopher J. |last3=Yasharoff |first3=Hannah |date=April 9, 2021 |title=Rap legend DMX, a pinnacle of the '90s and 2000s hip-hop scene, dies at 50 after heart attack |work=[[USA Today]] |url=https://eu.usatoday.com/story/entertainment/celebrities/2021/04/09/dmx-hip-hop-legend-dies-50-after-heart-attack/7074550002/ |url-status=live |access-date=August 10, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210413153254/https://eu.usatoday.com/story/entertainment/celebrities/2021/04/09/dmx-hip-hop-legend-dies-50-after-heart-attack/7074550002/ |archive-date=April 13, 2021}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Cote |first=Jillian |date=April 22, 2021 |title=Reflecting on DMX's legacy in the rap industry after his death |work=[[The State Press]] |url=https://www.statepress.com/article/2021/04/specho-dmx-death-rapper-legacy |url-status=live |access-date=August 10, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210731014004/https://www.statepress.com/article/2021/04/specho-dmx-death-rapper-legacy |archive-date=July 31, 2021 |quote=[...] DMX earned his place as a rap legend when he became the only rapper to have his first three albums debut at No. 1.}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Ketchum |first=William E. III |date=April 9, 2021 |title=Remembering the inimitable intensity of rap legend DMX |url=https://www.mic.com/p/dmx-the-intense-gruff-voiced-rap-legend-has-died-at-50-72137408 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210512134849/https://www.mic.com/p/dmx-the-intense-gruff-voiced-rap-legend-has-died-at-50-72137408 |archive-date=May 12, 2021 |access-date=August 10, 2022 |website=[[Mic (media company)|Mic]]}}</ref> He's credited for having "defined 2000s rap"<ref name=":bey">{{Cite news |last1=Bey |first1=Justin |last2=Jones |first2=Zoe Christen |date=April 9, 2021 |title=DMX, electrifying rapper who defined 2000s rap, dies at 50 |work=[[CBS News]] |url=https://www.cbsnews.com/news/dmx-dies/ |url-status=live |access-date=August 10, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220206104426/https://www.cbsnews.com/news/dmx-dies/ |archive-date=February 6, 2022}}</ref> and for being "among the most prolific rappers of his era".<ref>{{Cite web |title=DMX: Remembering The Life & Prolific History of Dark Man X |url=https://www.complex.com/tag/dmx |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220703052054/https://www.complex.com/tag/dmx |archive-date=July 3, 2022 |access-date=August 10, 2022 |website=[[Complex Networks|Complex]]}}</ref> He broke and set numerous records.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=Brown |first=Preezy |title=10 Ways DMX Shifted The Landscape of Hip-Hop |url=https://www.okayplayer.com/music/10-ways-dmx-shifted-the-landscape-of-hip-hop.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210518142022/https://www.okayplayer.com/music/10-ways-dmx-shifted-the-landscape-of-hip-hop.html |archive-date=May 18, 2021 |access-date=August 10, 2022 |website=[[Okayplayer]]|date=April 10, 2021 }}</ref> His early work was vastly different from most mainstream hip hop music at the time; while [[Puff Daddy]] and other artists of the [[Bad Boy Records]] label were at the height of popularity, characterized by their "big-budget videos, lavish party-throwing, and dancefloor-ready music", DMX achieved success with a more dark, aggressive, "rugged",<ref name=":1" /> less "marketable" style.

According to an Apple Music radio host: "It was a complete 180...Puff was controlling the clubs; you were watching Bad Boy Records pop bottles, wear [[Rolex]]es, [[Jesus piece (jewelry)|Jesus pieces]], [[Coogi|Coogi sweaters]]. Then here comes this crazy energetic figure from Yonkers with the [[Timbs]] and the bandanas, running around with [[Pit bull|pitbulls]], giving a perspective on the streets that a lot of people weren't familiar with and taking command of what hip-hop didn't look like." DMX's commercially successful violent lyricism helped popularize the [[horrorcore]] genre.<ref name=":hard">{{Cite news |last=Chow |first=Andrew R. |date=April 9, 2021 |title=How DMX's It's Dark and Hell Is Hot Changed the Course of Hip-Hop Forever |work=[[Time Magazine]] |url=https://time.com/5952926/dmx-legacy-hip-hop/ |url-status=live |access-date=August 10, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220805012735/https://time.com/5952926/dmx-legacy-hip-hop/ |archive-date=August 5, 2022}}</ref>

==Discography==
{{Main|DMX discography}}

;Studio albums
* ''[[It's Dark and Hell Is Hot]]'' (1998)
* ''[[Flesh of My Flesh, Blood of My Blood]]'' (1998)
* ''[[... And Then There Was X]]'' (1999)
* ''[[The Great Depression (DMX album)|The Great Depression]]'' (2001)
* ''[[Grand Champ]]'' (2003)
* ''[[Year of the Dog... Again]]'' (2006)
* ''[[Undisputed (DMX album)|Undisputed]]'' (2012)
* ''[[Exodus (DMX album)|Exodus]]'' (2021)

==Awards and nominations==
'''[[Grammy Award]]'''
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Year
! Nominated work
! Award
! Result
|-
| align=center rowspan="2"| [[Grammy Awards of 2001|2001]]
| ''[[... And Then There Was X]]''
| [[Grammy Award for Best Rap Album|Best Rap Album]]
| {{nom}}<ref name=grammyawards>{{Cite web |url=https://www.grammy.com/grammys/artists/dmx/11324 |title=DMX |date=November 23, 2020 |website=GRAMMY.com |access-date=April 9, 2021 |archive-date=April 13, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210413083231/https://www.grammy.com/grammys/artists/dmx/11324 |url-status=live }}</ref>
|-
| "[[Party Up (Up in Here)]]"
| [[Grammy Award for Best Rap Solo Performance|Best Rap Solo Performance]]
| {{nom}}<ref name=grammyawards/>
|-
| align=center| [[Grammy Awards of 2002|2002]]
| "[[Who We Be]]"
| Best Rap Solo Performance
| {{nom}}<ref name=grammyawards/>
|-
| align=center| [[64th Annual Grammy Awards|2022]]
| "Bath Salts" <small> (with [[Nas]] & [[Jay-Z]]) </small>
| [[Grammy Award for Best Rap Song|Best Rap Song]]
| {{nom}}
|-
|}
'''[[American Music Award]]'''
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Year
! Nominated work
! Award
! Result
|-
| align=center| [[American Music Awards of 2000|2000]]
| DMX
| [[American Music Award for Favorite Rap/Hip-Hop Artist|Favorite Rap/Hip-Hop Artist]]
| {{won}}<ref>{{cite web|url=https://edition.cnn.com/2000/SHOWBIZ/Music/01/18/music.awards/list.html|title=American Music Awards: List of winners|website=[[CNN]]|date=January 18, 2000|access-date=November 21, 2017|archive-date=May 16, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210516012103/http://edition.cnn.com/2000/SHOWBIZ/Music/01/18/music.awards/list.html|url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
| align=center| [[American Music Awards of 2001|2001]]
| DMX
| Favorite Rap/Hip-Hop Artist
| {{nom}}<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.digitalhit.com/ama/28.shtml|title=28th Annual American Music Awards Coverage (2001) &#124; DigitalHit.com|website=www.digitalhit.com|access-date=April 9, 2021|archive-date=February 12, 2002|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20020212151452/https://www.digitalhit.com/ama/28.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref>
|}

'''[[MTV Video Music Award]]'''
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Year
! Nominated work
! Award
! Result
|-
| align=center| [[1999 MTV Video Music Awards|1999]]
| "[[Ruff Ryders' Anthem]]"
| [[MTV Video Music Award for Best Rap Video|Best Rap Video]]
| {{Nominated}}<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mtv.com/ontv/vma/1999/|title=MTV Video Music Awards 1999|publisher=MTV|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080902163230/http://www.mtv.com/ontv/vma/1999/|access-date=April 9, 2021|archive-date=September 2, 2008}}</ref>
|-
| align=center| [[2000 MTV Video Music Awards|2000]]
| "Party Up (Up in Here)"
| [[MTV Video Music Award for Best Rap Video|Best Rap Video]]
| {{Nominated}}<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mtv.com/ontv/vma/2000/|title=MTV Video Music Awards 2000|publisher=MTV|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080902172806/http://www.mtv.com/ontv/vma/2000/|access-date=April 9, 2021|archive-date=September 2, 2008}}</ref>
|-
| align=center| [[2001 MTV Video Music Awards|2001]]
| "[[No Sunshine (DMX song)|No Sunshine]]"
| [[MTV Video Music Award for Best Video from a Film|Best Video from a Film]]
| {{Nominated}}<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mtv.com/ontv/vma/2001/|title=MTV Video Music Awards 2001|publisher=MTV|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080902163236/http://www.mtv.com/ontv/vma/2001/|access-date=April 9, 2021|archive-date=September 2, 2008}}</ref>
|-
| align=center rowspan="2"| [[2002 MTV Video Music Awards|2002]]
| rowspan="2"| "Who We Be"
| [[MTV Video Music Award for Best Rap Video|Best Rap Video]]
| {{Nominated}}<ref name="MTV2002"/>
|-
| [[MTV Video Music Award – Breakthrough Video|Best Breakthrough Video]]
| {{Nominated}}<ref name="MTV2002">{{cite web|url=http://www.mtv.com/ontv/vma/2002/|title=MTV Video Music Awards 2002|publisher=MTV|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080903021758/http://www.mtv.com/ontv/vma/2002/|access-date=April 9, 2021|archive-date=September 3, 2008}}</ref>
|-
| align=center rowspan="2"| [[2006 MTV Video Music Awards|2006]]
| rowspan="2"| "[[Touch It (Busta Rhymes song)#Touch It .28Remix.29|Touch It (Remix)]]"
| [[MTV Video Music Award for Best Rap Video|Best Rap Video]]
| {{Nominated}}<ref name="MTV2006"/>
|-
| [[MTV Video Music Award for Best Male Video|Best Male Video]]
| {{Nominated}}<ref name="MTV2006">{{cite web|url=http://www.mtv.com/ontv/vma/2006|title=MTV Video Music Awards 2006|publisher=MTV|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080914061124/http://www.mtv.com/ontv/vma/2006|access-date=April 9, 2021|archive-date=September 14, 2008}}</ref>
|}
'''[[Billboard Music Awards|''Billboard'' Music Award]]'''
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Year
! Nominated work
! Award
! Result
|-
| align=center| [[1999 Billboard Music Awards|1999]]
| DMX
| Top R&B Album Artist of the Year
| {{won}} 
|}

==Filmography==
'''Films'''
{| class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! Year !! Title !! Role !! class="unsortable" | Notes
|-
|| 1998 || ''[[Belly (film)|Belly]]'' || Tommy "Buns" Bundy || <ref name="NZ1">{{cite news |title=DMX to play himself in Chris Rock movie |url=https://www.herald.co.zw/dmx-to-play-himself-in-chris-rock-movie/ |access-date=April 10, 2021 |work=[[New Zealand Herald]] |date=August 15, 2013 |archive-date=April 10, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410022922/https://www.herald.co.zw/dmx-to-play-himself-in-chris-rock-movie/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
|-
| rowspan="3" | 2000 || ''[[Romeo Must Die]]'' || Silk || <ref name="NZ1"/>
|-
| ''[[Backstage (2000 film)|Backstage]]'' || Himself || <ref name="RT1"/>
|-
| ''[[Boricua's Bond]]'' || Himself ||
|-
|| 2001 || ''[[Exit Wounds]]'' || Latrell Walker || <ref name="NZ1"/>
|- <!--
|| 2001 || ''Angel: One More Road to Cross'' || As himself || 
|-
|| 2001 || ''HipHop Story: Tha Movie'' || Himself|| 
|- -->
|| 2003 || ''[[Cradle 2 the Grave]]'' || Anthony Fait || <ref name="NZ1"/>
|-
|| 2004 || ''[[Never Die Alone]]'' || King David || <ref name="RT1"/>
|-
|| 2006 || ''Father of Lies'' || Paul || Direct-to-DVD<ref name="RT1"/>
|-
|| 2007 || ''[[Death Toll]]'' || The Dog || Direct-to-DVD<ref name="RT1"/>
|-
| rowspan="2" | 2008 || ''[[Last Hour]]'' || Black Jack || Direct-to-DVD<ref name="RT1"/>
|-
| ''[[Lords of the Street]]'' || Thorn || Originally titled ''Jump Out Boys''<ref name="RT1"/> 
|-
| rowspan="2" | 2009 || ''Lockjaw: Rise of the Kulev Serpent'' || Nick || Direct-to-DVD<ref name="RT1"/>
|- 
| ''[[The Bleeding (film)|The Bleeding]]'' || Tagg || Direct-to-DVD<ref name="RT1"/>
|-
| rowspan="2" | 2013 || ''King Dog'' || Terrell (TJ) Johnson || Direct-to-DVD<ref>{{cite web|url=http://kingdogthemovie.com/|title=King Dog the Movie|publisher=Kingdogthemovie.com|access-date=April 17, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141217171752/http://kingdogthemovie.com/|archive-date=December 17, 2014}}</ref>
|-
| ''Blame It on the Hustle'' || — || Direct-to-DVD<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blogs.indiewire.com/shadowandact/blame-it-on-the-hustle-updates-add-mekhi-phifer-jackie-long-to-cast-benny-boom-to-direct#|title=Blame It On The Hustle|publisher=Blogs.indiewire.com|access-date=April 17, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121119064434/http://blogs.indiewire.com/shadowandact/blame-it-on-the-hustle-updates-add-mekhi-phifer-jackie-long-to-cast-benny-boom-to-direct|archive-date=November 19, 2012}}</ref>
|-
|rowspan="2" |2014 || ''[[Top Five]]'' || Himself || Cameo appearance<ref>{{cite news |last1=McCarthy |first1=Sean |title=DMX Dies at 50: Relive His 'Top Five' Cameo For The "Smile" We All Need Today |url=https://decider.com/2021/04/09/dmx-dies-top-five-cameo-smile/ |access-date=April 10, 2021 |website=Decider.com |date=April 9, 2021 |archive-date=April 10, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410025646/https://decider.com/2021/04/09/dmx-dies-top-five-cameo-smile/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
|-
| ''Journey to Sundance'' || Himself || Documentary 
|-
| 2017 || ''Can't Stop, Won't Stop: A Bad Story''|| Himself || Documentary 
|-
|rowspan=2 | 2018 || ''[[Pimp (2018 film)|Pimp]]'' || Midnight John || <ref name="RT1"/>
|-
| ''The After Party'' || Himself || Cameo
|-
| 2019 || ''[[Beyond the Law (2019 film)|Beyond the Law]]'' || Detective Ray Munce || <ref name="RT1"/>
|-
| rowspan="2" | 2020 || ''Fast and Fierce: Death Race'' || Davie || <ref>{{cite news |last1=Saperstein |first1=Pat |title=Fast and Fierce: Death Race (2020) |url=https://variety.com/list_item/fast-and-fierce-death-race-2020/ |access-date=April 10, 2021 |website=Variety.com |date=April 9, 2021 |archive-date=April 10, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410025644/https://variety.com/list_item/fast-and-fierce-death-race-2020/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
|-
| ''Chronicle of a Serial Killer'' || Detective White || <ref>{{cite news |last1=Price |first1=Jason |title=Hip Hop Legend DMX Stars In Gritty Thriller 'Chronicle of a Serial Killer'; Trailer and Poster Art Revealed! |url=https://www.iconvsicon.com/2020/08/27/hip-hop-legend-dmx-stars-in-gritty-thriller-chronicle-of-a-serial-killer-trailer-and-poster-art-revealed/ |access-date=April 10, 2021 |website=IconvsIcon.com |date=August 27, 2020 |archive-date=April 10, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410193045/https://www.iconvsicon.com/2020/08/27/hip-hop-legend-dmx-stars-in-gritty-thriller-chronicle-of-a-serial-killer-trailer-and-poster-art-revealed/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
|-
| 2021 || ''[[DMX: Don't Try to Understand]]'' || Himself || Documentary
|-
| rowspan="3" {{TBA}} || ''Fast Vengeance'' || || Post-production
|-
| ''Doggmen'' || Cowboy || Filming 
|-
| ''A Journey to Sundance'' || Himself ||Documentary
|}

'''Video games'''
{| class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! Year !! Title !! Role !! class="unsortable" | Notes
|-
| 2002 || ''[[Street Hoops]]'' || Himself|| Vocals
|-
| 2003 ||''[[Def Jam Vendetta]]'' || Himself || Voice role and likeness<ref>{{cite news |last1=Jones |first1=Wil |title=DEF JAM VENDETTA: THE STRANGE STORY OF THE GREATEST HIP-HOP WRESTLING GAME EVER |url=https://www.joe.co.uk/gaming/def-jam-vendetta-fight-for-ny-245679 |access-date=April 10, 2021 |work=[[Joe (website)|Joe]] |date=August 2020 |archive-date=April 10, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410020145/https://www.joe.co.uk/gaming/def-jam-vendetta-fight-for-ny-245679 |url-status=live }}</ref>
|}

'''Television'''
{| class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! Year !! Title !! Role !! class="unsortable" | Notes
|-
| 1998 || ''[[The Chris Rock Show]]'' || Himself || <ref name="RT1">{{cite web |title=DMX |url=https://www.rottentomatoes.com/celebrity/earl_simmons |publisher=Rotten Tomatoes |access-date=April 10, 2021 |archive-date=September 24, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100924191735/https://www.rottentomatoes.com/celebrity/earl_simmons |url-status=live }}</ref>
|-
| 2000 || ''[[Moesha]]'' || Himself || "Gimme a Break" (season 5, episode 18)<ref name="RT1"/>
|-
| 2000–02 || ''[[MadTV]]'' || Himself || 2 episodes<ref>{{cite news |title=DMX, Rapper and Actor, Dies at 50 |url=https://www.tvinsider.com/994431/dmx-dead-rapper-party-up-belly-romeo-must-die/ |access-date=April 10, 2021 |work=TV Insider |date=April 10, 2021 |archive-date=April 10, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410024739/https://www.tvinsider.com/994431/dmx-dead-rapper-party-up-belly-romeo-must-die/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
|-
| 2002 || ''[[Half & Half]]'' || Himself || "The Big Sistah Sans Soul" (season 1, episode 7)<ref name="RT1"/>
|-
| rowspan="3" | 2003 || ''[[Third Watch]]'' || Kandid Jones || "In Lieu of Johnson" (season 5, episode 92)<ref name="RT1"/>
|-
| ''[[Eve (U.S. TV series)|Eve]]'' || Xenon || "She Snoops to Conquer" (season 1, episode 3)<ref name="RT1"/>
|- 
| ''$2 Bill'' || Himself|| "Episode DMX, Method Man and Ludacris"
|-
| rowspan="3" | 2004 || ''[[Chappelle's Show]]'' || Himself || Music guest (season 2, episode 16)<ref>{{cite web |title=CHAPPELLE'S SHOW | date=January 21, 2003 |url=https://www.paramountplus.com/shows/chappelles-show/#ftag=PPM-18-10caf1d |publisher=Comedy Central |access-date=April 10, 2021 |archive-date=January 25, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210125150740/https://www.cc.com/shows/chappelles-show |url-status=live }}</ref>
|-
| ''[[Jimmy Kimmel Live!]]'' || Himself || Season 3, episode 57<ref>{{cite web |title=ABC Announces the Third Season Pick-Up of 'Jimmy Kimmel Live,' the Popular Late-Night Talk Show, Through the 2005 Season |url=http://www.thefutoncritic.com/news/2004/10/20/abc-announces-the-third-season-pick-up-of-jimmy-kimmel-live-the-popular-late-night-talk-show-through-the-2005-season-17113/20041020abc01/ |publisher=ABC |access-date=April 10, 2021 |date=October 20, 2004 |archive-date=January 7, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240107202845/http://www.thefutoncritic.com/news/2004/10/20/abc-announces-the-third-season-pick-up-of-jimmy-kimmel-live-the-popular-late-night-talk-show-through-the-2005-season-17113/20041020abc01/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
|-
| ''[[The Sharon Osbourne Show]]'' || Himself || <ref>{{cite web |title=Rebel without an Ozz |url=https://www.rottentomatoes.com/tv/the_osbournes/s03/e03 |publisher=Rotten Tomatoes |access-date=April 10, 2021 |archive-date=June 7, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210607183316/https://www.rottentomatoes.com/tv/the_osbournes/s03/e03 |url-status=live }}</ref>
|-
| 2005 || ''[[Trippin']]'' || Himself || 2 episodes<ref>{{cite news |last1=Martel |first1=Ned |title=Trippin' With Diaz |url=https://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/fl-xpm-2005-03-30-0503280272-story.html |access-date=April 10, 2021 |work=South Florida Sun Sentinel |date=March 30, 2005 |archive-date=June 30, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210630143040/https://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/fl-xpm-2005-03-30-0503280272-story.html |url-status=live }}</ref>
|-
| 2006 || ''[[DMX: Soul of a Man]]'' || Himself || Documentary<ref>{{cite news |last1=Haring |first1=Bruce |title=DMX Remembered Tonight By BET With Special Programming Block |url=https://deadline.com/2021/04/dmx-remembered-tonight-bet-special-programming-block-1234731459/ |access-date=April 10, 2021 |work=Deadline |date=April 9, 2021 |archive-date=April 10, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410190223/https://deadline.com/2021/04/dmx-remembered-tonight-bet-special-programming-block-1234731459/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
|-
| 2008 || ''[[Big Pun: The Legacy]]'' || Himself || Documentary<ref>{{cite news |last1=Watkins |first1=Greg |title=Big Pun Remembered, New Documentary On The Way |url=https://allhiphop.com/news/big-pun-remembered-new-documentary-on-the-way/ |access-date=April 10, 2021 |work=AllHipHop |date=February 7, 2009 |archive-date=April 10, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410025646/https://allhiphop.com/news/big-pun-remembered-new-documentary-on-the-way/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
|-
| 2011 || ''[[Lifechangers]]'' || Himself || 2 episodes<ref>{{cite news |last1=Chandler |first1=D.L. |title=DMX TALKS ESCAPING FROM PRISON ON DR. DREW'S 'LIFECHANGERS' |url=http://www.mtv.com/news/2496378/dmx-talks-escaping-from-prison-dr-drew-lifechangers/ |access-date=April 10, 2021 |work=MTV |date=November 10, 2011 |archive-date=April 10, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410022503/http://www.mtv.com/news/2496378/dmx-talks-escaping-from-prison-dr-drew-lifechangers/ }}</ref>
|-
| 2012 || ''[[Couples Therapy (2012 TV series)|Couples Therapy]]'' || Himself || Documentary<ref>{{cite news |title='Couples Therapy': DMX Breaks Down As He Talks About His Mother (VIDEO) |url=https://www.huffpost.com/entry/couples-therapy-dmx-breaks-down-video_n_1436613 |access-date=April 10, 2021 |work=[[HuffPost]] |date=April 23, 2012 |archive-date=April 10, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410022503/https://www.huffpost.com/entry/couples-therapy-dmx-breaks-down-video_n_1436613 |url-status=live }}</ref>
|-
| 2013 || ''[[Iyanla, Fix My Life]]'' || Himself || "Fix My Rap Star Life" (season 2, episode 1)<ref>{{cite news |title=DMX WANTS TO RETURN TO IYANLA VANZANT'S 'FIX MY LIFE' |url=https://thesource.com/2019/01/15/dmx-iyanla-fix-my-life/ |access-date=April 10, 2021 |work=The Source |date=January 15, 2019 |archive-date=April 10, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410022513/https://thesource.com/2019/01/15/dmx-iyanla-fix-my-life/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
|- 
| 2015 || ''[[Fresh Off the Boat]]'' || Himself || Season 2, episode 9<ref>{{cite news |last1=Robinson |first1=Will |title=Fresh Off the Boat recap: We Done Son |url=https://ew.com/recap/fresh-off-the-boat-season-2-episode-9/ |access-date=April 10, 2021 |work=EW |date=December 2, 2015 |archive-date=April 10, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210410022500/https://ew.com/recap/fresh-off-the-boat-season-2-episode-9/ |url-status=live }}</ref> 
|- 
| 2017 || ''[[Black Ink Crew (TV series)|Black Ink Crew]]'' || Himself || Season 5, episode 14<ref>{{cite web |title=He Signs Your Checks… |url=http://www.vh1.com/episodes/5of62e/black-ink-crew-new-york-he-signs-your-checks-season-5-ep-514 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200805222756/http://www.vh1.com/episodes/5of62e/black-ink-crew-new-york-he-signs-your-checks-season-5-ep-514 |archive-date=August 5, 2020 |publisher=VH1 |access-date=April 10, 2021}}</ref>
|}

==See also==
* [[Ruff Ryders Entertainment#Ruff Ryders|Ruff Ryders]]{{Broken anchor|date=2024-06-15|bot=User:Cewbot/log/20201008/configuration|target_link=Ruff Ryders Entertainment#Ruff Ryders|reason=Anchor "Ruff Ryders Entertainment#Ruff Ryders" links to a specific web page: "Ruff Ryders". The anchor (Ruff Ryders) [[Special:Diff/1057043715|has been deleted]].}}
* [[Murder Inc. (rap group)|Murder Inc.]]

==Notes==
{{Notelist}}

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==External links==
{{sister project links|display=DMX|d=Q223769|n=no|b=no|v=no|voy=no|m=no|mw=no|species=no|s=no|wikt=no}}
* {{discogs artist}}
* {{IMDb name|0229422}}

{{DMX|state=expanded}}
{{American Music Award for Favorite Rap/Hip-Hop Artist}}
{{Portal bar|1990s|Biography|Music|New York (state)|United States}}

{{Authority control}}

[[Category:DMX| ]]
[[Category:1970 births]]
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