Hard , real , and one of the few rappers who connected with people , are some words used to describe Earl Simmons , best known as DMX ( Dark Man X ). DMX came into the rap game during the early 1990s as the antithesis of the bling culture . His distinctive , raspy voice as well as gritty lyrics propelled his career during the late 90s and early 2000s . His single , " Ruff Ryders Anthem ," helped to seal his critical and commercial success . He also ventured into acting in blockbuster movies including ' Romeo Must Die ' and ' Cradle 2 the Grave '. Despite a successful career , DMX ' s life was also riddled with addictions , and trouble with the law . Through it all , he kept it real with fans through his music , interviews and faith .
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DMX was born on December 18th 1970 , in Mount Vernon and was raised in Yonkers , New York . DMX had a tumultuous childhood marked by domestic abuse . He spent much of his childhood and teenage years in group homes or juvenile detention facilities . DMX turned to stealing and befriended stray dogs , which influenced both his moniker and his music . In the early 1990s , he made a name for himself as a battle rapper .
Following his big break , DMX sold millions of records and was nominated for three Grammy Awards . He was the first rapper to have his first five albums debut at No . 1 on the Billboard chart . He passed away at the age of 50 on April 9 , 2021 . He suffered a heart attack that left him in a coma for days . He was surrounded by loved ones at the time of his passing . The legacy of his discography is timeless , and the authenticity of his being has left an imprint on the lives of those he impacted .