DMX died on April 9, 2021 in White Plains, New York, after he was hospitalized on April 2 following a reported heart attack.
Biography
Earl Simmons was the second of three children of a single mother, and was born in Mount Vernon, New York Simmons ended up growing up in the School Street housing projects of Yonkers, New York. He began rapping around the age of 13, amusing crowds of children with rhymes that relied on spelled-out words, a style he called "spellbound." A local rapper eventually asked the young Earl to beatbox for him, and Simmons agreed, adopting the stage name DMX, which stands for "Dark Man of the Unknown," X being an algebraic expression for unknown. But at the time, stood for a drum system that delivered amazing beats. Eventually he decided to try his hand at serious rapping, and honed his skills during a stint at a group home. He also got into fights and frequently was on the run from police. During this period, he also began doing shows and battling other rappers (Once battling and defeating Jay-Z), making a name for himself in the New York area. He released his first album called "DMX: Unleashed and Unreleased" which was an instant hit on the streets of Yonkers. He was also featured in the Unsigned Hype section of The Source in 1988.
He stated he wanted to be a preacher when he retires from his rapping career as he stated in his reality TV Show DMX: Soul Of A Man.
DMX was a fan of the Pit Bull type dogs (American Pit Bull Terriers and American Staffordshire Terriers). He had a tattoo of one of his deceased dogs, on his back, which read "One Love Boomer". He later contributed over $1 million to the United Negro Association for unfortunate black children in New York City..
Recording career
In and out of jail, DMX decided to focus solely on his rap career. He began seriously looking for a deal and linked up with Pete McCormick Schaub, an A&R for Small Island at the time. Eventually, he signed a management deal with Ruff Ryders. They negotiated deals with both Bad Boy and Death Row Records, but he eventually landed at Def Jam. He is currently at Sony BMG, set to release his first of three albums on August 1st 2006. Rumors also arose that DMX had signed for 50 Cent's G-Unit Records, but were dismissed in a public news conference.
It's Dark and Hell Is Hot
Before It's Dark and Hell Is Hot, DMX released the single "Born Loser" which was banned on MTV due to the video's graphic images. DMX's debut single was "Get At Me Dog", which was an instant hit. His critically-acclaimed debut album, It's Dark and Hell Is Hot, is often credited with revitalizing Hardcore Rap in the mainstream scene, after the death of Tupac Shakur, and after Puff Daddy and Bad Boy Entertainment briefly dominated the charts with their pop-oriented and sample-reliant tunes.
In 1997, DMX earned a second major-label shot with Def Jam, and made a successful guest appearance on LL Cool J's "4, 3, 2, 1." Additional guest spots on Ma$e's "24 Hours to Live" and fellow Yonkers MCs the The LOX's "Money, Power, & Respect" created an even stronger buzz, and in early 1998, he released his debut Def Jam single, "Get At Me Dog." The song went gold and was a hit on the rap and dance charts. The single paved the way for DMX to release his classic first full-length album, It's Dark and Hell Is Hot, which debuted as number one on the pop charts.
Produced mostly by Damon "Dame Grease" Blackman, (Swizz Beatz produced the "Ruff Ryders' Anthem", paving the way for future projects between the two). It's Dark and Hell Is Hot earned DMX numerous comparisons to Tupac Shakur for his booming and aggressive presence on the mic. The album went on to sell over four million copies and earned him credit for revitalizing Hardcore Rap after the deaths of Tupac Shakur and The Notorious B.I.G. Shortly after the album's release in May 1998, DMX was accused of raping a stripper in the Bronx, but was later cleared by DNA evidence. He made his film debut together with Nas and Method Man in Hype Williams' mildly successful film Belly. Although not a critical success, the film found a strong following with hip hop audiences.
Flesh of My Flesh, Blood of My Blood
DMX completed his second album before the end of 1998, and a pending buyout of Def Jam pushed the record into stores December 15. Flesh of My Flesh, Blood of My Blood entered the charts at number one and eventually went triple platinum. This number one hit made DMX the first rapper to have two number one albums in the same year. The cover photo of the rapper covered in pig's blood caused some controversy. The single "Slippin'" became his first chart hit in the UK. DMX hit the road with Jay-Z and the Method Man/Redman team on the blockbuster Hard Knock Life tour the following year. He had a song called "Jack Moves" with the legendary rap group Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, but the song did not appear on the album.
...And Then There Was X
DMX released his third album on December 21, 1999, ...And Then There Was X, which was his third straight album to debut at number one. Party Up was his biggest single since "Get at Me Dog" which became his first Top Ten hit on the R&B charts. His next singles off the album, "What's My Name" & "What These Bitches Want" feat. Sisqó were also popular. ...And Then There Was X is the rapper's best-selling album to date, going 6x platinum and 9x platinum worldwide, & one of the fastest made by DMX : Def Jam urged him to realise the tracks within a month, while DMX used to take a year to write songs.
The Great Depression
After resolving his legal problems, DMX returned to the studio and completed his fourth album, The Great Depression. Released October 3, 2001, it was DMX's fourth straight album to debut at number one. The album demonstrated his still strong allegiance with the Ruff Ryders. The Great Depression went platinum quickly, but lacked the staying power of his previous releases.
Grand Champ
Released in 2003, Grand Champ was DMX's fifth straight album to debut at number one, extending DMX's position as the only artist in history to have 5 albums (his entire album catalog at that point) debut at #1. Fans and critics claimed disappointment with the album, most stating that it felt formulaic. After its release, DMX informed the public that he planned on retiring from the rap game and that Grand Champ would be his final album. He later ended his brief retirement and announced his plans to record the album Year of the Dog...Again. It debuted with approximately 125,000 albums sold, but failed to give DMX a sixth consecutive #1 album. The album is his lowest selling to date, and has yet to reach Gold in the U.S.
Year of the Dog...Again
Released August 1st 2006, Year of the Dog...Again had numerous problems due to DMX switching record labels, as well as numerous delays. The album's five predeccesors debuted at #1, while this album missed the top spot by only a few thousand sales. In March, 2006 it was announced that the album had been renamed to "Year of the Dog, Again," from "Here We Go, Again." When DMX switched to Sony, Def Jam allowed him to keep all of the tracks he had created for the album. It was reported that most of the tracks were being reworked, with updated production, however the reworked album has also been leaked. DMX has also appeared on Busta Rhymes' "Touch It (The Remix)". He has also released his new singles "Lord Give Me A Sign", and "We In Here" feat. Swizz Beatz, which are included in "Year of the Dog...Again".
Dog Intro
DMX Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Ride or die
Get at these niggas dog
Yup, yup, yup
I don't really trust humans that much these days
Shit, fact of the matter is, I trust dogs more than I trust humans
Shit, nothin' like that dog love I tell ya
Not just any dog, it's gotta be a pit bull
You don't wanna get caught in a pit with one of them
They make good companions, but even worse enemies
It's all on how you take it
Nothin' goes down I don't get a small piece of
Get the picture, see the beauty in the beast of
The mad man, Mr. bad man is here
'Cause a nigga like me smells wreck in the air
It just ain't fair, the shit that I be doin' to niggas
And get away with the same shit, ruinin' niggas
Cover all ground and I roll thick like the fog
Only mothafuckin' friend I ever had was a dog
Never ate the hog but glad to say I smoked plenty of 'em
The 5th Precinct to name one of many of 'em
In one verse I beat you worse than your momma
I fuck around and eat you first like Dahmer's
I'ma, play that ass out like a bomber
Killed a nigga once for lookin' like he wanted drama
I'm buggin', the pain it hurts I gotta scream
Ah! Lettin' off a little steam
Society was just too much, couldn't hack it
Six mothafuckin' years in a straight jacket
Yo black it wasn't wise for them to let me out the joint
I never really got better, so I'm not on point
I just might flip, quick, but it's too late to be bitchin'
Got more loose screws than the table in your kitchen
I'm itchin', just hope you ain't around when I scratch
'Cause like I said before, I eats what I catch
Searchin' shit will have a nigga hurt and sick
The dirt you kick will get you in the dirt and quick
Word to Miz, you niggas is kids, don't play
I'm too old for the jokes you'll get smoked, I don't play
I'm won't say what's gon' happen if you force my hand
Someone somewhere will be like, "Lost my man"
Take it to heart, it's about to get dark so run that
All that shit niggas talkin' been there, done that
What black? Think it's an act? Then let me know
But he liked what I'm sayin' so shut the fuck up and let me flow
Yo you think it's a game? Keep playin'
They gon' find your ass somewhere in a creek layin'
It's over you just ain't laid down yet
And in a minute you gon' be that mothafucka that they ain't found yet
Hold off from makin' movies and make moves
Stop talkin' about shit that you can't prove
I'm the mountain you can't move, so why you tryin'
Lookin' at me stupid wonderin' why you dyin'
While you flyin' through the air with a big ass hole in your chest
Wishin' you was holdin' a vest
But it's too late for wishin', so you gettin' this rest
Go to sleep, Papa will take care of the stress
God bless and may hHe have mercy on your soul
Pop Pop, take these two more with you on your stroll, nigga
Yep, yep, yep
I don't really trust humans that much these days
Shit, the fact of the matter is, I trust dogs more than I trust humans
Shit, nothin' like that dog love, I tell ya
Not just any dog, it's gotta be a Pitbull
Yup, that's the only dog for me
You don't wanna get caught in a pit with one of them
They make good companions, but even worse enemies
It's all on how you take it
You know how we do baby
Aight
Grand champ
You know how we do
Scratch all day, match our weight
Fuck nigga
You can't be fuckin' serious
A raccoon ain't nothin' but a big cat
In DMX's song Dog Intro, he speaks about his love for dogs and how they are more trustworthy than humans. He specifically references Pitbulls, stating they are the perfect dog for him. DMX also talks about his past struggles with society and how it has affected him mentally. He mentions being in a straight jacket for six years and how he has more loose screws than the table in your kitchen. He also speaks about the violence he has inflicted on others and how it can lead to their downfall.
One interpretation of the song is that DMX values the loyalty and love that dogs give to their owners, while humans can be deceitful and untrustworthy. He may be using this as a metaphor for his experiences with people in his life who have let him down or hurt him in some way. His love for Pitbulls may also symbolize his own aggression and willingness to protect himself and those he cares about.
Overall, Dog Intro showcases DMX's raw and unapologetic approach to rap, with powerful imagery and lyrics that paint a vivid picture of his experiences and worldview.
Line by Line Meaning
Ruff Ryders
This song is being presented by the Ruff Ryders hip-hop collective.
Ride or die
The group's mantra is to stay loyal to their team till the end.
Get at these niggas dog
The artist is calling out anyone who has a problem with him or his crew.
Yup, yup, yup
An affirming phrase expressing agreement, excitement, or anticipation.
I don't really trust humans that much these days
The artist has issues with trusting humans and instead relies more on loyalty and love from dogs.
Shit, fact of the matter is, I trust dogs more than I trust humans
Humans have been disloyal to the artist, and he has found more trust in dogs as they can provide unconditional love.
Shit, nothin' like that dog love I tell ya
The artist believes that nothing can replace the love and loyalty of a dog.
Not just any dog, it's gotta be a pit bull
The artist prefers a specific breed of dog that has a reputation for being fierce and loyal.
Yup, that's the only dog for me
The artist has a strong preference for pit bulls and will not consider any other breed.
You don't wanna get caught in a pit with one of them
The artist warns that pit bulls can become violent and dangerous if not properly trained or mistreated.
They make good companions, but even worse enemies
A pit bull can be a loyal companion, but they have a fierce loyalty that can make them dangerous if they perceive a threat.
It's all on how you take it
How a pit bull responds to a person is heavily influenced by how someone treats and trains them. The breed is not inherently violent.
Nothin' goes down I don't get a small piece of
The artist has a part in everything that happens in his circle and is quick to assert his dominance.
Get the picture, see the beauty in the beast of
The artist can find beauty and strength in the violence and chaos of his environment.
The mad man, Mr. bad man is here
The artist is introducing himself and asserting his reputation as a dangerous and unpredictable figure.
'Cause a nigga like me smells wreck in the air
The artist is very perceptive and can sense when danger and chaos are imminent.
It just ain't fair, the shit that I be doin' to niggas
The artist feels that the violent actions he takes against others are justified even if others may consider them unfair.
And get away with the same shit, ruinin' niggas
The artist has a reputation for causing destruction and getting away with it.
Cover all ground and I roll thick like the fog
The artist is always present and can easily move through his environment unnoticed like the fog.
Only mothafuckin' friend I ever had was a dog
The artist has had issues with trust and loyalty in the past, but his pit bull has been the exception and the only true friend he has ever had.
Never ate the hog but glad to say I smoked plenty of 'em
The artist has a history of drug use and has smoked a lot of marijuana.
In one verse I beat you worse than your momma
The artist is confident in his skills as a rapper and can easily out-rap anyone.
I fuck around and eat you first like Dahmer's
The artist is referencing the notorious serial killer, Jeffrey Dahmer, and suggesting that he may resort to cannibalism.
I'ma, play that ass out like a bomber
The artist is threatening to take violent action against anyone who opposes him.
Killed a nigga once for lookin' like he wanted drama
The artist has resorted to violence in the past and will not hesitate to do so again if he feels threatened.
I'm buggin', the pain it hurts I gotta scream
The artist is struggling with inner demons and is experiencing emotional pain that he needs to express.
Letting off a little steam
The artist is trying to find an outlet for his anger and frustration.
Society was just too much, couldn't hack it
The artist feels disconnected and alienated from society.
Six mothafuckin' years in a straight jacket
The artist has a history of mental illness and has spent time in a straight jacket as a result.
Yo black it wasn't wise for them to let me out the joint
The artist is suggesting that he is a danger to society and that authorities made a mistake by releasing him.
I never really got better, so I'm not on point
The artist has not worked to improve his mental health and is still a dangerous and unpredictable figure.
I just might flip, quick, but it's too late to be bitchin'
The artist is aware of his instability and may act violently at any moment, so there is no use complaining about it.
Got more loose screws than the table in your kitchen
The artist is mentally unstable and unpredictable, often compared to a table that is unstable due to loose screws.
I'm itchin', just hope you ain't around when I scratch
The artist is on edge and may act out violently at any moment.
'Cause like I said before, I eats what I catch
The artist is suggesting that he will do whatever it takes to survive, even if it means resorting to violence.
Searchin' shit will have a nigga hurt and sick
The artist suggests that looking for trouble will only lead to pain and suffering.
The dirt you kick will get you in the dirt and quick
The artist warns that if you cause chaos and destruction, it will only lead to your downfall.
Word to Miz, you niggas is kids, don't play
The artist is suggesting that his opponents are immature and should not to be taken seriously.
I'm too old for the jokes you'll get smoked, I don't play
The artist is too mature to engage in childish behavior and will not hesitate to take violent action against those who oppose him.
I'm won't say what's gon' happen if you force my hand
The artist is threatening to resort to violence if provoked.
Someone somewhere will be like, 'Lost my man'
If the artist resorts to violence, it will likely result in someone's death or injury, and someone will be mourning their loss.
Take it to heart, it's about to get dark so run that
The artist is warning that there is danger on the horizon and that people should be prepared for violence.
All that shit niggas talkin' been there, done that
The artist has heard and seen it all and is unfazed by empty threats or talk.
What black? Think it's an act? Then let me know
The artist is confident in his abilities and is daring anyone to question him.
But he liked what I'm sayin' so shut the fuck up and let me flow
The artist believes that his audience is enjoying his music and wants them to stop interrupting him.
Yo you think it's a game? Keep playin'
The artist is suggesting that his opponents are not taking the situation seriously and that they will regret their actions.
They gon' find your ass somewhere in a creek layin'
The artist is suggesting that his opponents will end up dead and abandoned in a creek somewhere.
It's over you just ain't laid down yet
The artist is suggesting that his opponents have already lost and are just waiting to be defeated.
And in a minute you gon' be that mothafucka that they ain't found yet
The artist is suggesting that he will kill his opponents and that they will remain missing and undiscovered.
Hold off from makin' movies and make moves
The artist is suggesting that his opponents stop talking and start taking action.
Stop talkin' about shit that you can't prove
The artist believes that his opponents are making false claims and should back them up with evidence.
I'm the mountain you can't move, so why you tryin'
The artist is suggesting that he is too powerful and unbreakable and that his opponents cannot defeat him.
Lookin' at me stupid wonderin' why you dyin'
The artist believes that his opponents are foolish for trying to take him down.
While you flyin' through the air with a big ass hole in your chest
The artist is suggesting that if he shoots his opponents, they will fall to the ground with a gunshot wound.
Wishin' you was holdin' a vest
The artist is suggesting that his opponents will regret not wearing protective gear that could have saved their life.
But it's too late for wishin', so you gettin' this rest
The artist is suggesting that his opponents have reached the point of no return and that they will not survive the encounter.
Go to sleep, Papa will take care of the stress
The artist is suggesting that he is the one in control and that he will relieve his opponents of their pain and suffering by killing them.
God bless and may He have mercy on your soul
The artist is suggesting that his opponents will face punishment in the afterlife.
Pop Pop, take these two more with you on your stroll, nigga
The artist is suggesting that his opponents have died and that their souls will accompany his grandfather's soul, who has passed away.
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, THE ROYALTY NETWORK INC., Royalty Network, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd., Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Bashir Fidai, Darold Trotter, Earl Simmons
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind