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".
Heat
DMX Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
*car drives past*
Uh yeah yeah
*gunshots*
got you dog
uh...grrrrrrrrr
uh..arf arf arf..
Chorus:The heat is on
are yall really ready to fly
The heat is on
are yall really ready to die
The heat is oonnnnn
have ya mutha ready to cry
The heat is on high, oh, you know
[DMX]
The heat is on what's my next move
do I stick with the score, or get with the door
feds got the drop, in the back
of the uhaul, snipers on the roof
chance of gettin' away, to small
tell'em like this look, it's gone be
a shoot out, whoeva make it out
gone meet back at the new house
good luck, if I don't see you again peace
let's handle our business
wit the government police, you and you
go out the front, you take the back
you cover the first two
and I'll take the sac
Boomer didn't make it, neither did Stan
now it's three niggaz, splitin' four hundred grand (aight)
we all for the lost,but
enjoy the profit,the game is the same,
and nuttin' gone stop it
most times you make it, one time you won't
all niggaz can really do
have invested in a coat (come on)
(Chorus: 2x)
[DMX]
me and my two mans,
gave money twenty grand, for a scam
they don't get the prime dough
in the sand, and
chances of gettin' caught
slim next to none, now we like three deep
need that extra gun
bump into my man, I remember from up North
I remember he got principles and wasn't nothin' soft
off with the discuss, jus whus slow and dizzy
everybody got it, aight let's get bizzy
run up in the bank bitch
*woman screams* hit the deck *gun shots*
yo bust money,and get the keys off his neck
(come here)
we on the clock, three mintues til we finished
feds are on the way, but I'm tryin to see spinach
in and out, duffle bag
has lost the bat, extra large sport coat
to cover up the mac
feds made attack, I spit lead out
niggaz sped out, run up on a sivilian
in his car, made him get out
*gunfight over the last three lines*
(Chorus: 2x)
[DMX]
high speed chasin', racin' thru the streets
deaths in the air, I can taste it
thru the heat, my potnahs goin' fast
I don't think he's gone last
and if he don't, I'ma hit his wife
with his half, but that's tha type in da game
seen jus rappin, I made it, he didn't
but ain't shit happen
what can I do, but go on livin'
fleein' from the condoe, I go on a ribbon
life goes on, that might sound wrong
but heeyyy, we all live by the rules,
of the game we play
day to day, death is a possiablity
the way I play, feds stops you from killin' me
it's too hot to be in the heat
cuz it's on, too hot to be in the streets
so I'm gone, go back to bein' discreet
and live long til one day,
either me or the heat is gone
(Chorus: 2x)
*car drives past*
The song "Heat" by DMX describes the intense pressure and danger of a criminal lifestyle, where every move could mean life or death. The title "Heat" represents the danger that any criminal could face if they get caught. Throughout the song, DMX talks about his dilemma of whether to stick with the plan or to escape, while law enforcement officers are after him. He talks about his team splitting up after a bank heist, and the consequences of their actions, including the death of one of his partners.
DMX also touches on the idea that there is always a risk when living a criminal lifestyle. The heat is always on, waiting to catch them in their illegal activities. He mentions that they need to be prepared at all times and have a vest under their coat no matter what situation they are in. DMX believes that it's too hot to be in the streets, so he chooses to retreat from the heat and live another day.
Overall, "Heat" is an intense and powerful portrayal of a criminal lifestyle where danger looms at every turn. DMX gives insight into the mental and physical stress that comes with such a lifestyle, and raises questions about its consequences.
Line by Line Meaning
The heat is on (Are y'all really ready to fly)
The pressure is high and the stakes are even higher. Are you prepared to take on the challenge?
The heat is on (Are y'all really ready to die)
This is a matter of life and death. Are you willing to risk everything for the reward?
The heat is on
The situation is tense and dangerous.
Have your mother ready to cry
The outcome of this risky venture may have serious consequences for loved ones.
The heat is on (High)
The intensity of the situation has risen to new levels.
The heat is on (You know)
The reality of the situation is clear and inescapable.
The heat is on what's my next move
The situation has reached a critical juncture and a decision must be made.
Do I stick with the score, or get with the door
Should I continue with the original plan, or change course and try to escape?
Feds got the drop in the back of the Uhaul
The authorities are onto our plan and have set up a trap.
Snipers on the roof chance of getting away too small
Our chances of successfully escaping are grim.
Tell 'em like this look, it's gonna be a shoot out
We are prepared to use violence if necessary to reach our goal.
Whoever make it out meet back at the new house good luck
If any of us survive, we'll rendezvous at a new location and regroup.
If I don't see you again peace
This may be the last time we see each other alive.
Let's handle our business with these government police
We are going to confront law enforcement and try to evade capture.
You and you go out the front you take the back
We will split up and take different routes to try and avoid the authorities.
You cover the first two and I'll take the sack
We will each take responsibility for different tasks to achieve our common goal.
Boomer didn't make it, neither did Stan
Some of our team members did not survive the shootout.
Now it's three niggas, splitin' four hundred grand (aight)
We have succeeded in obtaining our goal, but it came at a great cost.
We all feel the loss but enjoy the profit
We are grieving the loss of our friends, but also enjoying the fruits of our labor.
The game is the same and nothin' gonna stop it
This is the reality of our criminal world, and nothing can change that.
Most times you make it one time you won't
There are many risks involved in our line of work, and one failure can be fatal.
All a nigga could really do is have a vest under the coat (come on)
All we can do is take whatever precautions we can to try and stay alive during dangerous missions.
Me and my two mans gave money twenty grand
My two associates and I contributed a large sum of money to fund a risky scheme.
For a scam that'll get the condo in the sand
We are attempting to carry out a fraud to obtain a condominium property in a desirable location.
And chances of gettin' caught slim next to none
We believe that the likelihood of being caught is low.
But now we like three deep need that extra gun
We have hit a snag and need more firepower to succeed in our plan.
Bump into my man, I remember from up North
We run into an old friend from our past who we trust and can rely on.
I remember he had principles and wasn't nothin' soft
He is a person of integrity and can handle himself well in a difficult situation.
Off to discuss, just what's going dizzy
We quickly get together to discuss our new plan and set it in motion.
Everybody got it, aight let's get busy
We are all on the same page and ready to take on the task at hand.
Run up in the bank bitch, hit the deck
We forcefully enter the bank and order everyone to get down on the ground.
Yo bust money, and get the keys off his neck (come here)
We demand that the bank teller hands over the money and the keys to the vault.
We on the clock, three mintues until we finished
We are on a tight schedule and must complete our task within three minutes.
Feds are on the way, but I'm tryin' to see spinach
We know that we are being pursued by law enforcement, but we are still focused on getting the money.
In and out, duffle bag across the back
We quickly grab the money and make our escape with the cash in a duffle bag.
Extra long sports coat to cover up the mack
We conceal our firearms with clothing to avoid detection by authorities.
Feds they attack, I spit lead out niggas spread out
We engage in a gunfight with the police and try to create distance between us and them.
Run up on a civilian in his car, make him get out
We carjack an innocent person and use their vehicle to make our getaway.
High speed chasin', racin' through the streets
We are involved in a dangerous high-speed chase with law enforcement through the city streets.
Death's in the air, I can taste it through the heat
The situation is incredibly intense and I feel like death is imminent.
My partner's goin' fast I don't think he's gonna last
One of my accomplices is having trouble keeping up and might not make it through this ordeal alive.
And if he don't, I'ma hit his wife with his half
If my partner dies, I will take his share of the profits and give it to his wife.
That's the type of nigga I am this ain't just rappin'
I am ruthless and will do whatever it takes, even commit murder, to achieve my goals.
I made it, he didn't, but hey, shit happens
I survived the ordeal, but one of my accomplices did not. Such are the risks of our criminal professions.
What can I do, but go on livin'
There is nothing I can do to change the past, so I must move forward with my life.
Tree in front of the condo, I'll throw on a ribbon
I will celebrate my newfound wealth by putting a ribbon on a tree in front of my newly acquired condo.
Life goes on, that might sound wrong but hey
Despite the violent and illegal actions I have taken, life goes on for me and for those around me.
We all live by the rules of the game we play
This is the reality of our criminal world, and we must accept the consequences of our actions.
Day to day, death is a possibility
Every day, we live with the possibility that our lives could end violently.
The way I play is a vest stops you from killin' me
I take whatever precautions I can to try and stay alive during dangerous situations.
It's too hot to be in the heat 'cause it's on
The pressure and danger of our lives is so intense that it feels like being in the middle of a raging fire.
Too hot to be in the streets so I'm gone
I need to get out of this life before it destroys me completely.
Go back to being discreet live long
I need to go back to living a low-profile life in order to stay safe and avoid trouble.
'Til one day, either me or the heat is gone
One day, either I will die or I will finally leave behind the danger and violence of my criminal life.
Come on!
Let's take on this challenge together, and make it out alive.
Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
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