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. Sisqรณ 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".
Prayer III
DMX Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Lord Jesus it is you, who wakes me up every day
And I am forever grateful for your love
This is why I pray
You let me touch so many people, and it's all for the good
I influenced so many children, I never thought that I would
And I couldn't take credit for the love they get
Because it all comes from you Lord
And when it seems like the pressure gets to be too much
I take time out and pray, and ask that you be my crutch
Lord I am not perfect by a long shot, I confess to you daily
But I work harder everyday, and I hope that you hear me
In my heart I mean well, but if you'll help me to grow
Then what I have in my heart, will begin to show
And when I get goin', I'm not lookin' back for nothin'
'Cause I will know where I'm headed, 'cause I'm so tired of the sufferin'
I stand before you, a weakened version of, your reflection
Beggin' for direction, for my soul needs resurrection
I don't deserve what you've given me, but you never took it from me
Because I am grateful, and I use it, and I do not, worship money
If what you want from me is to bring your children to you
My regret is only having one life to do it, instead of two
Amen
The lyrics of DMX's song "Prayer III" express the rapper's deep gratitude to Jesus for waking him up every day and allowing him to touch the lives of so many people, particularly the children he has influenced throughout his career. He acknowledges that the love and inspiration he shares with others ultimately comes from God, and he asks for guidance and support to continue doing good despite the pressures and challenges he faces.
DMX also shares his humble acceptance of his imperfections and his ongoing efforts to grow and improve, both personally and spiritually. He acknowledges that he is not perfect, but he works hard every day to become a better person and hopes that this effort will be reflected in his actions and impact on others. He also expresses a sense of urgency to reach as many people as he can with his message of hope and love, recognizing that he only has one life in which to do so.
Overall, DMX's "Prayer III" is a powerful expression of faith and gratitude, as well as a call to action for all those who listen to his words. It is a testament to his deep spirituality and his commitment to using his talent and platform for the greater good.
Line by Line Meaning
Lord Jesus it is you, who wakes me up every day
I acknowledge you as the reason behind my daily awakening, Lord Jesus.
And I am forever grateful for your love
I'm forever grateful for your unending love towards me, Lord.
This is why I pray
My gratitude towards you, Lord Jesus, is the backbone of my regular prayers.
You let me touch so many people, and it's all for the good
You enable me to positively impact several lives, and I'm glad.
I influenced so many children, I never thought that I would
I'm surprised that I got to impact several children positively.
And I couldn't take credit for the love they get
I acknowledge that it's because of you, Lord, that these children feel loved.
Because it all comes from you Lord
You're the source of all good things, Lord.
I'm just the one that's givin' it
I am just a vessel that shares the love that comes from you, Lord.
And when it seems like the pressure gets to be too much
When things get overwhelming, Lord, I take a step back and ask for your help.
I take time out and pray, and ask that you be my crutch
In times of difficulty, Lord, I turn to you for support and guidance.
Lord I am not perfect by a long shot, I confess to you daily
I admit that I am far from perfect and confess my weaknesses and mistakes to you, Lord, daily.
But I work harder everyday, and I hope that you hear me
Despite my imperfections, Lord, I strive to improve daily, and I hope you notice my efforts.
In my heart I mean well, but if you'll help me to grow
I have good intentions in my heart, Lord, but I ask for your assistance in growing and becoming a better person.
Then what I have in my heart, will begin to show
If you help me grow, Lord, then my true character will start to manifest.
And when I get goin', I'm not lookin' back for nothin'
Once I set out on a path, Lord, I'm determined to keep moving forward no matter the obstacles.
'Cause I will know where I'm headed, 'cause I'm so tired of the sufferin'
I know the direction I'm heading towards, Lord, and I am determined to overcome my struggles and find peace.
I stand before you, a weakened version of, your reflection
Lord, I stand before you as a frail likeness of your image.
Beggin' for direction, for my soul needs resurrection
I humbly ask for guidance, Lord, as my soul requires a revival.
I don't deserve what you've given me, but you never took it from me
I acknowledge that I'm undeserving of your blessings, Lord, but I'm grateful that you haven't taken them away from me.
Because I am grateful, and I use it, and I do not, worship money
I'm grateful for your blessings, Lord, and I utilize them positively, without worshipping money.
If what you want from me is to bring your children to you
If your desire for me, Lord, is to bring people closer to you,
My regret is only having one life to do it, instead of two
then my only regret, Lord, is that I have only one life to fulfill your purpose instead of two.
Amen
So be it, Lord.
Lyrics ยฉ BMG Rights Management, Universal Music Publishing Group, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd., Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Earl Simmons
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
Tanya Murray
"Prayer III
[DMX]
Let us pray
Lord Jesus it is you who wakes me up every day
And I am forever grateful for your love..
.. this is why I pray
You let me touch so many people and it's all for the good
I influenced so many children I never thought that I would
And I couldn't take credit for the love they get
because it all comes from you Lord;
I'm just the one that's givin it
And when it seems like the pressure gets to be too much
I take time out and pray, and ask that you be my crutch
Lord I am not perfect by a longshot -- I confess to you daily
But I work harder everyday, and I hope that you hear me
In my heart I mean well, but if you'll help me to grow
then what I have in my heart, will begin to show
And when I get goin, I'm not lookin back for NOTHIN
Cause I will know where I'm headed, cause I'm so tired of the sufferin
I stand before you, a weakened version of, your reflection
Beggin for direction, for my soul needs resurrection
I don't deserve what you've given me, but you never took it from me
because I am grateful, and I use it, and I do not, worship money
If what you want from me is to bring your children to you
my regret is only having one life to do it, instead of two
Amen
JOY Chiang
Let us pray
Lord Jesus it is you, who wakes me up every day
And I am forever grateful for your love
This is why I pray
You let me touch so many people, and it's all for the good
I influenced so many children, I never thought that I would
And I couldn't take credit for the love they get
Because it all comes from you Lord
I'm just the one that's givin' it
And when it seems like the pressure gets to be too much
I take time out and pray, and ask that you be my crutch
Lord I am not perfect by a long shot, I confess to you daily
But I work harder everyday, and I hope that you hear me
In my heart I mean well, but if you'll help me to grow
Then what I have in my heart, will begin to show
And when I get goin', I'm not lookin' back for nothin'
'Cause I will know where I'm headed, 'cause I'm so tired of the sufferin'
I stand before you, a weakened version of, your reflection
Beggin' for direction, for my soul needs resurrection
I don't deserve what you've given me, but you never took it from me
Because I am grateful, and I use it, and I do not, worship money
If what you want from me is to bring your children to you
My regret is only having one life to do it, instead of two
Amen
Source: LyricFind
Songwriters: Earl Simmons
Prayer III lyrics ยฉ Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd., Warner Chappell Music, Inc, Universal Music Publishing Group
DรจรฉRรฒรณ
X the last hip-hop prophet. Perhaps a martyr to warn the rest of us...
"It's the end of the world now, yeah! Don't start runnin
But could you possibly run when you know that God's comin?
But we got a lot of hard heads that don't seem concerned, what?
So eternally, you burn
An eternity's a long long time, so I wrote a strong rhyme
For these Mc's that only talk about chrome nines
Pay attention to each line, I'm about to reach mine
Be careful cuz they might heat you for just one dime
Blaze up and won't think twice about ya, we dyin quicker
He's dead so what the hell could he do with some liquor?
No value for human life
Can't understand how a woman could leave a baby in the trash can
Damn, helpless and starvin, but that's how life goes
Can't aford him? Then keep your legs closed
Thinkin God won't punish you for what you put that child through
Havin babies like it's the thing to do
What is this world coming to?"
MegaDiva1999
Just heard that this legend is now with the angels. I almost cannot bear it and how prophetic and anointed his prayers are. Even in his passing, he keeps blessing us , praying for us, thinking of us, wishing us well. Thank you.DMX. You are one of kind.
Brother in Christ
Shalom.
Being a believer myself I feel like I must point out so that people aren't living in delusion, but X passing on does not automatically mean that he is with the Angels.
It's unfortunate, but DMX had constantly lived a life of sin with his time on this Earth, and God calls us to repent and change our ways.
Now DMX may have repented to The Lord before, but he certainly had not changed his ways.
So I honestly do not know where DMX's soul actually is right now, and of course we can Hope that he is in Heaven, but this might not be the case.
Huey Freeman
My favourite of all his prayers. Hits my soul everytime i hear it, regardless of the number of times. Spiritually moving.....Salute Mr. Simmons. Legend
Dennis Hanna
Realness
Chappy TV
โAnd Iโm so tired of the sufferingโ
Those words cut me deep man, I know X is up there with his father ๐๐
๐Foxy Boop๐พ
Thank you Lord for your gift of Earl Simmons known to the world as DMX I thank you for knowing our end and our beginning. I thank you for your grace and mercy and only you and DMX knows what your conversation was like while he was gone in body but not in soul.
Your fight is over X, Rest in Power ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐
AC1980 Zabala
This prayer was everything. I use to replay this so much. I always knew he would change, he struggled but he was real
D James
RIP DMX you effected more lives then you will ever know
ddawg284
He knew chief, he knew. RIP legend!! ๐ข
Adriane Contreras
This just hits different now.. No more suffering.. Rest easy Dark Man X ๐๐ค๐ฆ