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".
Spit That Shit
DMX Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Show these niggas how dark this shit get
'Cause I'ma spit that shit
Show these niggas how dark this shit get
'Cause I'ma spit that shit
Show these niggas how dark this shit get
'Cause I'ma spit that shit
Shit pop off, we don't blow it up 'til we blow it up
Cats better slow it up, y'all niggas know what's up
My niggas throw it up; we all know that
In fact, niggas missing the action, where are they at?
See, you niggas never really been ducked out
But got enough mouth to get snuffed out; roof the rough route
We don't play around here, nigga, we're grown
Start applying pressure, give the dog a bone
I'm taking half; it's just that simple
Or I can start popping niggas like pimples
I'ma let you call it, you ballin'
'Til you get hit with them hot things, now you're staggering and fallin'
I'm holding up the wall, you got more than enough problems in the floor
You're just wasting a nigga's time; come on, man
I got shit to do, like hit your crew
Might hit your crib, so what that bitch gon' do
Not a damn thing, but dawg's with the program
Beast on that bitch like Conan, whoa man
I'ma go where no man has ever gone
Nigga, when it's on, it's on, I'll let you know when the fuck it's on
I got nothing to hide, but you got a reason to run
Come through like BRRAT, to the squeeze of the gun
And that's just squeezing one, imagine if we all let go
And turn your whole block into a death row
I'ma spit that shit
Show these niggas how dark this shit get
'Cause I'ma spit that shit
Show these niggas how dark this shit get
I'ma spit that shit
Show these niggas how dark this shit get
'Cause I'ma spit that shit
Show these niggas how dark this shit get
Between me and you, I'd be in the dark for too long
Bark is too strong, hot light is on
Whatever it's gon' be, that's what it is
I didn't stutter, motherfucka, put that on your kids
Built for war, built for raw
Built for more, built from it all for the dog to the floor
I've been getting down before I knew what getting down was
Shit, I just do what a real nigga does
Get anything straight up
If shit starts falling apart, wait up, let's get this rent paid up
So it's square one, and a nigga can't get a fair one at
Any time of the day, but a nigga can run
Keep shit moving, doing what the fuck we be doin'
They're coming to 'em, but I'm running through 'em
I don't need the headache, I've never been talking to death
But I'll fuck you to death; what the fuck you left?
I don't want nothing, but some fucking pussy
I ain't trying to be all cuddled up, talking getting mushy
Been there, done that, with that one back there
From when there was none of that to when there was some of that
Niggas still come back, hood for life
Shit, quiet as a cat nigga, where's my wife?
For the night, that's what it be
Or if its good for tomorrow cause tomorrow well see
Take it one day at a time, my end's in the street
Don't fear my feast, your man's in the heat
That's how the dog gets down on all fours
After a certain hour, I'm knocking on all doors
Anything goes when it's on, motherfucka
Whether you're friend or foe, you gon' lend some dough
And in case you don't know, that nigga don't owe
Whatever I come up on, let that shit go
Faggot
I'ma spit that shit
Show these niggas how dark this shit get
'Cause I'ma spit that shit
Show these niggas how dark this shit get
I'ma spit that shit
Show these niggas how dark this shit get
'Cause I'ma spit that shit
Show these niggas how dark this shit get
The lyrics of DMX's song "Rock That Shit" convey his willingness to reveal the "dark" side of his character, as well as his ability to handle himself when things get rough. In the first two lines, DMX asserts his ability to spit deep and dark lyrics, which will enlighten his audience, asserting that his words will serve as a warning to anyone attempting to interfere with his business.
In the next few lines, DMX reveals his readiness to engage in violent conflict to protect his credibility and reputation as a rapper. He warns his opponents that they are playing with fire and should stop provoking him. DMX also points out that he has no time for idle talk and that he is focused on getting the job done.
Later on, DMX highlights his commitment to his craft, using his life experiences as inspiration for his lyrics. DMX also reveals a softer side of his persona, stating that he is willing to pursue a romantic relationship but wants no part in anything more than casual sex.
Overall, "Rock That Shit" showcases DMX's lyrical prowess and his unique mix of vulnerability and raw aggression.
Line by Line Meaning
'Cause I'ma spit that shit
I'm going to speak my truth and show everyone what I'm made of
Show these niggas how dark this shit get
I'm not holding back and am willing to go to the darkest depths to prove my point
Shit pop off, we don't blow it up 'til we blow it up
We won't escalate a situation until we have to go all out
Cats better slow it up, y'all niggas know what's up
People need to think twice before they mess with us - they know who we are and what we're capable of
My niggas throw it up; we all know that
My crew represents and we're all on the same page
In fact, niggas missing the action, where are they at?
Some people talk big but aren't around when things get real
See, you niggas never really been ducked out
You've never truly been in a dangerous or difficult situation
But got enough mouth to get snuffed out; roof the rough route
You talk too much and could get yourself into trouble; you're taking the dangerous path
We don't play around here, nigga, we're grown
We don't mess around and take life seriously
Start applying pressure, give the dog a bone
We don't back down and will make those who challenge us pay for it
I'm taking half; it's just that simple
I'll take what's rightfully mine and it's not negotiable
Or I can start popping niggas like pimples
If you don't give me what I want, I can easily resort to violence
I'ma let you call it, you ballin'
I'll let you make the choice, but know that I'm in control
‘Til you get hit with them hot things, now you're staggering and fallin'
If you don't make the right choice, you'll get hurt and end up on the ground
I'm holding up the wall, you got more than enough problems in the floor
I'm in charge here and you've got bigger issues to worry about
You're just wasting a nigga's time; come on, man
You're not taking things seriously and are wasting my time
I got shit to do, like hit your crew
I've got more important things to do, like taking down your entire crew
Might hit your crib, so what that bitch gon' do
I might even come after you at your own home, what are you going to do about it?
Not a damn thing, but dawg's with the program
You won't do anything, but you know how it is and that I'm in charge
Beast on that bitch like Conan, whoa man
I'll go after her with everything I have, like a beast
I'ma go where no man has ever gone
I'm not afraid to push boundaries and take risks
Nigga, when it's on, it's on, I'll let you know when the fuck it's on
When things escalate, I'll make sure you know it
I got nothing to hide, but you got a reason to run
I'm not afraid of anything, but you have a reason to be scared
Come through like BRRAT, to the squeeze of the gun
I'll come through quickly and forcefully with a gun
And that's just squeezing one, imagine if we all let go
If we all started shooting, it would be a bloodbath
And turn your whole block into a death row
We have the power to take out an entire neighborhood if we wanted to
Between me and you, I'd be in the dark for too long
I've been through some tough times and felt alone
Bark is too strong, hot light is on
I'm confident and will not back down
Whatever it's gon' be, that's what it is
The future is uncertain, but we'll deal with whatever comes our way
I didn't stutter, motherfucka, put that on your kids
I said what I meant and won't take it back
Built for war, built for raw
I'm tough and ready to fight
Built for more, built from it all for the dog to the floor
I've been through a lot and it's made me strong
I've been getting down before I knew what getting down was
I've been through tough times before I knew how to handle them
Shit, I just do what a real nigga does
I handle things the way that a tough and confident person would
Get anything straight up
I won't beat around the bush and will be straightforward with you
If shit starts falling apart, wait up, let's get this rent paid up
When things get tough, let's focus on what's important and get our priorities straight
So it's square one, and a nigga can't get a fair one at
We're starting fresh and there's no room for negotiation
Any time of the day, but a nigga can run
We're always ready to handle a situation, but some people might choose to run away
Keep shit moving, doing what the fuck we be doin'
Let's keep going and keep doing what we're good at
They're coming to 'em, but I'm running through 'em
People might be coming after us, but we're tough enough to handle them
I don't need the headache, I've never been talking to death
I don't want to waste my time talking- let's handle things quickly and efficiently
But I'll fuck you to death; what the fuck you left?
If I need to, I'll be violent and won't hold back
I don't want nothing, but some fucking pussy
I have simple desires and am not looking for much
I ain't trying to be all cuddled up, talking getting mushy
I don't want any romantic relationships or to get too emotional with anyone
Been there, done that, with that one back there
I've been in relationships before and don't want to go there again
From when there was none of that to when there was some of that
I've dated before and know what it's like
Niggas still come back, hood for life
People still come back to the streets and the lifestyle that comes with it
Shit, quiet as a cat nigga, where's my wife?
I'm tough and not wanting emotional relationships, but sometimes I do feel lonely
For the night, that's what it be
I might have someone around for the night, but it's not a long-term commitment
Or if its good for tomorrow cause tomorrow well see
Maybe we'll see if it's worth pursuing something more tomorrow, but it's not a guarantee
Take it one day at a time, my end's in the street
I'm taking life one day at a time and know that it'll probably end in the streets
Don't fear my feast, your man's in the heat
Don't be scared of me, I'm always ready to fight
That's how the dog gets down on all fours
That's how I handle things and fight back
After a certain hour, I'm knocking on all doors
I'm fearless and will keep going no matter what
Anything goes when it's on, motherfucka
All bets are off and anything can happen
Whether you're friend or foe, you gon' lend some dough
Whether you're an ally or enemy, you'll pay up if I need money
And in case you don't know, that nigga don't owe
Don't forget that I'm in charge and don't owe anyone anything
Whatever I come up on, let that shit go
If I take something that's yours, just let it go and don't fight back
Faggot
Insult directed at someone who is weak or not tough enough
Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
Written by: Patrick Gallo, Earl Simmons
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind