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".
The Story
DMX Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
I'ma rob this nigga, and when I'm done, I'ma slay him
For being stupid like, comin' through after 1 or 2
And havin' a gun that he couldn't get to, yeah, that one'll do
Foolish niggas learn the hard way, then I teach 'em
Be in the wrong place at the wrong time, then I reach 'em
Like Jigga said, "Niggas test you when your gun goes warm"
So I keep 'em scattering like roaches, when the light come on
3-57 slugs with a snub nose, trey eight
Settin' all them issues straight, squashing all beefs
To the point where the police was lockin' all streets
They got me trapped off in the building, but you know how that go
I stay fucking with the hood rats, I run up in the rat hole
Run through the hallway, see police, face to face
And being I'm telling you this story, means I caught another case
It's either you or me
And more than likely, it's gonna be you, than me
Aiight? Feel me yo
Day 2 of the saga, this fucking drama continues
Waking up like every 2 hours, looking out my window
Plus I keep the 4-4 pointed at the door just in case
When they bust in, I bust them and I'm gunning for the face
"What a waste of potential" is what my teachers used to tell me
"You can always get a job" and peep shit they tried to sell me
Got me no where but broke and fucked up in the game
But now I got a name, and niggas know my name
Knock of the door "Police! We're looking for a man,
Who killed a couple of cops last night and the reward is ten grand"
I play like a bitch "Its just me here, and I'm not dressed
And that guy sounds kind of dangerous, I hope you make an arrest"
It was a close one, now I know I gotta get outta the city
'Cause I know I'm hotter than lava, I'll holla tomorrow
Hit my dog on the horn, he like "Fuck, you done did?!
They done ran up in my crib, nigga, patting down my kid!"
Put the harness on the dog, load up the weapons
Murder's on my mind, no half steppin'
Motherfuckers want war, you can get it,
'Cause I'm tired of runnin', remember me as the nigga that died gunnin'
Kamikaze mission, C-4 strapped to the chest
Run up in that joint, raw dog, fuck the vest
They can keep theirs, because it won't be the slugs that'll kill 'em
It'll be the raw, or the C-4 as I'm bringin' down the building
When I go, taking a bunch of the motherfuckers with me
I ain't sitting around waiting for them fagot niggas to come and get me
I bring it to 'em, service with a smile
What nigga? Didn't know a dog with rabies was in the cut, nigga?
Now that you finally findin' out what this shit means
I'm at the precinct, 116th
Run up in there
Open up my jacket "You motherfuckers lookin' for me?"
Well here I am "Now you comin' with me"
The song "Crime Story" by DMX is a narrated story of a criminal living a life of recklessness and danger. The rapper depicts a life of crime in its raw and brutal state, as the lyrics paint a picture of darkness and death. The song is a warning to those who may be tempted by the glamor or excitement of criminal life to think twice. The opening verses of the song see DMX playing a robber who stalks his victim and eventually murders them. He speaks on how foolish people who come out at odd hours to show off their guns are easy targets. DMX also states that he revels in his power over the weak, teaching them about life after death, and leave a lasting impact on their souls.
Line by Line Meaning
Who is this I see, coming through, it's like 3 on the a.m
DMX sees someone he is going to rob in the early morning hours.
I'ma rob this nigga, and when I'm done, I'ma slay him
DMX plans to both rob and kill the person he has spotted.
For being stupid like, comin' through after 1 or 2
DMX believes the person he has targeted is foolish for walking around at this time.
And havin' a gun that he couldn't get to, yeah, that one'll do
DMX believes that the target's incompetence with their gun will make his job easier.
Foolish niggas learn the hard way, then I teach 'em
People who behave foolishly will face a harsh consequence.
Be in the wrong place at the wrong time, then I reach 'em
Violence can happen to anyone, even those who are innocent.
Like Jigga said, "Niggas test you when your gun goes warm"
People will try to make a move against you when they know you have expended ammo from your gun.
So I keep 'em scattering like roaches, when the light come on
DMX scares his opponents away when he is in the vicinity.
From night 'til dawn, right from wrong, hold no weight
In a criminal mindset, the line between good and evil is blurred.
3-57 slugs with a snub nose, trey eight
DMX carries two different types of guns for different situations.
Settin' all them issues straight, squashing all beefs
DMX resolves conflicts and fights to prevent bloodshed.
To the point where the police was lockin' all streets
DMX's fighting has caused the police to take measures to stop him.
They got me trapped off in the building, but you know how that go
DMX got trapped inside a building surrounded by police.
I stay fucking with the hood rats, I run up in the rat hole
DMX is involved with women from the hood and runs around in those areas.
Run through the hallway, see police, face to face
DMX suddenly comes face to face with the police as he runs through a hallway amids chaos.
And being I'm telling you this story, means I caught another case
DMX is recounting the events that led to another crime.
It's either you or me
DMX says it is a fight to the death.
And more than likely, it's gonna be you, than me
DMX believes that he is better at surviving compared to his opponents.
Aiight? Feel me yo
Do you understand what I mean?
Day 2 of the saga, this fucking drama continues
The next day the ongoing drama and action continues.
Waking up like every 2 hours, looking out my window
DMX is paranoid and keeps watch frequently.
Plus I keep the 4-4 pointed at the door just in case
DMX keeps a gun pointed at the entrance of his location in case someone tries to attack him.
When they bust in, I bust them and I'm gunning for the face
DMX is trigger happy and aims for the head when he is faced with danger.
"What a waste of potential" is what my teachers used to tell me
DMX's teachers believed that he was not fulfilling his potential and wasted his talent.
"You can always get a job" and peep shit they tried to sell me
DMX was told he could get an honest job to make a living, but he did not take their advice.
Got me no where but broke and fucked up in the game
DMX is currently broke and his lifestyle is a mess.
But now I got a name, and niggas know my name
DMX is now known for his reputation.
Knock of the door "Police! We're looking for a man,
The police come looking for DMX to make an arrest.
Who killed a couple of cops last night and the reward is ten grand"
Police suspect DMX killed two officers and they offer a reward for his capture.
I play like a bitch "Its just me here, and I'm not dressed
DMX pretends to be weak and unprepared in front of the police.
And that guy sounds kind of dangerous, I hope you make an arrest"
DMX tries to mislead the police and hope they make an arrest.
It was a close one, now I know I gotta get outta the city
DMX narrowly avoids being arrested and realizes he needs to leave town.
'Cause I know I'm hotter than lava, I'll holla tomorrow
DMX thinks he is at risk of getting caught by the police and plans to leave town immediately.
Put the harness on the dog, load up the weapons
DMX prepares with his trained dog and loads up his weapons.
Murder's on my mind, no half steppin'
DMX is thinking about committing murder without hesitation.
Motherfuckers want war, you can get it,
DMX is ready to fight and kill anyone who wants to start a conflict with him.
'Cause I'm tired of runnin', remember me as the nigga that died gunnin'
DMX is tired of running and is ready to accept death with his gun in hand.
Kamikaze mission, C-4 strapped to the chest
DMX plans to suicide bomb his opponents with the explosive C-4.
Run up in that joint, raw dog, fuck the vest
DMX will attack regardless of any protection his opponents may have.
They can keep theirs, because it won't be the slugs that'll kill 'em
DMX believes the explosive C-4 is more dangerous than his guns.
It'll be the raw, or the C-4 as I'm bringin' down the building
DMX is willing to sacrifice his life to kill his enemies.
When I go, taking a bunch of the motherfuckers with me
DMX wants to take his opponents with him when he dies.
I ain't sitting around waiting for them fagot niggas to come and get me
DMX is not going to wait around for his enemies to come attack him.
I bring it to 'em, service with a smile
DMX actively seeks out his enemies and confronts them.
What nigga? Didn't know a dog with rabies was in the cut, nigga?
DMX surprises his enemies with his trained and dangerous dog.
Now that you finally findin' out what this shit means
DMX's enemies are finally realizing the gravity of the situation they are in.
I'm at the precinct, 116th
DMX is at the police station, location 116th.
Run up in there
DMX enters the police station.
Open up my jacket "You motherfuckers lookin' for me?"
DMX taunts the police by revealing himself while asking if they were looking for him.
Well here I am "Now you comin' with me"
DMX surrenders to police and knows he will be taken into custody.
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd., Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: EARL SIMMONS, FREDERICK J. PERREN, IRVING DOMINGO LORENZO, ROBIN ANDRE MAYS
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
Yoyi's Life
DMX is a legend. I have been listening to him since day one. Nobody has that voice and talks about such cool shit like X
keemkeeley
Rip forever a legend and forever embedded in our hearts and souls this is one of my favorite songs by you low key a hidden gem thank you for everything rip!!!
D Antonova
Dmx is not for everybody💯 Only the real will understand 👀
Vashe Mcmillan Bvuta
well said
glory boy
Dee Anton true
emmanuel j
G shit
dexcover99
word
mizmunchkin1982
If everyone had real taste and recognized talent and not ass kissing bullshit than he would be for everybody.... But hey, that is their loss right?
Zaccheri Gray
This embodies what hip hop is supposed to be. Story telling. I love this shit.
Tada Janvier
Woah. This is pure perfection 👏😮 well done DMX ❤