Earl Simmons, popularly known as the rap artist DMX, passed away on April 9, 2021 at the age of 50. Born on December 18, 1970 in Mount Vernon, New York, DMX was an early innovator in hip hop music, combining raw and aggressive lyrical delivery with emotionally charged topics. DMX’s debut studio album, Run-DMC's It’s Dark and Hell Is Hot (1998), was a huge success, making him the first rapper in history to have his first five albums reach the top of the Billboard 200 chart. DMX went on to collaborate with popular artists such as Eve, Jay-Z, and Nas, and was featured on the hit single "Party Up (Up in Here)" from the 1999 album Flesh of My Flesh, Blood of My Blood. This was followed by three additional albums — The Great Depression (2001), Grand Champ (2003) and Year of the Dog…Again (2006) — which further cemented his place in the hip hop industry. DMX’s impressive career also included several successful acting roles, including in the film "Romeo Must Die” (2000), and in the television series “Rita Rocks” (2009). A vibrant performer with a powerful stage presence, DMX will be remembered for raising the bar in hip hop and influencing an entire generation of rap fans with his unique style. Simmons is survived by his 15 children and his loving family.