DMX

DMX’s Debut “It’s Dark & Hell Is Hot” Turns 25

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Hip Hop lost one of its best soldiers when DMX passed away. The Rap icon struggled throughout his life but didn’t let his obstacles stop him from becoming one of the most inspirational artists the culture has ever seen. If there is a chance to celebrate the life and talents of DMX, we won’t miss it. As we commemorate the 25th anniversary of DMX’s debut album, It’s Dark & Hell Is Hot, we remember the legendary rapper’s impact. Let’s revisit the groundbreaking release that helped solidify Earl Simmons as a Rap legend.

A (Gentle) Beast From New York

American rapper DMX in March, 2004 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Gregory Bojorquez/Getty Images)

Born Earl Simmons in 1970, DMX rose to prominence in the late 1990s. DMX spoke at end about his tough upbringing, often enduring abuse from his mother and finding solace on the streets. There, he would discover friendships in abandoned or wild street dogs. While they were a threat to others, they found comfort in Simmons. The partnership would become DMX’s staple, often barking in songs or keeping dogs by his side.

The rapper’s raw, aggressive style and introspective lyrics about personal struggle and faith set him apart from his contemporaries. Before his debut album, DMX gained attention through his electrifying live performances and guest appearances on tracks like LL Cool J’s “4, 3, 2, 1” and Mase’s “24 Hrs To Live.”

It’s Dark & Hell Is Hot Storms The World

DMX’s debut album, It’s Dark & Hell Is Hot, was released on May 19, 1998, courtesy of Ruff Ryders Entertainment and Def Jam Recordings. The album showcased DMX’s signature growling delivery and hard-hitting lyrics. With Swizz Beatz, Dame Grease, and P.K. productions, the album featured an array of dark, atmospheric beats that perfectly complemented DMX’s intense style. Still, his gentler approach to songs like “How It’s Goin’ Down” resonated with women. Soon, DMX was finding mass appeal.

It’s Dark & Hell Is Hot included several standout tracks, such as “Ruff Ryders’ Anthem,” “Get At Me Dog,” and “Stop Being Greedy.” The album also featured guest appearances from fellow Ruff Ryders members like The LOX, Drag-On, and Eve. This cemented DMX in the mainstream and showed that the collective was expanding exponentially.

Critical Acclaim

Upon its release, It’s Dark & Hell Is Hot garnered widespread praise and commercial success. The album debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart, selling over 250,000 copies in its first week. It went on to achieve quadruple-platinum status, with more than four million copies sold in the United States.

The album’s lead single, “Get At Me Dog,” reached No. 39 on the Billboard Hot 100, while “Ruff Ryders’ Anthem” and “Stop Being Greedy” also enjoyed charting success. The project set the stage for what was to arrive from DMX’s catalog. The introduction to the New York emcee was arguably one of his most vulnerable with commercial appeal.

DMX’s Influence Is Unmatched

It’s Dark & Hell Is Hot had a lasting impact on hip hop, as DMX’s authenticity echoed throughout. Although the trauma manifested itself lyrically and personally, he was unapologetic about who he was. He never kept his Christian faith a secret and often would stop during live shows to pray over the crowd. This battle between what was and who he wanted to be was palpable, and his debut record was the beginning of his public journey. Much of who DMX was contrasted with the materialism and flashy lifestyles often depicted in rap. However, his influence can be found in many growling, raspy-voiced artists who emerged after him.

The Death Of An Icon

INGLEWOOD, CA – OCTOBER 04: DMX performs onstage during the Bad Boy Family Reunion Tour at The Forum on October 4, 2016 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images for Live Nation)

DMX tragically passed away on April 9, 2021, after suffering a heart attack. The rapper was hospitalized before his passing, and the worldwide response was unlike any other. Well wishes and kind words poured in, but sadly, DMX succumbed to his ailments. Many of his contemporaries highlighted DMX’s significant impact on their lives, personally and professionally, and celebrated his undeniable influence on the culture.

In the wake of his death, DMX’s music experienced a resurgence in popularity, with fans revisiting It’s Dark & Hell Is Hot and his subsequent albums. Streaming services reported a significant increase in DMX’s music consumption, underscoring fans’ lasting connection with his artistry. As we reflect on the album’s 25-year journey, let’s honor DMX’s memory by appreciating the unforgettable mark he left behind.

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[WATCH] DMX’s Goddaughter Paige Hurd Reveals They Were Once Kicked Out Of Six Flags For Weed Possession

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A few years ago I shared my personal DMX stories from my time in Harlem with the legendary rapper. Now his goddaughter Paige Hurd revealed they were once kicked out of Six Flags for weed possession.

In a recent interview with Preme Magazine, Hurd said during the early days of getting to know one another as co-stars in Cradle 2 The Grave, Hurd was petrified of going to Six Flags with X and her sister because she was afraid of going on roller coasters or amusement park rides.

“Like right before we were filming Cradle 2 the Grave, we had to do like daddy-daughter bonding,” she began. “He came to pick me up from my house… And he was taking us to Six Flags. Now, I’m claustrophobic I do not do roller coasters, I don’t do theme parks.

“I was like, ‘Yeah, well, I don’t ride rollercoasters.’ He was like, ‘Well, you are today.’ I was freaking out the entire way there. He drives very fast. I’m pretty sure we could all imagine. Very, very fast in this small car and we’re driving down the 5 freeway [and he] misses the exit. You think he goes to the next exit? Middle of the freeway, reverses and reverses down the on-ramp to get up.

dmx

“We get to Six Flags and me and my sister are terrified we have to get on these rides. And by the grace of God, weed was not legal then. They found weed and we got kicked out before we even got in. And I am like, ‘I’m the Lord’s child. He loves him some Paige.’ Then we ended up going to the mall, KFC and hanging out for the day. That’s one of my first memories that we’ve had.”

The actress also shared she will follow in X’s footsteps as she’s preparing for the release of a rap album, Hurd U, later this year featuring collabs with Meek Mill, 21 Savage and more.
Watch below.

The post [WATCH] DMX’s Goddaughter Paige Hurd Reveals They Were Once Kicked Out Of Six Flags For Weed Possession appeared first on The Source.

Swizz Beatz Remebers DMX On “Ruff Ryders’ Anthem” Anniversary

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On the 25th anniversary of “Ruff Ryders Anthem,” Swizz Beatz took to social media to remember his dear friend, DMX. The renowned producer talked about how the success of the iconic song propelled his career forward. According to him, it set him on the path that led to where he is now. In doing so, he also paid tribute to the late rapper. The track “Ruff Ryders Anthem” was the third single from DMX’s album It’s Dark & Hell is Hot. When it was released, it only reached No. 93 on the Billboard Hot 100. However, after DMX’s death in April 2021, it hit a new peak at No. 16. Swizz Beatz has frequently expressed his love and admiration for his late friend in the past.

Swizz Beatz has been vocal about his grief over DMX’s passing. He has frequently shared tributes to the late rapper on social media. Furthermore, he has posted photos and videos of them together, shared personal anecdotes, and expressed his admiration and respect. Swizz Beatz and DMX had a long history together, with Swizz producing many of DMX’s hit songs and being one of his closest collaborators. It’s clear that DMX’s death has deeply affected Swizz, as well as many others in the music industry and beyond.

DMX Came To Swizz In A Dream

In an interview with The Breakfast Club on April 26, Swizz Beatz discussed a vivid dream he had. In it he says felt the spirit of his late friend and rap legend, DMX. Before revealing his supernatural experience, Swizz said that he felt like DMX wasn’t even gone. “Man, honestly, it don’t even feel like he’s gone,” he said. “It just feels like he’s away, somewhere chillin’. And then the anniversary will come around… and I’m like, ‘Whoa.’”

Swizz went on to describe his dream about the late rapper. “But the thing that make me feel easy about it is he came to me,” he continued. “I seen him in my dream. He came to me. And this was, like, super quick too. And he let me know he was good. I’m the person that be like, ‘He ain’t come to see you, what you talkin’ about?’ I seen him. I felt him.” What do you think about Swizz Beatz tribute to the late DMX? Let us know in the comments!

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DMX Net Worth 2023: What Is The Legend Worth?

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DMX, born Earl Simmons, was a legendary American rapper and actor who left an indelible mark on the music industry. But what is the net worth of the deceased Hip Hop legend in 2023? In this article, we will explore the life, career, and financial struggles of this iconic artist.

DMX Net Worth

Despite his musical success and widespread fame, DMX’s net worth in 2023 is estimated to be -$1 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth.

DMX: Early Life and Rise to Fame

DMX Live
(Photo by Theo Wargo/Getty Images)

DMX was born on December 18, 1970, in Mount Vernon, New York, and grew up in Yonkers. His rough upbringing molded him into a resilient individual. DMX began his music career in the early 1990s and rose to fame with his debut album It’s Dark and Hell Is Hot in 1998. The album was a massive success, going quadruple platinum and launching DMX’s career as a prominent figure in the hip-hop scene.

DMX’s Prolific Career

DMX at MTV
DMX during DMX, Mobb Deep, Olivia and Rick Ross Visit MTV’s “Sucker Free Week” – April 6, 2006 at MTV Studios – Times Square in New York City, New York, United States. (Photo by Michael Loccisano/FilmMagic)

Over the course of his career, DMX released seven studio albums, with several reaching platinum status. His distinctive voice and raw, aggressive lyrics resonated with fans worldwide. Some of his most popular songs include “Ruff Ryders’ Anthem,” “Party Up (Up in Here),” and “X Gon’ Give It to Ya.” In addition to his music, DMX also dabbled in acting, appearing in films such as Romeo Must Die, Cradle 2 The Grave, and Exit Wounds.

Financial Struggles

DMX on stage
DMX during First Annual Spike TV Video Game Awards – Show and Backstage at MGM Grand Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada, United States. (Photo by Chris Polk/FilmMagic)

Despite his commercial success, DMX struggled financially throughout his life. He filed for bankruptcy multiple times, with his most recent filing in 2013. DMX cited his child support obligations for 15 children, outstanding debts, and poor financial management as the primary reasons for his financial turmoil. His legal troubles, including arrests for tax evasion, aggravated his financial situation.

The Impact Of His Death On Net Worth

DMX in Miami.
DMX performs at The Source Hip-Hop Music Awards 2001 at the Jackie Gleason Theater in Miami Beach, Florida. 8/20/01 Photo by Scott Gries/ImageDirect

DMX passed away on April 9, 2021, after suffering a heart attack. His untimely death brought renewed attention to his music, causing a surge in streaming numbers and album sales. However, his net worth remained in the negatives due to his outstanding debts and unresolved legal issues.

Legacy and Lasting Influence

DMX's legendary Woodstock performance.
DMX during Woodstock ’99 in Saugerties, New York in Saugerties, New York, United States. (Photo by KMazur/WireImage)

Despite his financial struggles, the rapper’s impact on the music industry and his fans is undeniable. His aggressive, gritty, and emotionally charged music continues to influence new generations of artists, while his vulnerability in addressing his personal struggles with addiction and mental health has resonated with countless fans.

The Future of DMX’s Estate

DMX & <a href=Swizz Beatz. ” class=”wp-image-671222″ srcset=”https://editor.urbanlinx.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/GettyImages-589073968.jpg 1024w, https://editor.urbanlinx.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/GettyImages-589073968.jpg?resize=300,200 300w, https://editor.urbanlinx.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/GettyImages-589073968.jpg?resize=768,512 768w” sizes=”(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px” />
NEW YORK, NY – AUGUST 12: Swiss Beatz and DMX during Swizz Beatz And Bacardi Present No Commission NY: Art Perform – Day 2 on August 12, 2016 in New York City. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/WireImage)

While DMX’s net worth at the time of his death remained negative, his estate has the potential to generate revenue through music royalties, merchandise sales, and potential posthumous releases. It remains to be seen how his estate will be managed and whether it will be able to resolve his outstanding debts and provide for his surviving family members.

Conclusion/TLDR

DMX’s -$1 million net worth in 2023 is a stark reminder that fame and success do not always guarantee financial stability. His life story serves as a cautionary tale of the importance of financial management and the potential pitfalls of fame. Nevertheless, DMX’s legacy as a pioneering artist in the hip-hop genre will continue to live on, transcending his financial struggles.

[WATCH] Swizz Beatz Says DMX Losing a Bet Led to “Ruff Ryders’ Anthem”

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Swizz Beatz Says DMX Losing a Bet Led to "Ruff Ryders' Anthem"

We all know the greatness of “Ruff Ryders’ Anthem.” Would you believe that DMX ended up on the single as a result of a bet?

Swizz Beatz pulled up on Sirius XM’s Hip-Hop Nation and revealed the beat didn’t specifically thrill the rapper, but he found his way on it due to losing a bet.

“X lost a bet or I wouldn’t even been on that album,” Swizz said. “That song ended up changing all of our lives. So he technically won the bet for my Uncle D and you know that just changed all of our lives. So it was just enough to do what it needed to do.”

You can hear the full story from Swizz Beatz below.

The post [WATCH] Swizz Beatz Says DMX Losing a Bet Led to “Ruff Ryders’ Anthem” appeared first on The Source.

Swizz Beatz Divulges On Dream About DMX

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Swizz Beatz has collaborated and connected with some of rap’s greatest voices. From Lil Wayne to Jay-Z there are not many artists that Swizz hasn’t made magic on a track with. Recently the Ruff Ryders DJ put out a project last week, Hip Hop 50: Vol 2. The EP follows DJ Premiers Hip Hop 50: Vol 1 honoring the 50th anniversary of hip-hop. The tape is star-studded and filled with dope songs in a short and neatly packed six-tracks. Following the release of the project, Swizz Beatz sat down with The Breakfast Club for an interview.

The producer tycoon told the hosts that he saw DMX in one of his dreams. The rap legend assured him that he was okay in the afterlife. Additionally, during the interview, Swizz Beatz shared details about his vision of the late rap icon saying he could “feel” X’s spirit. “Man, honestly, I don’t even feel he’s like he’s gone,” he said to The Breakfast Club. “It feels like he’s somewhere chillin’. And then the anniversary will come around or I’ll speak to his fiancee or I’ll speak to his son and I’m like ‘Whoa.’” Swizz continued, “Or I’ll see a video or scroll through my phone and see pictures and it’ll hit me.” Moreover, He told the radio hosts that it was easier for him to deal with all seeing that DMX came to him in his dream.

Swizz Beatz Has A Visitor In His Dreams

Moreover, the legendary producer gave more details as to how he felt X’s presence. “I seen him. I felt him, I could smell like-I just couldn’t hear him talk,” Swizz said. Following that, Charlamagne Tha God asked if DMX looked “young” or “healthy,” the super producer responded: “He looked like from when I last seen him.” He revealed that it was being able to see X in the last state he saw him in that made it real for him. “I came and grabbed him. We always used to wrestle and play around like little brothers, and so I wrestle him to the floor and we wrestlin’ and he laughin’.’” However, Swizz mentions he still can’t hear or talk to the late rapper.

“Then he got up, and grabbed both of my arms and he just looked at me and was like, ‘I’m good.’ And once I seen that my whole energy started changing,” said the Ruff Ryders rep. Not only that, Swizz also made note that he saw an “X” above his house making the moment more surreal for him. He took a picture and posted it. Has anyone ever visited you in your dreams? Let the HNHH staff know below!

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Swizz Beatz Songs: His Party-Starting Productions

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If you know Swizz Beatz, you know his productions can get the party started. Swizz has been a producer for decades and has always had records to get you to move your body. He brings energy to a song when he produces it, not to mention his ad-libs in the background. That’s how he made his name in Hip Hop. His biggest hits have been party records.

You can say the Bronx native brought the energy back to Hip Hop whenever he dropped these records. He’s worked with the best of the best, and we can’t forget how he and Ruff Ryders had Hip Hop in a chokehold. Swizz Beatz is truly one of the best producers that the music industry. has ever seen. He has made a lot of records for the club that still plays today. Check out his most significant party starters with some of Rap’s biggest names.

7. “Party Up (Up In Here)”- DMX (1999)

“Party Up (Up In Here)” is a song that raises the energy once it begins. It’s like no one can control themselves. This is one of DMX’s best songs and one of the most infamous tracks in Hip Hop. It was nominated for a Grammy in 2001 for Best Rap Solo Performance. Swizz Beatz proves time and time again that he is a genius at this. His collaborations with DMX are some of his best.

6. “Tambourine”- Eve (2006)

Swizz Beatz knows just what to do to get the party started. Since being a part of Ruff Ryders, Eve has worked with Swizz from day one. She had a few hits before “Tambourine,” but this is one of her more popular singles. You can still hear this song in movies and television shows today. Eve made sure to make something for the ladies to groove to. In the video, Eve shows you exactly how to do the “Tambourine” dance. Swizz Beatz songs seem to capture his signature elements while standing out among his productions as unique sounds.

5. “Uproar”- Lil Wayne (2018)

Swizz Beatz gave Lil Wayne a New York-type beat, and Weezy excelled. The superproducer sampled G.Dep’s hit song “Special Delivery” for “Uproar.” The double platinum record was a Top 10 hit for Wayne. “Special Delivery” was a massive success song when it came out in 2001. Everyone was doing the Harlem Shake when this song came on. Swizz and Wayne brought back the nostalgia with their record.

4. “Whuteva”- Remy Ma ft. Swizz Beatz (2006)

From day one, Remy Ma has worked with Swizz Beatz. It didn’t take long for them to get their first hit. Besides being down with Fat Joe and the Terror Squad, Remy broke through with “Whuteva.” It’s a fun song to sing along to as well as the chorus is too easy to forget. “Whuteva” is one of those songs that you almost have to respond to the call to action. “Put your right hand up, put your left hand up” is necessary when playing this.

3. “Ruff Ryders Anthem”- DMX (1998)

Swizz Beatz makes one of the best Hip Hop records with “Ruff Ryders Anthem.” This is one of DMX’s best songs. Swizz matches his style with this beat as it’s bold and hard. “Stop, drop, shut ‘em down, open up shop.” Swizz proves to be an innovator early in his career as this beat wasn’t the typical Hip Hop production at the time. This was near the beginning of X and Swizz’s relationship. They continued making more hits, but this might be their best. Ever since “Ruff Ryders Anthem,” Swizz has been known to make you move your body. Swizz Beatz songs do just that!

2.“Get Me Bodied”- Beyoncé (2006)

There are not too many songs that can get all the ladies to the dance floor. However, Beyonce’s “Get Me Bodied” always gets them on their feet. Her calls to action in her last verse are the part that makes the song. He also produced “Ring the Alarm” and “Upgrade U” off Beyonce’s B’Day album. Though they outperformed “Get Me Bodied” on the charts, “Get Me Bodied” is a timeless record.

1. “Touch It”- Busta Rhymes (2006)

“Touch It” is one song that you can always play at a party. Swizz Beatz made the perfect beat for Busta Rhymes’s unique flow. Very few can rap as fast as Busta can. Swizz also made a beat that fits Busta’s persona: loud, bold, and hard. No other rapper can do what Busta did on this beat. “Touch It” is one of the best songs of the 2000s. It was nominated for Best Rap Solo Performance at the 2007 Grammy Awards. The remix might’ve been more popular than the original version. It featured Mary J. Blige, Rah Digga, Missy Elliott, Lloyd Banks, Papoose, and DMX. It’s hard not to enjoy this song whenever you hear it.

Tyrin Turner Admits He Tried To Sabotage “Belly”

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1998’s Belly is a cult classic. The film focuses on “Buns” (DMX) and “Sin” (Nas), two young criminals in Queens and their growing criminal empire in Nebraska. While it holds a 27% critics rating on Rotten Tomatoes, audiences loved the film. It holds an 87% audience rating and tripled its budget at the box office.

Tyrin Turner plays a small but memorable part in the film. Turner plays Big Head Rico, an Omaha-based drug dealer who attempts to take Bunds and Sin down for taking over his turf. However, in a recent interview, Turner revealed that his iconic performance was something completely different.

Big Head Rico Was Supposed to Sabotage “Belly”

Appearing on the DUB C And CJ Mac Show, Turner revealed that he had originally been offered the part of Buns in Belly. “I met Hype Williams, I did the ‘Mary Jane’ video for Scarface, and then Hype was like, ‘I got this movie called Belly, I want you to be DMX’s character.” However, a few months later, Williams recast the role with the New York-born DMX. After finding out that he had been replaced, Turner vowed to ruin the film. “I’m young, I’m mad I didn’t get the character I wanted so [I was like], ‘I’m gon’ fuck this movie up. I’ma put on some glasses, I’ma be the worst country snitching dude that I could ever be.’”

However, Big Head Rico turned out to be one of the most-loved parts of the film. Turner’s portrayal of the milk bottle glasses wearing, banana-eating drug dealer was seen as a hilarious caricature rather than taking away from the film. “I’m thinking that I’m sabotaging the movie, but I’m thinking I’m irritated. I’m thinking that I’m just gon’ fuck the movie up. It was iconic. I couldn’t even fuck up what I wanted.” Turner said. What unintentionally sold the character further was that it was seen as a departure from type for Turner. In 1998, Turner was best known for starring in the lead role in 1993’s Menace II Society. Thus, the ridiculous appearance and self-seriousness of Big Head Rico was a complete change for audiences already familiar with Turner.

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DMX’s Daughter Visits Her Late Father’s Gravesite

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The daughter of DMX recently paid a visit to her late father’s gravesite. DMX, real name, Earl Simmons, achieved superstardom as a musician in the late 90s. The Ruff Ryder’s legend first hit the scene as a features artist. However, he would quickly go on to establish himself as a solo act. The New York native’s lyricism and aggressive demeanor earned him fans the world over. Subsequently, he became one of the biggest rappers of his era. Additionally, his popularity led him to starring in movies such as Cradle 2 The Grave and Romeo Must Die. However, for 10-year-old Sonovah Hamilton, he was simply her dad.

Hamilton was only eight-years-old when her father died. However, it’s obvious X made a life-long impact on his daughter. Hamilton recently took to Instagram to share a touching tribute to her father on the two-year anniversary of his death. In the photo, Hamilton can be seen smiling in front of her X’s headstone. Additionally, she’s wearing a shirt with her father’s image on it. Hamilton captioned the photo with “Couldn’t pull up to yo city and not see you. Hey daddy!”

DMX Leaves Behind An Enormous Legacy

Meanwhile, other tributes have been coming in for X as well. The Ruff Ryders paid tribute to their fallen comrade earlier this week. The crew is a loosely affiliated group of New York rappers that X was the de-fact leader of. The group and a small number of fans gathered at X’s gravesite on Sunday. During the tribute, speakers shared stories about the impact X had on their lives and careers. Additionally, attendees could be seen reciting lyrics and pouring out liquor for their friend.

No one will ever understand the pain that DMX’s death brought his friends and family. However, X’s death had an impact on fans all around the world. Several fans have taken to social media to pay their respects to the beloved rapper. “R.I.P. DMX can’t believe it’s been 2 years already!!!” said one Twitter user. “Pour one out for the Dog!” said another. X had been open about his struggles with mental health issues and substance abuse. However, his death still shocked fans and artists across the world of hip-hop. But the story isn’t over. Fans will continue being inspired by his work because although he may no longer be here, his music will live forever.

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