DMX has died aged 50

Rap icon DMX has died aged 50.

Pitchfork reports a representative shared the following statement: “We are deeply saddened to announce today that our loved one, DMX, birth name of Earl Simmons, passed away at 50-years-old at White Plains Hospital with his family by his side after being placed on life support for the past few days. Earl was a warrior who fought till the very end. He loved his family with all of his heart and we cherish the times we spent with him. Earl’s music inspired countless fans across the world and his iconic legacy will live on forever. We appreciate all of the love and support during this incredibly difficult time. Please respect our privacy as we grieve the loss of our brother, father, uncle and the man the world knew as DMX. We will share information about his memorial service once details are finalized.”

Last Saturday, April 3, TMZ reported that DMX suffered a drug overdose which triggered a heart attack at around 11pm on Friday night and was rushed to hospital in White Plains, New York.

A family member told TMZ that paramedics spent 30 minutes trying to resuscitate DMX. and during that time he was deprived of oxygen which has severely impacted his brain.

Earlier this week many artists from across the music world have spoke of their admiration for DMX, including Missy Elliott, Eminem and Chance The Rapper.

DMX, who was born in Mount Vernon, New York, in 1970 and grew up in Yonkers, was the first ever artist to have their first four albums debut at Number One on the Billboard chart., with late 90s and early 00s hits including ‘Party Up’ and ‘X Gon’ Give It To Ya’.

[Via: Pitchfork]