DMX (rapper)
Encyclopedia
Earl Simmons better known by his stage name
DMX, is a multiplatinum American
rapper (a member of the hip hop collective Ruff Ryders
) and actor who rose to fame in the late 1990s. His stage name pays tribute to the Oberheim DMX
drum machine
, an instrument he used when he made his own rap beats in the 80's. To date, his best-selling album is his 1999 album ...And Then There Was X
, which featured the hit single "Party Up (Up in Here)". As an actor, he also starred in the films Belly
, Romeo Must Die
, Exit Wounds
, Cradle 2 The Grave
and Last Hour
, and his own reality television series called Soul of a Man
on the American cable television network BET
. In 2002, DMX wrote an autobiographical
book titled E.A.R.L.: The Autobiography of DMX.
, and even though they share the same name he is not the cousin of hip hop mogul Russell Simmons
, the co-founder of the studio which released his first studio album
. He relocated early in his childhood to neighboring Yonkers
. He spent much time on the streets committing crimes. However, he considered hip hop to be an escape from his hard times, as he enjoyed beatboxing
, turntablism
, and eventually rapping
. He spent much of his adolescence in and out of jail.
magazine praised him in his "Unsigned Hype" column, which highlighted unsigned hip-hop artists. Later, he was signed to the Columbia Records
subsidiary Ruffhouse in 1992; under that label he released his debut single "Born Loser", which did not get much airplay. Then lost his mind and etc. However, Ruffhouse promoted many other artists on its roster rather than DMX and eventually agreed to release him from his contract. In 1994, he released a second single, "Make a Move". In 1997, he made a guest appearance on LL Cool J
's "4, 3, 2, 1". Additional guest spots on Mase
's "24 Hours to Live" and "Take What's Yours", and The LOX's "Money, Power & Respect
" created a strong buzz. DMX also made a cameo appearance in the Sum 41
music video for "Makes No Difference
".
, "Get At Me Dog
", which was certified gold by the RIAA. His first major-label album It's Dark and Hell Is Hot
, which included the single Ruff Ryders Anthem, was released in May 1998 and debuted in the top spot on the Billboard 200
chart in the U.S. It earned Simmons numerous comparisons to Tupac Shakur
and sold over five million copies. Later that year in December, DMX released his second album, Flesh of My Flesh, Blood of My Blood
. It entered the charts at number one (and stayed there for 3 consecutive weeks) with 670,000 units shipped in the first week alone. The album eventually went 4x platinum. DMX was the second rapper to have two albums released in the same year debut at number one on Billboard's Top 200, the first being Tupac Shakur
.
, on December 21, 1999. It debuted at number one on the pop charts, his third straight album to do so. "Party Up
" was his biggest single, and became his first Top Ten hit on the R&B charts. His lead single off the album, "What's My Name?" (containing the piano prelude from Richard Addinsell's Warsaw Concerto), and third single "What These Bitches Want
" (featuring Sisqo
) were also popular. .....And Then There Was X is Simmons' best-selling album to date, going six times platinum. He later had a affair with his wife that year.
. Released October 3, 2001, it was his fourth straight album to debut at the top of the Billboard 200
. With hits such as "Who We Be", "We Right Here", and the street track, "Shorty Was The Bomb". The Great Depression quickly went triple platinum, but was not as commercially or critically successful as his previous album.
became DMX's fifth straight album to debut at number one. This made DMX the only artist in history to have 5 albums (and his entire album catalog) debut at #1 with hits "Where Tha Hood At" and "Get it on the Floor". After its release, he informed the public that he planned to retire, and that Grand Champ would be his final album.
, the label that released his early single "Born Loser". DMX recorded his next album while switching record labels, causing numerous delays. The album was finally released on August 1, 2006, under the title Year of the Dog...Again
. It missed the number one spot in the charts by only one hundred sales. He also appeared on a remix of Busta Rhymes
' "Touch It
". Two more singles, "Lord Give Me A Sign
" and "We In Here
", followed. The Definition of X: The Pick of the Litter
was DMX's greatest hits album, released on June 12, 2007. Def Jam also released a new compilation album entitled The Best of DMX which features hit singles including "Where the Hood At?
" and "X Gon' Give It to Ya
".
. DMX has started the process of getting his life and career back on track by excusing all of his old staff and team and starting fresh, headed up by veteran entertainment manager Jason Fowler
of J Mike Management & Entertainment. The new album Undisputed is slated to be released commercially on December 13, 2011.
with other musicians including Nas
, Method Man
and T-Boz. His breakout role in Romeo Must Die
opposite Jet Li
and Aaliyah
in 2000 was followed by a starring role in pair of successful action films, Exit Wounds
opposite Steven Seagal
, and Cradle 2 the Grave
, again opposite Jet Li
. Since then, he has appeared in a string of unsuccessful action films, including Never Die Alone
, Jump Out Boys, Last Hour
, Death Toll
, Lockjaw: Rise of the Kulev Serpent, and The Bleeding
.
On television, he starred in a six episode reality series DMX: Soul of a Man
and has made appearances on Third Watch
, Eve
and MTV Jams
.
, he has semi-retired to study the Bible
more in an effort to give messages behind the pulpit.
In 1998, DMX was tried for rape
and sodomy
, sexual abuse, and unlawful imprisonment. The case was dismissed when DNA evidence from the crime did not match him.
In 1999, DMX joined rappers Jay-Z, Method Man, and Redman for Jay-Z's Hard Knock Life tour. DMX was arrested on, but later cleared of, charges of a stabbing at a tour stop in Boston, Massachusetts; he was also cleared of an assault charge in his hometown of Yonkers.
In the summer of 1999, DMX and his wife were arrested and charged with animal cruelty and possession of crack and weapons after his manager-uncle was accidentally shot at a hotel in New Jersey. Eventually, DMX successfully plea-bargained his sentence down to fines, probation, and community service.
In 1999, when officers of the Fort Lee Police Department
executed a search of his home, DMX promptly surrendered himself on weapons charges.
DMX served a 15-day jail sentence in 2000 for possession of marijuana.
He was arrested again in March 2000 for aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, speeding, failure to signal, driving without a license, failure to notify the DMV of an address change, and possession of marijuana on New York State Route 33 in Cheektowaga, New York, following a concert in Buffalo, New York. His failure to appear at his subsequent court date in Cheektowaga on March 21 led to the issue of a warrant for his arrest. He later turned himself in, pled guilty to a reduced charge of driving without a license, and was sentenced to 15 days in jail and fined $400.
DMX had another jail sentence in 2001 for driving without a license and possession of marijuana. His appeal to reduce the sentence was denied; rather, he was charged with assault for throwing objects at prison guards. DMX entered rehab to treat his addiction to drugs in 2002.
In June 2003, DMX was arrested for using indecent language during a performance at Saint Kitts and Nevis
. The country's Information Minister alleged that a contract signed before the concert stipulated the show would be without indecent language on stage. DMX was released on $376 bail.
In June 2004, he was arrested at the John F. Kennedy International Airport
on charges of cocaine
possession, criminal impersonation, criminal possession of a weapon, criminal mischief, menacing, and driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol while claiming to be a federal agent and attempting to carjack a vehicle. He was given a conditional discharge on December 8, 2004, but pled guilty on October 25, 2005, to violating parole. On November 18, 2005, DMX was sentenced to 70 days in jail for violating his parole; the lateness charge added a 10-day extension to the original 60-day sentence. DMX was released from jail for good behavior early on December 30, 2005.
Maryland resident Monique Wayne claims her son's father is DMX. She has sued him repeatedly for defamation of character and child support. A final outcome is still pending.
On December 30, 2008, DMX had pleaded guilty to charges of drug possession, theft, and animal cruelty and was sentenced to 90 days in jail on January 31, 2009. On May 22, 2009, DMX entered a plea agreement/change of plea, pleading guilty to attempted aggravated assault. DMX was released from jail early on July 6, 2010, after serving four out of six months for violating drug probation. A television pilot was filmed about his road to recovery that very day, but following his arrest three weeks later, the series was not picked up.
On July 27, 2010, DMX turned himself in to Los Angeles Metropolitan Court for a reckless driving charge he received in 2002, and was sent to Jail for 90 days.
On November 19, 2010, DMX was again arrested in Maricopa County, Arizona for violating his probation by consuming alcohol at a show. He served a full year term for the crime. On December 20, 2010, DMX was moved to the Mental Health Unit of the Arizona State Prison.
DMX was released from prison at 07:00 a.m. on July 18, 2011.
DMX was arrested again on August 24, 2011 for speeding (102 in a 65), reckless driving, and driving with a suspended license. DMX admits to speeding but says he was only going 85 mph in a 65 mph zone. DMX is now planning to sue the Arizona police.
, as well as Jay-Z
. DMX, Jay-Z and Ja Rule were part of a group at the time named Murder Inc.
(The name was later used by Ja's producer Irv Gotti for his record label.) They recorded songs under the name together. DMX and Jay-Z also guest starred on Ja Rule's first album on the track "It's Murda". Eventually Ja Rule's feuds with Busta Rhymes
, Dr. Dre
, Eminem
and 50 Cent went away. The two rappers waged a war of words for years after DMX accused Ja Rule of copying his gruff style on records. DMX admitted that he initially wanted to end with his rap rival when he was released from jail in 2005 before making peace: "Gotti came to me in jail and said I want to make peace with you and him", said DMX, "I was like, 'Alright Gotti, lets do it." DMX and Ja Rule finally ended their feud at VH1's 2009 Hip Hop Honors.
Television
Stage name
A stage name, also called a showbiz name or screen name, is a pseudonym used by performers and entertainers such as actors, wrestlers, comedians, and musicians.-Motivation to use a stage name:...
DMX, is a multiplatinum American
United States
The United States of America is a federal constitutional republic comprising fifty states and a federal district...
rapper (a member of the hip hop collective Ruff Ryders
Ruff Ryders
Ruff Ryders Entertainment is a record label founded by brothers Darrin "Dee" Dean and Joaquin "Waah" Dean, uncles of producer Swizz Beatz. Today it operates as a subsidiary of Universal Music Group, and is distributed by Fontana Distribution.The label is currently active as Ruff Ryders...
) and actor who rose to fame in the late 1990s. His stage name pays tribute to the Oberheim DMX
Oberheim DMX
The DMX is a programmable digital drum machine introduced in 1981 by Oberheim Electronics.The Oberheim DMX was the second digital drum computer ever to be sold to the public as a product, following the Linn LM-1 in 1980...
drum machine
Drum machine
A drum machine is an electronic musical instrument designed to imitate the sound of drums or other percussion instruments. They are used in a variety of musical genres, not just purely electronic music...
, an instrument he used when he made his own rap beats in the 80's. To date, his best-selling album is his 1999 album ...And Then There Was X
...And Then There Was X
…And Then There Was X is the third album by American rapper DMX, released December 21, 1999 on Ruff Ryders Entertainment and Def Jam Recordings.- Songs :...
, which featured the hit single "Party Up (Up in Here)". As an actor, he also starred in the films Belly
Belly (film)
Belly is a 1998 film, the film directorial debut of music video director Hype Williams. Filmed in New York City as an urban drama, the film stars rappers DMX and Nas, alongside with Taral Hicks, Method Man dancehall artist Louie Rankin, R&B singer T-Boz...
, Romeo Must Die
Romeo Must Die
Romeo Must Die is a 2000 martial arts film directed by Andrzej Bartkowiak. Starring Jet Li, Aaliyah, Anthony Anderson, Delroy Lindo, Isaiah Washington, Russell Wong, and features action and fight choreography by Corey Yuen...
, Exit Wounds
Exit Wounds
Exit Wounds is a 2001 action film based on the book of the same name by John Westermann. The book takes place on Long Island, while the film is set in Detroit. The film was directed by Andrzej Bartkowiak, and stars Steven Seagal as an urban detective notorious for pushing the limits of the law in...
, Cradle 2 The Grave
Cradle 2 the Grave
Cradle 2 the Grave is a 2003 American action film directed by Andrzej Bartkowiak featuring martial artist Jet Li and rapper DMX.-Plot:...
and Last Hour
Last Hour
Last Hour is a straight-to-DVD 2008 movie starring DMX, Michael Madsen, David Carradine and Paul Sorvino.-Plot:The movie follows five characters who are lured to an abandoned house in China by letters they all received from their fathers. They soon realize they are not alone and there is one other...
, and his own reality television series called Soul of a Man
DMX: Soul of a Man
DMX: Soul of a Man was a reality television series that recorded the daily life of Black American rapper DMX, primarily aired on Black Entertainment Television ....
on the American cable television network BET
Black Entertainment Television
Black Entertainment Television is an American, Viacom-owned cable network based in Washington, D.C.. Currently viewed in more than 90 million homes worldwide, it is the most prominent television network targeting young Black-American audiences. The network was launched on January 25, 1980, by its...
. In 2002, DMX wrote an autobiographical
Autobiography
An autobiography is a book about the life of a person, written by that person.-Origin of the term:...
book titled E.A.R.L.: The Autobiography of DMX.
Early life
Simmons was born in Mount Vernon, NY. He was the child of Joe Barker and Arnett Simmons. DMX's mother was pregnant with him when she was 19 and had had a daughter two years previous with another man. He was raised in the faith of Jehovah's WitnessesJehovah's Witnesses
Jehovah's Witnesses is a millenarian restorationist Christian denomination with nontrinitarian beliefs distinct from mainstream Christianity. The religion reports worldwide membership of over 7 million adherents involved in evangelism, convention attendance of over 12 million, and annual...
, and even though they share the same name he is not the cousin of hip hop mogul Russell Simmons
Russell Simmons
-External links:** * * * * * * from the US Holocaust Memorial Museum* *...
, the co-founder of the studio which released his first studio album
Def Jam Recordings
Def Jam Recordings is an American record label, focused primarily on hip hop and urban music, owned by Universal Music Group, and operates as a part of The Island Def Jam Motown Music Group...
. He relocated early in his childhood to neighboring Yonkers
Yonkers, New York
Yonkers is the fourth most populous city in the state of New York , and the most populous city in Westchester County, with a population of 195,976...
. He spent much time on the streets committing crimes. However, he considered hip hop to be an escape from his hard times, as he enjoyed beatboxing
Beatboxing
Beatboxing is a form of vocal percussion primarily involving the art of producing drum beats, rhythm, and musical sounds using one's mouth, lips, tongue, and voice. It may also involve singing, vocal imitation of turntablism, and the simulation of horns, strings, and other musical instruments...
, turntablism
Turntablism
Turntablism is the art of manipulating sounds and creating music using phonograph turntables and a DJ mixer.The word 'turntablist' was coined in 1995 by DJ Babu to describe the difference between a DJ who just plays records, and one who performs by touching and moving the records, stylus and mixer...
, and eventually rapping
Rapping
Rapping refers to "spoken or chanted rhyming lyrics". The art form can be broken down into different components, as in the book How to Rap where it is separated into “content”, “flow” , and “delivery”...
. He spent much of his adolescence in and out of jail.
Music career
In 1984, DMX began to beatbox with Ready Ron. In 1991, Gabriel Grevenstuk from The SourceThe Source (magazine)
The Source is a United States-based, monthly full-color magazine covering hip-hop music, politics, and culture, founded in 1988. It is the world's second longest running rap periodical, behind United Kingdom-based publication Hip Hop Connection. The Source was founded as a newsletter in 1988...
magazine praised him in his "Unsigned Hype" column, which highlighted unsigned hip-hop artists. Later, he was signed to the Columbia Records
Columbia Records
Columbia Records is an American record label, owned by Japan's Sony Music Entertainment, operating under the Columbia Music Group with Aware Records. It was founded in 1888, evolving from an earlier enterprise, the American Graphophone Company — successor to the Volta Graphophone Company...
subsidiary Ruffhouse in 1992; under that label he released his debut single "Born Loser", which did not get much airplay. Then lost his mind and etc. However, Ruffhouse promoted many other artists on its roster rather than DMX and eventually agreed to release him from his contract. In 1994, he released a second single, "Make a Move". In 1997, he made a guest appearance on LL Cool J
LL Cool J
James Todd Smith , better known as LL Cool J , is an American rapper, entrepreneur, and actor...
's "4, 3, 2, 1". Additional guest spots on Mase
Mase
Mason Durell Betha , better known by stage name Mase who was previously known as Murda Ma$e, is an American rapper, songwriter, actor and inspirational speaker...
's "24 Hours to Live" and "Take What's Yours", and The LOX's "Money, Power & Respect
Money, Power & Respect
Money, Power & Respect is the debut album by hip hop group The LOX. It was released on January 13, 1998 through Bad Boy Records and featured production from The Hitmen, Dame Grease and Swizz Beatz...
" created a strong buzz. DMX also made a cameo appearance in the Sum 41
Sum 41
Sum 41 is a Canadian rock band from Ajax, Ontario. The band was formed in 1996 and currently consists of members Deryck Whibley , Tom Thacker , Jason McCaslin and Steve Jocz .In 1999, the band signed an international record deal with Island Records...
music video for "Makes No Difference
Makes No Difference
"Makes No Difference" is the title of a song recorded by Canadian pop punk band Sum 41. It was released in June 2000 as the lead single from the album Half Hour of Power. The song is featured on the soundtracks for Bring it On, Out Cold and Van Wilder...
".
1998: It's Dark and Hell Is Hot & Flesh of My Flesh, Blood of My Blood
In February 1998, DMX released his debut major-label single under Def Jam RecordingsDef Jam Recordings
Def Jam Recordings is an American record label, focused primarily on hip hop and urban music, owned by Universal Music Group, and operates as a part of The Island Def Jam Motown Music Group...
, "Get At Me Dog
Get at Me Dog
"Get at Me Dog" is the first single by DMX. It's his debut single for Ruff Ryders Entertainment and Def Jam Recordings from his debut album, It's Dark and Hell Is Hot...
", which was certified gold by the RIAA. His first major-label album It's Dark and Hell Is Hot
It's Dark and Hell Is Hot
It's Dark and Hell is Hot is the debut album of American rapper DMX, released May 19, 1998 on Ruff Ryders Entertainment and Def Jam Recordings. The album featured four singles with music videos, "Get at Me Dog", "Stop Being Greedy", "How's It Goin' Down" and the "Ruff Ryders Anthem"...
, which included the single Ruff Ryders Anthem, was released in May 1998 and debuted in the top spot on the Billboard 200
Billboard 200
The Billboard 200 is a ranking of the 200 highest-selling music albums and EPs in the United States, published weekly by Billboard magazine. It is frequently used to convey the popularity of an artist or groups of artists...
chart in the U.S. It earned Simmons numerous comparisons to Tupac Shakur
Tupac Shakur
Tupac Amaru Shakur , known by his stage names 2Pac and Makaveli, was an American rapper and actor. Shakur has sold over 75 million albums worldwide as of 2007, making him one of the best-selling music artists in the world...
and sold over five million copies. Later that year in December, DMX released his second album, Flesh of My Flesh, Blood of My Blood
Flesh of My Flesh, Blood of My Blood
Flesh of My Flesh, Blood of My Blood is the second album released in 1998 by rapper DMX. It entered the charts at number one with an impressive 670,000 units shipped in the first week. The album eventually went 3x Multi-Platinum in the US. DMX released his debut album It's Dark and Hell Is Hot in...
. It entered the charts at number one (and stayed there for 3 consecutive weeks) with 670,000 units shipped in the first week alone. The album eventually went 4x platinum. DMX was the second rapper to have two albums released in the same year debut at number one on Billboard's Top 200, the first being Tupac Shakur
Tupac Shakur
Tupac Amaru Shakur , known by his stage names 2Pac and Makaveli, was an American rapper and actor. Shakur has sold over 75 million albums worldwide as of 2007, making him one of the best-selling music artists in the world...
.
1999–2000: ...And Then There Was X'
Simmons released his third album, ...And Then There Was X...And Then There Was X
…And Then There Was X is the third album by American rapper DMX, released December 21, 1999 on Ruff Ryders Entertainment and Def Jam Recordings.- Songs :...
, on December 21, 1999. It debuted at number one on the pop charts, his third straight album to do so. "Party Up
Party Up
"Party Up " is a song by rapper DMX. It is one of DMX's more recognizable songs and is from his album ...And Then There Was X, released in 1999. The track is his highest-charting song to date, reaching #27 on the Billboard Hot 100...
" was his biggest single, and became his first Top Ten hit on the R&B charts. His lead single off the album, "What's My Name?" (containing the piano prelude from Richard Addinsell's Warsaw Concerto), and third single "What These Bitches Want
What These Bitches Want
"What These Bitches Want" is a song by rapper DMX. It is one of DMX's best known songs and is from his album ...And Then There Was X, released in 2000.-Production:...
" (featuring Sisqo
Sisqó
Mark Durrell Andrews , known by his stage name Sisqó, is an American R&B singer and actor. He is best known as the lead singer of R&B group Dru Hill, and also for "Thong Song", a song from his first solo LP, Unleash the Dragon, that became an international hit. - Biography :Sisqó was born Mark...
) were also popular. .....And Then There Was X is Simmons' best-selling album to date, going six times platinum. He later had a affair with his wife that year.
2001–02: The Great Depression
After improving his legal situation, Simmons returned to the studio and completed his fourth album, The Great DepressionThe Great Depression (DMX album)
The Great Depression is the fourth solo album released by New York based rapper DMX. Released October 23, 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...
. Released October 3, 2001, it was his fourth straight album to debut at the top of the Billboard 200
Billboard 200
The Billboard 200 is a ranking of the 200 highest-selling music albums and EPs in the United States, published weekly by Billboard magazine. It is frequently used to convey the popularity of an artist or groups of artists...
. With hits such as "Who We Be", "We Right Here", and the street track, "Shorty Was The Bomb". The Great Depression quickly went triple platinum, but was not as commercially or critically successful as his previous album.
2003: Grand Champ
In 2003, Grand ChampGrand Champ
Grand Champ is the fifth album by American rapper DMX, released in 2003. Grand Champ features the popular singles Where the Hood At? and Get it on the Floor...
became DMX's fifth straight album to debut at number one. This made DMX the only artist in history to have 5 albums (and his entire album catalog) debut at #1 with hits "Where Tha Hood At" and "Get it on the Floor". After its release, he informed the public that he planned to retire, and that Grand Champ would be his final album.
2006: Year of the Dog...Again
In January 2006, DMX signed to Columbia RecordsColumbia Records
Columbia Records is an American record label, owned by Japan's Sony Music Entertainment, operating under the Columbia Music Group with Aware Records. It was founded in 1888, evolving from an earlier enterprise, the American Graphophone Company — successor to the Volta Graphophone Company...
, the label that released his early single "Born Loser". DMX recorded his next album while switching record labels, causing numerous delays. The album was finally released on August 1, 2006, under the title Year of the Dog...Again
Year of the Dog...Again
-Charts:- Notes :* R&B singer Janyce makes three appearances, mainly for backing vocals.* The album was originally titled "Here We Go Again".* Only DMX album to not debut at number 1....
. It missed the number one spot in the charts by only one hundred sales. He also appeared on a remix of Busta Rhymes
Busta Rhymes
Trevor Tahiem Smith, Jr., better known by his stage name Busta Rhymes ,Smith is an American rapper, producer and actor. Chuck D of Public Enemy gave him the alias Busta Rhymes after NFL wide receiver George "Buster" Rhymes...
' "Touch It
Touch It
"Touch It" is a rap/hip-hop song by Busta Rhymes which contains a sample from "Technologic" by the electronic band Daft Punk. Released as an official single on May 13, 2006, it was the first single from Rhymes' Aftermath/Interscope debut, The Big Bang...
". Two more singles, "Lord Give Me A Sign
Lord Give Me A Sign
"Lord Give Me a Sign" is the second single by the American rapper DMX, taken from his album Year of the Dog...Again.-Song Info:Even though the album cover has the RIAA Parental Advisory sticker, this song has no profanities. This is most likely due to DMX's reputation. DMX has since decided to...
" and "We In Here
We In Here
"We in Here" is a hip hop song performed by American rapper DMX, released in June 2006. It is the first single released from his sixth album, Year of the Dog... Again...
", followed. The Definition of X: The Pick of the Litter
The Definition of X: The Pick of the Litter
The Definition of X: The Pick of the Litter is a greatest hits album from rapper DMX, released on June 12, 2007 in the United States.The album debuted at number 26 on the U.S. Billboard 200, selling about 35,000 copies in its first week...
was DMX's greatest hits album, released on June 12, 2007. Def Jam also released a new compilation album entitled The Best of DMX which features hit singles including "Where the Hood At?
Where the Hood At?
"Where the Hood At?" is the lead single of DMX's fifth studio album Grand Champ. The track is noted to be a diss record towards Ja Rule; particularly in the first verse...
" and "X Gon' Give It to Ya
X Gon' Give It to Ya
"X Gon' Give It to Ya" is a single by the rapper DMX from the soundtrack, Cradle 2 the Grave. The song also appeared as a hidden track on DMX's greatest hits album, The Definition of X: The Pick of the Litter...
".
2011: Undisputed
It had been reported that DMX is working on his upcoming seventh studio album. DMX said that he has been working "nonstop, every day" on the new album, and plans to release it before December of this year. On September 24, 2011 a video for a new track called "Last Hope" was released on the internet. It is unknown if the track will appear on the album. On October 11, 2011 DMX performed at the 2011 BET Hip Hop AwardsBET Hip Hop Awards
The BET Hip Hop Awards are an annual awards show, airing on BET, showcasing hip hop performers, producers and music video directors. The awards ceremony began in 2006, was held on November 12, 2006 at the Fox Theatre in Atlanta, Georgia, was first aired November 15 and was hosted by comedian Katt...
. DMX has started the process of getting his life and career back on track by excusing all of his old staff and team and starting fresh, headed up by veteran entertainment manager Jason Fowler
Jason Fowler
Jason Kenneth George Fowler is an English former professional footballer.-Career:Having featured for both Southampton and Oxford United as a schoolboy, Fowler signed for his hometown club Bristol City at the age of 16, making his debut during a 2–1 defeat to Reggiana in the Anglo-Italian Cup on 8...
of J Mike Management & Entertainment. The new album Undisputed is slated to be released commercially on December 13, 2011.
Acting career
DMX made his film debut in BellyBelly (film)
Belly is a 1998 film, the film directorial debut of music video director Hype Williams. Filmed in New York City as an urban drama, the film stars rappers DMX and Nas, alongside with Taral Hicks, Method Man dancehall artist Louie Rankin, R&B singer T-Boz...
with other musicians including Nas
Nas
Nasir bin Olu Dara Jones, who performs under the name Nas , formerly Nasty Nas, is an American rapper and actor. He is regarded as one of the most important figures in hip hop and one of the most skilled and influential rappers of all-time...
, Method Man
Method Man
Clifford Smith , better known by his stage name Method Man is an American hip hop artist, record producer, actor and member of the hip hop collective Wu-Tang Clan. He took his stage name from the 1979 film The Fearless Young Boxer, also known as Method Man. He is one half of the rap duo Method Man...
and T-Boz. His breakout role in Romeo Must Die
Romeo Must Die
Romeo Must Die is a 2000 martial arts film directed by Andrzej Bartkowiak. Starring Jet Li, Aaliyah, Anthony Anderson, Delroy Lindo, Isaiah Washington, Russell Wong, and features action and fight choreography by Corey Yuen...
opposite Jet Li
Jet Li
The fame gained by his sports winnings led to a career as a martial arts film star, beginning in mainland China and then continuing into Hong Kong. Li acquired his screen name in 1982 in the Philippines when a publicity company thought his real name was too hard to pronounce...
and Aaliyah
Aaliyah
Aaliyah Dana Haughton , who performed under the mononym Aaliyah , was an American R&B recording artist, actress and model. She was born in Brooklyn, New York, and was raised in Detroit, Michigan. At the age of 10, she appeared on the television show Star Search and performed in concert alongside...
in 2000 was followed by a starring role in pair of successful action films, Exit Wounds
Exit Wounds
Exit Wounds is a 2001 action film based on the book of the same name by John Westermann. The book takes place on Long Island, while the film is set in Detroit. The film was directed by Andrzej Bartkowiak, and stars Steven Seagal as an urban detective notorious for pushing the limits of the law in...
opposite Steven Seagal
Steven Seagal
Steven Frederic Seagal is an American action film star, producer, writer, martial artist, guitarist and reserve deputy sheriff. A 7th-dan black belt in Aikido, Seagal began his adult life as an Aikido instructor in Japan...
, and Cradle 2 the Grave
Cradle 2 the Grave
Cradle 2 the Grave is a 2003 American action film directed by Andrzej Bartkowiak featuring martial artist Jet Li and rapper DMX.-Plot:...
, again opposite Jet Li
Jet Li
The fame gained by his sports winnings led to a career as a martial arts film star, beginning in mainland China and then continuing into Hong Kong. Li acquired his screen name in 1982 in the Philippines when a publicity company thought his real name was too hard to pronounce...
. Since then, he has appeared in a string of unsuccessful action films, including Never Die Alone
Never Die Alone
Never Die Alone is a 2004 crime thriller film directed by Ernest R. Dickerson. It is an adaptation of the novel of the same name, written by Donald Goines.-Plot:...
, Jump Out Boys, Last Hour
Last Hour
Last Hour is a straight-to-DVD 2008 movie starring DMX, Michael Madsen, David Carradine and Paul Sorvino.-Plot:The movie follows five characters who are lured to an abandoned house in China by letters they all received from their fathers. They soon realize they are not alone and there is one other...
, Death Toll
Death Toll
Death Toll is a 2008 action film starring DMX, Lou Diamond Phillips, Leila Arcieri and Keshia Knight Pulliam, written and produced by Daniel Garcia of the rap group Kane & Abel and directed by Phenomenon...
, Lockjaw: Rise of the Kulev Serpent, and The Bleeding
The Bleeding (film)
The Bleeding is an action-horror film directed by Charlie Picerni and starring Michael Matthias, Vinnie Jones, DMX, and Michael Madsen.-Plot:...
.
On television, he starred in a six episode reality series DMX: Soul of a Man
DMX: Soul of a Man
DMX: Soul of a Man was a reality television series that recorded the daily life of Black American rapper DMX, primarily aired on Black Entertainment Television ....
and has made appearances on Third Watch
Third Watch
Third Watch is an American television drama series which first aired on NBC from 1999 to 2005 for a total of 132 episodes, broadcast in 6 seasons of 22 episodes each....
, Eve
Eve (TV series)
Eve is an American sitcom starring Eve, Jason Winston George, Ali Landry, Natalie Desselle-Reid, Brian Hooks and Sean Maguire. That aired on the UPN network from September 15, 2003 to May 11, 2006, with 66 episodes produced spanning 3 seasons...
and MTV Jams
MTV Jams
MTV Jams is a Viacom-owned American hip-hop/urban music video channel that debuted on 1998 as MTVX, then was relaunched in 2002 under its current name...
.
Family
Since 1999, DMX has been married to Tashera Simmons. They have four children together. On July 22, 2010, Tashera Simmons said she was separating from DMX after 11 years of marriage, just 2 weeks after he was released from jail. DMX currently has 10 children, 4 of whom with ex-wife Tashera Simmons.Pastoral ministry
In 2009, DMX claimed he would pursue preaching but will also continue to produce music. He completed a Gospel album prior to his incarceration. According to MTVMTV
MTV, formerly an initialism of Music Television, is an American network based in New York City that launched on August 1, 1981. The original purpose of the channel was to play music videos guided by on-air hosts known as VJs....
, he has semi-retired to study the Bible
Bible
The Bible refers to any one of the collections of the primary religious texts of Judaism and Christianity. There is no common version of the Bible, as the individual books , their contents and their order vary among denominations...
more in an effort to give messages behind the pulpit.
Legal issues
Since beginning his life as a public figure, DMX's multiple arrests have been for offenses including: animal cruelty, reckless driving, unlicensed driving, drug possession, and identity falsification.In 1998, DMX was tried for rape
Rape
Rape is a type of sexual assault usually involving sexual intercourse, which is initiated by one or more persons against another person without that person's consent. The act may be carried out by physical force, coercion, abuse of authority or with a person who is incapable of valid consent. The...
and sodomy
Sodomy
Sodomy is an anal or other copulation-like act, especially between male persons or between a man and animal, and one who practices sodomy is a "sodomite"...
, sexual abuse, and unlawful imprisonment. The case was dismissed when DNA evidence from the crime did not match him.
In 1999, DMX joined rappers Jay-Z, Method Man, and Redman for Jay-Z's Hard Knock Life tour. DMX was arrested on, but later cleared of, charges of a stabbing at a tour stop in Boston, Massachusetts; he was also cleared of an assault charge in his hometown of Yonkers.
In the summer of 1999, DMX and his wife were arrested and charged with animal cruelty and possession of crack and weapons after his manager-uncle was accidentally shot at a hotel in New Jersey. Eventually, DMX successfully plea-bargained his sentence down to fines, probation, and community service.
In 1999, when officers of the Fort Lee Police Department
Fort Lee Police Department
- Introduction :The Fort Lee Police Department was originally formed by ordinance on August 9, 1904. During this time the council appointed six marshalls. However the department was not formally established until October 5, 1927. During this time another ordinance was enacted to equip, organized...
executed a search of his home, DMX promptly surrendered himself on weapons charges.
DMX served a 15-day jail sentence in 2000 for possession of marijuana.
He was arrested again in March 2000 for aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, speeding, failure to signal, driving without a license, failure to notify the DMV of an address change, and possession of marijuana on New York State Route 33 in Cheektowaga, New York, following a concert in Buffalo, New York. His failure to appear at his subsequent court date in Cheektowaga on March 21 led to the issue of a warrant for his arrest. He later turned himself in, pled guilty to a reduced charge of driving without a license, and was sentenced to 15 days in jail and fined $400.
DMX had another jail sentence in 2001 for driving without a license and possession of marijuana. His appeal to reduce the sentence was denied; rather, he was charged with assault for throwing objects at prison guards. DMX entered rehab to treat his addiction to drugs in 2002.
In June 2003, DMX was arrested for using indecent language during a performance at Saint Kitts and Nevis
Saint Kitts and Nevis
The Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis , located in the Leeward Islands, is a federal two-island nation in the West Indies. It is the smallest sovereign state in the Americas, in both area and population....
. The country's Information Minister alleged that a contract signed before the concert stipulated the show would be without indecent language on stage. DMX was released on $376 bail.
In June 2004, he was arrested at the John F. Kennedy International Airport
John F. Kennedy International Airport
John F. Kennedy International Airport is an international airport located in the borough of Queens in New York City, about southeast of Lower Manhattan. It is the busiest international air passenger gateway to the United States, handling more international traffic than any other airport in North...
on charges of cocaine
Cocaine
Cocaine is a crystalline tropane alkaloid that is obtained from the leaves of the coca plant. The name comes from "coca" in addition to the alkaloid suffix -ine, forming cocaine. It is a stimulant of the central nervous system, an appetite suppressant, and a topical anesthetic...
possession, criminal impersonation, criminal possession of a weapon, criminal mischief, menacing, and driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol while claiming to be a federal agent and attempting to carjack a vehicle. He was given a conditional discharge on December 8, 2004, but pled guilty on October 25, 2005, to violating parole. On November 18, 2005, DMX was sentenced to 70 days in jail for violating his parole; the lateness charge added a 10-day extension to the original 60-day sentence. DMX was released from jail for good behavior early on December 30, 2005.
Maryland resident Monique Wayne claims her son's father is DMX. She has sued him repeatedly for defamation of character and child support. A final outcome is still pending.
On December 30, 2008, DMX had pleaded guilty to charges of drug possession, theft, and animal cruelty and was sentenced to 90 days in jail on January 31, 2009. On May 22, 2009, DMX entered a plea agreement/change of plea, pleading guilty to attempted aggravated assault. DMX was released from jail early on July 6, 2010, after serving four out of six months for violating drug probation. A television pilot was filmed about his road to recovery that very day, but following his arrest three weeks later, the series was not picked up.
On July 27, 2010, DMX turned himself in to Los Angeles Metropolitan Court for a reckless driving charge he received in 2002, and was sent to Jail for 90 days.
On November 19, 2010, DMX was again arrested in Maricopa County, Arizona for violating his probation by consuming alcohol at a show. He served a full year term for the crime. On December 20, 2010, DMX was moved to the Mental Health Unit of the Arizona State Prison.
DMX was released from prison at 07:00 a.m. on July 18, 2011.
DMX was arrested again on August 24, 2011 for speeding (102 in a 65), reckless driving, and driving with a suspended license. DMX admits to speeding but says he was only going 85 mph in a 65 mph zone. DMX is now planning to sue the Arizona police.
Feud with Ja Rule
DMX started off as friends with Ja RuleJa Rule
Jeffrey Atkins , better known by his stage name Ja Rule, is an American rapper, singer, and actor.Born in Hollis, Queens, he began his career in the group Cash Money Click and debuted in 1999 with Venni Vetti Vecci and its single "Holla Holla"...
, as well as Jay-Z
Jay-Z
Shawn Corey Carter , better known by his stage name Jay-Z, is an American rapper, record producer, entrepreneur, and occasional actor. He is one of the most financially successful hip hop artists and entrepreneurs in America, having a net worth of over $450 million as of 2010...
. DMX, Jay-Z and Ja Rule were part of a group at the time named Murder Inc.
The Inc. Records
The Inc. Records , is an American record label, owned by Irv Gotti.In 1999, Murder Inc. released its first album, Venni Vetti Vecci by Ja Rule. The album featured the hit single "Holla Holla". The album was executively produced by Irv Gotti and moved on to go platinum, which rose Ja Rule and...
(The name was later used by Ja's producer Irv Gotti for his record label.) They recorded songs under the name together. DMX and Jay-Z also guest starred on Ja Rule's first album on the track "It's Murda". Eventually Ja Rule's feuds with Busta Rhymes
Busta Rhymes
Trevor Tahiem Smith, Jr., better known by his stage name Busta Rhymes ,Smith is an American rapper, producer and actor. Chuck D of Public Enemy gave him the alias Busta Rhymes after NFL wide receiver George "Buster" Rhymes...
, Dr. Dre
Dr. Dre
Andre Romelle Young , primarily known by his stage name Dr. Dre, is an American record producer, rapper, record executive, entrepreneur, and occasional actor. He is the founder and current CEO of Aftermath Entertainment and a former co-owner and artist of Death Row Records...
, Eminem
Eminem
Marshall Bruce Mathers III , better known by his stage name Eminem or his alter ego Slim Shady, is an American rapper, record producer, songwriter and actor. Eminem's popularity brought his group project, D12, to mainstream recognition...
and 50 Cent went away. The two rappers waged a war of words for years after DMX accused Ja Rule of copying his gruff style on records. DMX admitted that he initially wanted to end with his rap rival when he was released from jail in 2005 before making peace: "Gotti came to me in jail and said I want to make peace with you and him", said DMX, "I was like, 'Alright Gotti, lets do it." DMX and Ja Rule finally ended their feud at VH1's 2009 Hip Hop Honors.
Discography
- 1998: It's Dark and Hell Is HotIt's Dark and Hell Is HotIt's Dark and Hell is Hot is the debut album of American rapper DMX, released May 19, 1998 on Ruff Ryders Entertainment and Def Jam Recordings. The album featured four singles with music videos, "Get at Me Dog", "Stop Being Greedy", "How's It Goin' Down" and the "Ruff Ryders Anthem"...
- 1998: Flesh of My Flesh, Blood of My BloodFlesh of My Flesh, Blood of My BloodFlesh of My Flesh, Blood of My Blood is the second album released in 1998 by rapper DMX. It entered the charts at number one with an impressive 670,000 units shipped in the first week. The album eventually went 3x Multi-Platinum in the US. DMX released his debut album It's Dark and Hell Is Hot in...
- 1999: ...And Then There Was X...And Then There Was X…And Then There Was X is the third album by American rapper DMX, released December 21, 1999 on Ruff Ryders Entertainment and Def Jam Recordings.- Songs :...
- 2001: The Great DepressionThe Great Depression (DMX album)The Great Depression is the fourth solo album released by New York based rapper DMX. Released October 23, 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...
- 2003: Grand ChampGrand ChampGrand Champ is the fifth album by American rapper DMX, released in 2003. Grand Champ features the popular singles Where the Hood At? and Get it on the Floor...
- 2006: Year of the Dog... Again
- 2011: Undisputed
Filmography
Films| Year | Title | Role | Notes | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1998 | Belly Belly (film) Belly is a 1998 film, the film directorial debut of music video director Hype Williams. Filmed in New York City as an urban drama, the film stars rappers DMX and Nas, alongside with Taral Hicks, Method Man dancehall artist Louie Rankin, R&B singer T-Boz... |
Tommy 'Buns' Bundy | Main Role | ||
| 2000 | Romeo Must Die Romeo Must Die Romeo Must Die is a 2000 martial arts film directed by Andrzej Bartkowiak. Starring Jet Li, Aaliyah, Anthony Anderson, Delroy Lindo, Isaiah Washington, Russell Wong, and features action and fight choreography by Corey Yuen... |
Silk | Support Role | ||
| Backstage Backstage (2000 film) Backstage is a 2000 documentary film directed by Chris Fiore, chronicling the 1999 Hard Knock Life tour that featured several of hip hops top acts including Jay-Z, DMX, Method Man and Redman... |
As Himself | Support Role | |||
| 2001 | Exit Wounds Exit Wounds Exit Wounds is a 2001 action film based on the book of the same name by John Westermann. The book takes place on Long Island, while the film is set in Detroit. The film was directed by Andrzej Bartkowiak, and stars Steven Seagal as an urban detective notorious for pushing the limits of the law in... |
Latrell Walker | Main Role | ||
| 2003 | Cradle 2 the Grave Cradle 2 the Grave Cradle 2 the Grave is a 2003 American action film directed by Andrzej Bartkowiak featuring martial artist Jet Li and rapper DMX.-Plot:... |
Anthony Fait | Main Role | ||
| Def Jam Vendetta Def Jam Vendetta Def Jam Vendetta is a professional wrestling video game that combined hip hop with pro wrestling. It was released for the PlayStation 2 and GameCube. It was Electronic Arts' first attempt at a wrestling game since the widely-panned WCW Backstage Assault... |
As Himself | Voice Role | |||
| 2004 | Never Die Alone Never Die Alone Never Die Alone is a 2004 crime thriller film directed by Ernest R. Dickerson. It is an adaptation of the novel of the same name, written by Donald Goines.-Plot:... |
King David | Main Role | ||
| 2008 | Death Toll Death Toll Death Toll is a 2008 action film starring DMX, Lou Diamond Phillips, Leila Arcieri and Keshia Knight Pulliam, written and produced by Daniel Garcia of the rap group Kane & Abel and directed by Phenomenon... |
The Dog | Main Role | ||
| Last Hour Last Hour Last Hour is a straight-to-DVD 2008 movie starring DMX, Michael Madsen, David Carradine and Paul Sorvino.-Plot:The movie follows five characters who are lured to an abandoned house in China by letters they all received from their fathers. They soon realize they are not alone and there is one other... |
Black Jack | Main Role | |||
| Lockjaw: Rise of the Kulev Serpent | Nick | Support Role | |||
| Thorn | Support Role | 2009 | The Bleeding The Bleeding (film) The Bleeding is an action-horror film directed by Charlie Picerni and starring Michael Matthias, Vinnie Jones, DMX, and Michael Madsen.-Plot:... |
Tagg | Main Role |
Television
| Year | Title | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2003 | Eve Eve (TV series) Eve is an American sitcom starring Eve, Jason Winston George, Ali Landry, Natalie Desselle-Reid, Brian Hooks and Sean Maguire. That aired on the UPN network from September 15, 2003 to May 11, 2006, with 66 episodes produced spanning 3 seasons... |
Xenon | "She Snoops to Conquer" (episode 3, season 1) |
| 2003 | Third Watch Third Watch Third Watch is an American television drama series which first aired on NBC from 1999 to 2005 for a total of 132 episodes, broadcast in 6 seasons of 22 episodes each.... |
Kandid Jones | "In Lieu of Johnson" (episode 92, season 4) |
| 2004 | Chappelle's Show Chappelle's Show Chappelle's Show is an American sketch comedy television series created by comedian Dave Chappelle and Neal Brennan, with Chappelle hosting the show as well as starring in various skits. Chappelle, Brennan and Michele Armour were the show's executive producers. The series premiered on January 22,... |
As Himself | (episode 16, season 2)/Music Guest |
| 2006 | DMX: Soul of a Man DMX: Soul of a Man DMX: Soul of a Man was a reality television series that recorded the daily life of Black American rapper DMX, primarily aired on Black Entertainment Television .... |
As Himself | Documentary |