DMX

American rapper, songwriter, and actor, born on December 18, 1970, in Mount Vernon, New York, and raised in Yonkers. He faced a troubled childhood marked by abuse and poverty, which deeply influenced his music. Beginning his career in 1985, he gained recognition through street battles and mixtapes. In 1998, he signed with Ruff Ryders and Def Jam, releasing his debut album "It's Dark and Hell Is Hot," which went platinum and featured the hit "Ruff Ryders' Anthem." That same year, he released his second album, "Flesh of My Flesh, Blood of My Blood," also debuting at number one on the Billboard 200. His third album, "...And Then There Was X" (1999), became his most successful, featuring the hit "Party Up (Up in Here)." DMX was the first artist to have his first five albums debut at number one on the Billboard 200. His style was characterized by aggressive delivery, dark themes, and spiritual undertones, making him a key figure in hardcore hip-hop and horrorcore. He also starred in films such as "Belly" (1998), "Romeo Must Die" (2000), "Exit Wounds" (2001), and "Cradle 2 the Grave" (2003). Despite his success, he struggled with addiction and legal issues, including prison sentences. In 2021, he released the posthumous album "Exodus," produced by Swizz Beatz, featuring collaborations with Jay-Z and Nas. He died on April 9, 2021, at the age of 50 from a heart attack. Throughout his career, he sold over 75 million records worldwide and received numerous accolades, including an American Music Award, a Billboard Music Award, and six Grammy nominations. His legacy continues to inspire a new generation of artists.