It’s a somber day for Hip Hop, especially here in New York. Rapper DMX has passed away. He was 50 years old. You get the feeling that it was coming, but it’s still devastating because it’s DMX. He is someone I grew up listening to his music since I was eight years old. The first time I heard one of DMX’s songs came from my oldest sister’s 17th birthday party, May 1999. When the “Ruff Ryders Anthem” was playing, it was one of the party’s best highlights. Many of the guys from my old block who were at the party were singing the song aloud. Ever since that day, I became intrigued by who DMX was. The “Ruff Ryders Anthem” song is still being played to this day. You can hear this song in cars and at parties too. The beat is just too sick.

DMX had so many incredible songs. “Slippin” is the song that resonates with me the most because I went through many tough times during my teen years, including depression. “Slippin” helped me get through those rough days. If I were to meet DMX, which I won’t be able to now, I would’ve thanked him for making that record and helping me to get back on my feet.

I wasn’t old enough to witness how sad it was when Biggie passed away. Some people I know, who are a little older than I am, have said that Biggie’s death was devastating, and New York was mourning. When Biggie died, people were wondering who was going to fill the void in New York. DMX, alongside Jay-Z and Ja Rule, helped fill that void from 1998 through 2002.

DMX has battled drugs throughout his life and fought so many demons. He had a rough childhood. It’s sad how his life and career derailed because of drugs. I will always admire DMX for evoking his emotions through this music. He made you felt his words.

Rest in Peace, X. You’re one of my favorite rappers of all time, and it’s been a privilege to listen to your tracks throughout these years.