The Ruff Ryders gathered to pay tribute to DMX on the two year anniversary of his death. DMX, real name, Earl Simmons. died in 2021 at the age of 50. Authorities say X suffered a heart attack that was brought on by a drug overdose. The "Party Up" rapper became a beloved figure in the late 90s and early 2000s. His lyricism, aggressive style and gravelly tone resonated with millions of fans. Furthermore, he is recognized by many as one of the greatest icons of New York hip-hop history.
The Hip-Hop Wolf shared an Instagram video of the Ruff Ryders and a small group of fans gathered at X's gravesite. One speaker at the memorial noted that X's legacy lives on. "He never died to us, because he always lived to us," he said. He also thanked X for the memories he left behind. "We love you as we know we do, and we appreciate what you left us with," he said. Additionally, attendees performed the "X" hand sign in front of the grave. Meanwhile, fans could also be seen pouring out liquor in front the headstone.
Ruff Ryders Remember Fallen Leader
It speaks to the impact he made that X is revered by so many. He began his career as a feature artist. He appeared on Mase's song "Take What's Yours." Additionally, he also featured on The Lox classic "Money Power and Respect." These songs created significant buzz for the then unsigned rapper, Subsequently, the move from feature artist to headliner was seamless. Indeed, his debut effort, It's Dark and Hell is Hot, is widely regarded as one of the greatest debut albums of all time. The album debuted at number one on the Hot 200. Additionally, the project went four times platinum.
DMX was vocal throughout his career about his affiliation with the Ruff Ryders. The crew is a loosely connected group of New York rappers and producers. Moreover, X's popularity and dynamic personality made him the de facto leader of the Ruff Ryders as time progressed. DMX's death sent shockwaves around the world of hip-hop. The New York native had been open about his struggles with drugs and mental health issues. However, his death still caught everyone off guard. Fans and colleagues alike have been spent the past few days sharing their memories of one of the greatest rappers of all time.
[Via]