UPDATE: Multiple sources have confirmed the worst: New York rapper DMX has tragically passed away at the age of 50.
The global Hip-Hop community has been holding its breath for a week, hoping for X to miraculously come out of a comatose state he has been in since Friday, 2 April.
‘RIP DMX’ claims are untrue – Steven Rifkind says
According to reports, a series of tests that were conducted on the 50-year-old on Wednesday showed no signs of brain activity, leaving X’s family with a very difficult decision confronting them.
Earlier, DMX’s manager Steven Rifkind had released a recorded statement, pleading with fans to stop spreading news of the rapper’s passing prematurely.
Rifkind was forced to step in front of the camera and address the world on what’s really going on with the rapper.
“Everybody please stop with posting… with these rumours. DMX is still alive, yes he is on life support. Please, it’s not helping anybody by having seen these false rumours. Let the family relax for a night,” Rifkind pleaded, barely able to contain his emotions.
Family expected to release a statement on Friday
After days of no signal, the family released a statement, confirming that DMX, real name Earl Simmons had succumbed to a heart attack prompted by a drug overdose.
“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,” the statement read.
According to TMZ, Wednesday’s tests were crucial in determining the possibility of X coming out of a coma. Unfortunately, five days in, the rapper’s brain activity had remained numb.
At this time, no further details on the rapper’s send-off have been revealed.
This is a developing story.