When the reigning kings of rap died or disappeared (if you like conspiracy theories), there was an empty feeling in the hardcore rap community. And while DMX has never and would never claim to replace Biggie and Tupac, he was the next hardcore rapper to come into the spotlight.

Unlike Tupac, but like Biggie, DMX started on the East Coast, in the crime-riddled neighborhood of Yonkers, NY. Even at the age of 28, when he put out his first album, DMX hadn’t had an easy life. But his upbringing and time on the streets helped make him the hardcore rapper we still love, today.

A Rough Start

Yonkers, NY isn’t like downtown Manhattan. Where Brooklyn was once a harsh neighborhood, Yonkers still is. It’s on the outskirts of the city, and you could call it any range of descriptive names. But that’s where DMX or Earl Simmons grew up. He spent time in group homes and on the streets, due to having abusive parents at home. His life wasn’t going well… until he found hip hop. When he was just 21, he was mentioned in The Source’s “Unsigned Hype” column for his freestyle skills.

That mention got the attention of Ruffhouse, who signed him and put out the single “Born Loser” in 1992. Due to issues with his label and problems with his drug addictions, he wouldn’t put out his first album (with a different label) until 1998, six years later.

A Bright and Hot Career, Despite Everything

That first album “It’s Dark and Hell is Hot” debuted at number one on the charts in 1998 and he’s had consistent success since. He’s since worked with artists like RedMan, Jay Z, Swiss Beatz, and LL Cool J.

Part of his success is due to him re-signing with DefJam records, but the majority of it goes to DMX’s refusal to give up. He’s battled a lousy childhood, drug addictions, and jail time, but never stopped putting out music.