Released on Sunday (5.16), the world hears DMX (real name Earl Simmons) in his final words, three weeks before his sudden death!
And following his premature passing, the much-anticipated, posthumous DMX album is set for May 28 release, featuring superstars Jay-Z, Nas, U2 front man, Bono, and more.
Completed just days before his untimely passing, the legendary rappers final full length will be released by Ruff Ryders and Def Jam Recordings, the home of his most famous music, with whom he renewed his contract in 2019. Titled Exodus Simmons, DMX’s uncle, is the name of the LP that is rumored to also feature Usher, Buffalo rap duo Griselda, Alicia Keys, Snoop Dogg, Lil Wayne, and the Lox.
Contained in the album package is a song called ‘X Moves,’ which was released online last month featuring an interesting combination of musicians’ P-Funk bassist Bootsy Collins, Yes guitarist Steve Howe, and Deep Purple drummer Ian Paice, as well as a song written in collaboration with Pop Smoke. ‘Been to War,’ a song from the Epix TV series ‘Godfather of Harlem,’ featuring Swizz Beatz and French Montana was released a week after DMX’s death on April 9, is also expected to appear on the record. DMX’s longtime friend and partner, Swizz, who executively produced the record, described their recent collaborations as “masterful,” noting that “Exodus” was finished before they started recording “Been to War.” Beatz revealed that after finishing the record, he began working on a new song for the soundtrack of “The Godfather of Harlem.”
“If my memory serves me correctly, that was the last vocal he recorded. We let it come out early because he was excited to do it. “Forest Whitaker, the ‘Godfather’ team, and the network all loved the song and wanted it out right away,” said the music producer. DMX’s Verzuz showdown with Snoop Dogg last summer, which is still one of the show’s most-watched episodes, had influenced Swizz to start working on new songs. “He was so happy after doing that Verzuz with Snoop Dogg, and getting back into the music-making mode, that he wanted to get his messages out there, to the people, and have some fun too,” he said.
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Author: Luke Traina
Photo (Cropped): Mika Väisänen