WHITE PLAINS, NY (AP) – A prayer vigil was scheduled for Monday in front of New York City’s suburban hospital, where rapper DMX remained in life support Sunday after a heart attack.
The rapper’s family said in an email Sunday that the vigil would be held at White Plains Hospital at 5 p.m.
“On Friday night, April 2, 2021, our brother, son, father and DMX partner, birth name Earl Simmons, was admitted to White Plains Hospital (NY), in front of serious health problems, ”the family said through a publicist. “We ask that you keep Earl / DMX and us in your thoughts, desires and prayers, as well as that you respect our privacy as we face these challenges.”
Another statement released Sunday afternoon said the rapper was in a coma and was in a fan.
Simmons’ attorney, Murray Richman, said the rapper was admitted to the intensive care unit at White Plains Hospital after being cardiac arrest. Richman said he could not confirm reports that DMX, 50, had a drug overdose and was not sure what caused a heart attack.
DMX made a nice touch of rap music in 1998 with their first studio album “It’s Dark and Hell is Hot”, which debuted at number 1 on the Billboard 200. The best-selling album was anchored by several hits, including “Ruff Ryders’ Anthem,” “Get At Me Dog” and “Stop Being Greedy.”
The rapper had four other major albums, including “… And Then There Was X”, “Flesh of My Flesh, Blood of My Blood”, “The Great Depression” and “Grand Champ”. He has released seven albums and won three Grammy nominations.
Along with his music career, DMX paved his way as an actor. He starred in the 1998 film “Belly” and appeared in “Romeo Must Die” a couple of years later with Jet Li and the late singer Aaliyah. DMX and Aaliyah teamed up for the soundtrack song for the movie “Come Back in One Piece”.
The rapper also starred in “Exit Wounds” with Steven Seagal and “Cradle 2 the Grave” with Li.
Over the years, DMX has fought substance abuse. The rapper canceled a series of shows to settle in a rehab center in 2019. In a post on Instagram, his team said he apologized for the canceled programs and thanked his fans continued support.
Last year, DMX faced Snoop Dogg in a battle of Verzuz, which drew more than 500,000 viewers.
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Associated Press writers Dave Collins reported from Hartford, Connecticut, and Jonathan Landrum Jr., from Los Angeles.