The first posthumous DMX album has just hit streaming platforms. Exodus contains a slew of A-list features from the likes of Jay-Z to Lil Wayne, Nas, Snoop Dogg, Bono, Westside Gunn, Conway the Machine, and Benny the Butcher. There’s even an appearance from DMX’s son, Exodus Simmons. Executive produced and produced by Swizz Beatz, the 13-track record is a humble tribute to DMX and his iconic sound.
Available via Ruff Ryders and Def Jam, Exodus is the first record to come from DMX via Def Jam since his 2003 Grand Champ album. His death in April from an apparent overdose and subsequent heart attack has still left fans in shock. Since they’ve put out his first posthumous album only a month after his death, there may be more to come. It’s always a weird feeling when posthumous albums come out because it can seem like a ploy from the record company for sales. But these sales do in turn allow DMX’s family to live a better life, hopefully.
Exodus
Earlier this week, Def Jam let loose the first single off of Exodus, “Hood Blues” featuring Westside Gunn, Benny the Butcher, and Conway the Machine. Each track on the album spans legendary East Coast flows and instrumentals, with influences from the West sneaking in. “Take Control” featuring Snoop Dogg is a standout track with a West Coast bop and clean Marvin Gaye samples on the hook. Tracks like “Hold Me Down” featuring Alicia Keys speak to his prominent religious views. The last track “Prayer,” and the title of the album itself hammer in the importance of God to X.
DMX was 50-years-old when he died at his home in White Plains, New York. Later that month, a huge memorial service was held for the legendary emcee at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center. Seeing the world’s response to the death of X has really proven his impact. More than just the voice of some of the most legendary party anthems, DMX is an icon of early 2000s hip-hop culture. Listen to Exodus below and continue DMX’s legacy.
