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Barclays Center to host a memorial for DMX
The memorial, which will be closed to the public but streamed live, is set for April 24, two weeks after the death of the legendary rapper
The Barclays Center will play host to a memorial for Earl “DMX” Simmons this weekend. The announcement, first reported by Page Six, comes as the city is still mourning the death of one of the most iconic rappers of his generation.
While the Barclays Center is limited to 10 percent capacity due to coronavirus restrictions, the memorial will reportedly be closed to the public, though it is expected to be streamed live online.
DMX’s family issued the following statement after his announced death on April 6th:
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. Please respect our privacy as we grieve the loss of our brother, father, uncle and the man the world knew as DMX.
DMX, who died at just 50, began his explosive career in the 1990s, eventually rising to prominence in the early 2000s after his debut album “It’s Dark and Hell is Hot” was released in 1998, featuring the track, “Ruff Ryders’ Anthem.” He would evince a hyper masculinity while also toying with the idea of what it means to be male and vulnerable. He would take up acting later in his career, starring in the 1998 film “Belly” and 2000’s “Romeo Must Die,” and in a surprisingly comedic turn in Chris Rock’s “Top Five” (2014).
DMX, who played Barclays Center twice, inspired and influenced a generation of rappers, including Harlem’s A$AP Rocky and A$AP Ferg. His death triggered an outcry of mourning in the hip hop community, including tributes from Chance the Rapper, Swizz Beatz, Juicy J, Vince Staples, and Brooklyn’s Dot Da Genius, who tweeted out “Rest In Peace DMX. Your music was important for a kid like me growing up in NY. Thank you for everything 🙏🏾”
A private funeral service is also expected to take place at a New York City- area church the day following the memorial.
