DMX’s family, closest collaborators, and a wave of new Hip-Hop talent will come together at SOB’s on December 18 for a heartfelt birthday tribute celebrating his life, legacy, and impact on the culture. The event honors what would have been the rap legend’s 55th birthday. DMX passed away in April 2021 after suffering a heart attack due to a drug overdose. After his death, the hip-hop community was forever changed.
SOB’s is partnering with the Estate of Earl “DMX” Simmons and renowned photographer Jonathan Mannion to present DMX 55, a special night dedicated to the Yonkers rap legend. The tribute falls on the day he was born and will highlight the powerful music, raw honesty, and dominant energy DMX gave to Hip-Hop.
Desiree Lindstrom, his fiancée at the time of his passing, and his daughter Sasha Simmons shared how much this celebration means to them. They described DMX as an “artist, father, friend, and spiritual fighter: who inspired people with his truth and faith. They said DMX 55 honors not only everything he accomplished, but also the love he gave, and continues to receive.
The lineup includes performances from Denzel Curry and .idk., two artists who have often spoken about how DMX shaped their creativity. Friends, family, and longtime supporters are also expected to make appearances throughout the night.
.idk. shared that performing on X’s birthday is more than just another show for him, it’s a true tribute to someone whose voice and energy still guide his work.
DJ SNS, who also has a December 18 birthday, will DJ the event. He recalled getting one of DMX’s early singles, “Born Loser,” back when the rapper was still rising, and says losing X felt like getting the wind knocked out of him. “I’ll support DMX until the day I’m gone,” he said.
The night also brings things full circle. DMX performed at SOB’s in the 1990s, long before It’s Dark and Hell Is Hot made him a superstar. Jonathan Mannion, the photographer behind some of DMX’s most iconic album covers, says the tribute will honor both the legacy he captured through his lens and the new talent pushing Hip-Hop forward today.
