DMX's Public Memorial To Be Held At Brooklyn's Barclays Center

Brooklyn, NY – DMX’s manager Steve Rifkind has revealed the late Hip Hop legend’s public memorial service will be held at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn on Saturday (April 24).

While logistics of the event are still being finalized, the 19,000-capacity venue will have COVID-19 restrictions and protocols set in place, according to TMZ. Another private service will be held for DMX’s close friends and family at an undisclosed church in New York City the following day.

The Simmons family was initially considering having the public memorial in his hometown of Yonkers and Mayor Mike Spano was open to holding it at Yonkers Raceway, the city’s largest venue. But the City of Yonkers is working on a different way to honor him, possibly with a street named after him.

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DMX passed away at White Plains Hospital in White Plains, New York on April 9 following a reported drug overdose and subsequent heart attack. The Ruff Ryders legend was placed on life support upon arrival but never regained consciousness. In the wake of his death, the Simmons family issued a statement thanking all of his fans for their continued support.

“We are deeply saddened to announce today that our loved one, DMX, birth name of Earl Simmons, passed away at 50-years-old at White Plains Hospital with his family by his side after being placed on life support for the past few days,” the statement read. “DMX 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.”

DMX was 50 years old at the time of his death and leaves behind 15 children. He was reportedly finished with his first post-prison album, which Def Jam Recordings and Ruff Ryders plan on releasing in the near future. Guests include Lil Wayne, Snoop Dogg, Griselda, the late Pop Smoke, The LOX, Alicia Keys, Usher, U2’s Bono and more.

Check out one of DMX’s last Barclays performance below.