The Hip Hop world suffered a major blow when the news broke that DMX died from a drug overdose back in April of this year. Not only was he was a phenomenal rapper, but he was somewhat of an innovator. Like, when he dropped two albums, It’s Dark and Hell is Hot and Flesh of My Flesh, Blood of My Blood, in the same year (1998). Of course, this doesn’t come as a big deal now since rappers are dropping mixtapes at the drop of a hat. But back then, you only got an album from your favorite rapper every two to three years. Needless to say, this was a huge. Let’s talk about it…
In 1998, It’s Dark and Hell is Hot, X’s first release, debuted at number one on the Billboard 200. Personally, I was impress with his gritty and lyrical style during my first listening session. This album had many bangers on there. The Swizz Beatz-produced “The Ruff Ryders Anthem” was the real party starter.
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“How’s It Goin’ Down,” a song detailing a secret love affair, was my jam too. Ja Rule makes a guest feature in the video. Of course, this was before the beef popped off between the two. Irv Gotti and Eve was in the video as well.
Surprisingly, X would keep the winning ways going with the release of Flesh of My Flesh, Blood of My Blood, his second release seven months later. He used the same winning formula, which was his rough and gritty style.
The album’s notable single is “Slippin’.”
“Bring Your Whole Crew” and “The Omen” were some of the other stand out tracks. However, the Lox-assisted, “We Don’t Give a Fuck,” a track about a disloyal friend, was one of my personal favorites.
“I let you get too close and you bit me,” X raps. “I closed my eyes for too long, you tried to hit me.”
Like X’s debut, Flesh of My Flesh, Blood of My Blood debuted at number 1 on the Billboards 200.
According to many Hip Hop historians, 1998 was one of the best years Hip Hop had seen since ’88. X is the only artist who could say he contributed two solo albums to the magical year. Between the two, which was the better album: “Get At Me Dog!” RIP DMX
DMX’s ‘It’s Dark and Hell is Hot’ or ‘Flesh of My Flesh, Blood of My Blood’?
Polls Are Closed!!
It’s Dark and Hell is Hot – 71%
Flesh of My Flesh, Blood of My Blood – 29%