DMX’s ‘It’s Dark And Hell Is Hot’ Turns 15

posted in: Music News

Nostalgia is everywhere this year, and a lot of it has to do with music. The first generation of people to grow up fully embracing the internet are now in their early twenties and pining for the simplicity of a decade before with tumblrs, tweets, status updates, gifs, instagrams, and pinterest boards dedicated to the things that we credit for making us who we are today. I too am guilty of aiding this obsession with the recent past, and today another modern classic hit a special anniversary.

Fifteen years ago today, DMX released his debut album It’s Dark And Hell Is Hot. The album featured the breakout single “Ruff Ryders Anthem,” as well as a number of additional fan favorites. At the time there was no other emcee in hip hop with the kind of aggressive flow X was bringing to the mic, and it was this released that went on to spawn a million imitations. Join us in remembering this classic and view one of its biggest videos below.