DMX's Posthumous Album 'Exodus' Gets Release Date
The legacy continues.
Just one month after his death, DMX’s posthumous album Exodus has been announced. Executive produced by Swizz Beatz, the rap legend’s eighth studio album is set for release on May 28 featuring all-new original recordings.
“My brother X was one of the most pure and rare souls I’ve ever met,” Swizz said in a statement. “He lived his life dedicated to his family and music. Most of all, he was generous with his giving and loved his fans beyond measure. This album, X couldn’t wait for his fans all around the world to hear and show just how much he valued each and every single person that has supported him unconditionally.”
According to a press release, “themes of redemption weave throughout Exodus,” which is also the name of DMX’s youngest son, Exodus Simmons. The artwork was shot by Jonathan Mannion, who captured some of DMX’s most iconic images throughout his career. X also had the Bible passage “Exodus 1:7” tattooed on his neck.
Exodus marks DMX’s first album since 2012’s Undisputed and his first on Def Jam in 18 years. During one of his final interviews with N.O.R.E.’s “Drink Champs” podcast earlier this year, X revealed some of the featured guests including the late Pop Smoke, Lil Wayne, Snoop Dogg, Alicia Keys, and Usher, as well as members of the Griselda crew including Benny the Butcher, Conway the Machine, and Westside Gunn.
He also had a collaboration with U2’s Bono called “Skyscrapers.” “It’s crazy,” X said of the track, which was originally recorded for Swizz’ album Haute Living in 2011 and featured Kanye West. “It got like a Miami feel to it. I feel like I want to shoot the video here.”
In an interview with Fox 5 New York, Darrin “Dee” Dean of Ruff Ryders spoke about Exodus. “It’s sad that he’s not gonna be here, but the music…This album right here is special,” he said. “Like you probably never heard no music like you heard on this one that we did right now. This is probably one of his great albums. One of the best. It’s a classic, for sure.”
DMX died on April 9 after suffering a heart attack. He was 50.