N.O.R.E. & DJ EFN are the Drink Champs. In this classic throwback episode we chop it up with the iconic, DMX!

The late Earl Simmons, better known as DMX, was a force of nature in hip-hop, a voice that roared with pain, triumph, and resilience. When X sat down with N.O.R.E. and DJ EFN on “Drink Champs,” he didn’t hold back. This wasn’t just another interview—it was an unfiltered glimpse into the life of a hip-hop icon who lived his truth, raw and uncut.

The Ruff Ryders Era: Loyalty and Brotherhood

DMX came up during an era when loyalty defined success. Speaking candidly about his time with the Ruff Ryders, X painted a vivid picture of what it meant to ride or die. “It was deeper than music,” he said. “We were family.” That bond propelled the Ruff Ryders from a street-level movement to a global phenomenon, delivering classics like It’s Dark and Hell Is Hot and Flesh of My Flesh, Blood of My Blood.

Through the laughter and tequila shots, DMX revealed the discipline and grit it took to reach those heights. “When you’re in the studio grinding, it’s not about fame,” he emphasized. “It’s about the message.” His message resonated because it was authentic, a mirror to the struggles of millions who saw themselves in his music.

Faith and Struggle: The Duality of DMX

A recurring theme in DMX’s journey was his battle between faith and personal demons. On the show, he spoke openly about how his faith kept him grounded during his darkest moments. “God’s been my anchor,” he shared. “Even when I felt like giving up, He pulled me back.”

X’s honesty about his struggles with addiction and mental health was both heartbreaking and inspiring. He wasn’t afraid to admit his flaws, and that vulnerability endeared him to fans. “People see me as a rapper,” he said, “but I’m human first. I’ve made mistakes, but I’ve also learned from them.”

A Love for the Culture

Hip-hop wasn’t just a career for DMX—it was his lifeline. During the interview, his passion for the culture shone through. He reminisced about battling on street corners and earning respect the hard way. “Back then, you had to prove yourself,” he recalled. “There was no Instagram. Your skills spoke for you.”

X also touched on the evolution of the game, expressing mixed feelings about its current state. While he appreciated the genre’s growth, he was critical of the lack of substance in some of today’s music. “Hip-hop is supposed to tell a story,” he said. “Don’t just give me a beat; give me your soul.”

Fatherhood and Redemption

Perhaps the most touching moments of the interview came when DMX spoke about his role as a father. Despite his hectic life, he strived to be present for his children. “Being a dad is the real legacy,” he said with pride. “It’s not about the plaques on the wall; it’s about the lessons you leave behind.”

Fatherhood, for X, was a source of redemption. He admitted that his past mistakes weighed heavily on him, but he was determined to set a better example. “I’m not perfect,” he said. “But I’m trying. And that’s what matters.”

The Power of Prayer

Prayer was a cornerstone of DMX’s life, and he wasn’t shy about sharing that with the world. Throughout the episode, he broke into spontaneous prayers, his words flowing with conviction and emotion. “Prayer is how I connect,” he explained. “It’s my way of staying grounded.”

For X, prayer wasn’t just a private ritual; it was a way to uplift others. He often ended his concerts with a prayer, a moment of unity that transcended the music. “If I can touch one person,” he said, “then I’ve done my job.”

Legacy of a Legend

DMX’s time on Drink Champs was more than an interview; it was a celebration of a life lived with intensity and purpose. He left behind a legacy that continues to inspire. Whether it’s his unapologetic honesty, his devotion to family, or his contributions to hip-hop, DMX’s impact is undeniable.

As the episode wrapped up, X delivered a parting message that encapsulated his philosophy: “Live for the moment but build for tomorrow. And never forget where you came from.”

DMX’s journey was far from perfect, but that imperfection is what made it real. He was a man who lived his truth, fought his battles, and left an indelible mark on the world. And for that, we say thank you, X. Rest in power.

*This episode was originally released on April 8th, 2016*