KEY POINTS

  • DMX's family denied the rumors that Beyoncé and Jay-Z bought his master recordings
  • The late rapper's family also said that they are not selling any merchandise or raising money for his funeral
  • His family will keep the public posted on his funeral and memorial service arrangements

DMX's family has responded to rumors and speculations that have surfaced since the late rapper's death on Friday, including that someone has already brought his master recordings.

In a statement released Monday, DMX's family warned fans about scammers who are trying to profit in the wake of his death. They denied that his master recordings have been sold and assured fans that they would provide updates on DMX's memorial service.

"There have been a few rumors following our loved one, Earl Simmons’, passing that we’d like to clear up," the family said in a statement obtained by Entertainment Tonight. "No one has bought Earl’s masters."

This may be a response to the rumors circulating that Beyoncé and Jay-Z purchased the late Grammy-nominated artist's master recordings. Some speculated that the couple spent $10 million to buy them.

"We are not selling any merch or raising money for Earl’s funeral," they continued, warning fans against people selling DMX merchandise. "If anyone is requesting for money for his funeral please be aware the person is a scammer. We will keep the public posted on funeral/memorial service arrangements."

The 50-year-old rapper died a week after he was admitted to the White Plains Hospital in New York following a heart attack. He was rushed to the hospital on April 2 and was in a vegetative state for a week. An unnamed source close to DMX told ET that the medical staff "tried to revive him twice in the house, and revived him again in the hospital."

While he was hospitalized, about 500 people gathered together for a vigil as he fought for his life. However, his family announced his passing just days later as they paid tribute to his life.

"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. "Earl 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."

His ex-wife, Tashera Simmons, also paid tribute to him on her 50th birthday. She called him her "spiritual partner," "best friend" and "mentor."

"I also thank God for his life and his peace. And his journey and his life lessons that were passed on and that will live on for generations to come," she wrote on Instagram.

Simmons was married to DMX in 1988, but they split in 2005 and she filed for divorce in 2012. They share four children: Xavier, Tacoma, Praise Mary Ella and Sean.

DMX
Rapper DMX was “saved” by police after he collapsed in Yonkers, New York, Monday. He is pictured in 2000. Reuters