On this day in Hip Hop history DMX released his second studio album, Flesh of My Flesh, Blood of My Blood. This was the follow up LP to his widely successful debut album. Released roughly 7 months after It’s Dark and Hell is Hot, this project also debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200 chart. DMX is second only to 2pac on the list of rappers to have two #1 albums come out in the same year. Flesh of My Flesh, Blood of My Blood retained the #1 spot for 3 consecutive weeks. The album sold 670,000 copies in its first week and went on to be certified triple platinum.
After the success of his debut album, this project effectively cemented DMX’s place in the high ranks of rap during this era. DMX’s style was something fresh at this time. His raw energy and no holds barred lyricism mixed with the penetrating drums and piercing synths of his production, mainly from Swizz Beats, created a sound that shook the game at the time. DMX was one of the first to focus more on the emotion behind what he was saying rather than lyrical precision, which made his music something to desire. The ferocity of this album is a sound that could be appreciated on the dance floor or in the weight room. This was definitely a Ruff Ryders album. DMX even recruited a star-studded cast of features for this project. Some of the vocal appearances include: Jay-Z, Jadakiss, Mary J Blige, Styles P, the LOX and Marilyn Mason.
Although this project wasn’t as successful as its predecessor, it was a phenomenal follow and paved the way for DMX’s most successful album, …And Then There Was X. This was a very spiritual album for DMX and was riddled with references to his battle with good and evil in the streets and the music industry. The career that came after this project consisted of pure greatness. DMX sold out international tours, was nominated for Grammy’s and other prestigious awards, and even became an action star on the big screen. Although his career was cut down by trials and tribulations in his personal life, the legacy of X is one that cannot be eclipsed.
