As rapper DMX fights for his life, well-wishes pour in from around the world

Rapper DMX “remains in ICU in critical condition” according to a family statement, as tens of thousands of fans and well-wishers across the world post messages to social media platforms praying for the recovery of the veteran performer.

The 50-year-old musician whose real name is Earl Simmons was hospitalized on Friday night after suffering cardiac arrest from a drug overdose. It has not been revealed what drug he overdosed on but DMX has not in the past hidden his challenges of overcoming an addiction to crack cocaine.

DMX, who is the father of 15 children, is expected to have them by his side in the New York hospital by Sunday. The statement from his family that was published by TMZ said:

The Simmons Family appreciates the overwhelming outpouring of heartfelt love, encouragement, support and prayers for Earl. Earl is someone whose life and music have been a source of inspiration and strength to so many people around the world. It is reassuring to see his fans return that same passion and energy to him during his time of need.”

Such has been the volume of prayerful response to DMX’s hospitalization that some even outside the world of hip hop have publicized messages of prayer for his recovery.

Daughter of civil rights legend Martin Luther King Jr., Bernice King, tweeted: “Praying for #DMX. Miracles happen.”

The message from the music world was led by DMX’s frenemy Ja Rule who took to his Twitter to say: “Prayers up for my brother DMX.” Along with music mogul Jay Z, DMx and Ja Rule were in the short-lived New York hip hop group known as Murder Inc. The group was formed by producer Irv Gotti and enjoyed modest success.

Chance The Rapper, Missy Elliott, Rick Ross and Eminem have all posted messages asking for prayers for DMX.