RESOLUTION
BY COUNCIL PRESIDENT COLLINS-BELLAMY, MAJORITY LEADER RUBBO, MAJORITY WHIP NORMAN, MINORITY LEADER BREEN, COUNCILMEMBERS, PINEDA-ISAAC, DIAZ AND HODGES:
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RESOLUTION OF THE YONKERS CITY COUNCIL MEMBER TASHA DIAZ TO HONOR THE FAMILY AND COMMUNITY’S REQUEST TO HONORARILY RENAME THE CORNER OF SCHOOL STREET AND BROOKE STREET “EARL ‘DMX’ SIMMONS WAY”
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WHEREAS, Born Earl Simmons on December 18, 1970, DMX was an iconic American rapper, songwriter, and actor. He rose to fame in the 1990s and was celebrated for his unique blend of brutally honest lyrics and his raw, emotional delivery. His explosive 1998 debut album "It's Dark and Hell Is Hot” catapulted DMX to super-stardom. He has sold millions of albums worldwide and is the first rap artist to have five consecutive albums debut at #1 on the Billboard 200. American Music Award and Billboard Music Award winner, and four-time Grammy nominee, DMX’s status as one of hip hop's most important and influential figures has long been solidified; and
WHEREAS, Earl ‘DMX’ Simmons had a complicated life, but his positive impact on Yonkers is real and still felt today. It goes beyond music—he influenced culture, identity, and even community spirit in the city.
He literally put Yonkers on the global map because he proudly repped Yonkers in his music, interviews, and image. For many people worldwide, Yonkers became known because of him. He helped establish Yonkers as a serious contributor to hip-hop culture, alongside NYC boroughs. DMX's music often explored themes of struggle, faith, and redemption, drawing from his own turbulent life experiences. His rough exterior belied a deep spirituality, evident in his recorded prayers and tracks like "Lord Give Me a Sign" and "Slippin'," where he bared his soul with poignant honesty; and
WHEREAS, Growing up in Yonkers public housing and dealing with poverty, abuse, and street life, DMX reflected those realities in his music. His lyrics were raw, emotional, and hones...
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