DMX: New song, X Moves, released on the day of rapper’s death

The track features guest spots from Parliament-Funkadelic bassist Bootsy Collins, Yes guitarist Steve Howe, and Deep Purple drummer Ian Paice

A brand-new DMX track was released hours before news of the rapper's death on Friday (9 April) at 50.

Titled “X Moves”, the rock-crossover track features guest spots from Parliament-Funkadelic bassist Bootsy Collins, Yes guitarist Steve Howe, and Deep Purple drummer Ian Paice.

The New York native, born Earl Simmons, had been on life support at White Plains Hospital since suffering a heart attack on 2 April.

The new single is released by Cleopatra Records, an independent Los Angeles label.

Prior to his death, DMX had been talking about new music coming. Speaking on N.O.R.E.’s Drink Champs podcast in February, DMX name-dropped some notable album guests, including Lil Wayne, Snoop Dogg, Alicia Keys, Usher, and even Bono from U2. It is unclear if "X Moves" is part of that project. His last studio album was 2015’s Redemption of the Beast.

Def Jam, who released DMX’s early career albums like It's Dark and Hell Is Hot, Flesh of My Flesh, Blood of My Blood, ... And Then There Was X, and Grand Champ, released a statement, saying they were “deeply and profoundly saddened by the loss of our brother Earl ‘DMX’ Simmons”.

“DMX was a brilliant artist and an inspiration to millions around the world,” it continued. “His message of triumph over struggle, his search for the light out of darkness, his pursuit of truth and grace brought us closer to our own humanity. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and all those who loved him and were touched by him. DMX was nothing less than a giant. His legend will live on forever.”