It's Dark and Hell Is Hot
DMX · 1998
65 min · 19 tracks · gangsta rap · hardcore hip-hop · East Coast hip-hop
Raw and aggressive, DMX's debut blends gritty realism with haunting storytelling over hard-hitting beats.
Why listen to this
- Best for
- raw energy for workout sessions haunting storytelling in headphones dynamic shifts in intensity
- Context
- Released in 1998, 'It's Dark and Hell Is Hot' marked DMX's debut album, establishing him as a major force in hip-hop. At this time, he was transitioning from underground success to mainstream recognition, buoyed by his unique voice and compelling narratives that resonated with listeners. This album laid the groundwork for his subsequent rise in the genre.
- If you like
- gangsta rap, hardcore hip-hop, East Coast hip-hop
It's Dark and Hell Is Hot is an album by DMX, released in 1998. Raw and aggressive, DMX's debut blends gritty realism with haunting storytelling over hard-hitting beats. The album debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 and was certified multi-platinum, solidifying DMX's status in hip-hop. It significantly impacted East Coast rap's resurgence in the late '90s and is often credited with influencing the sound and thematic style of later artists within the genre. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does It's Dark and Hell Is Hot sound like?
Raw and aggressive, DMX's debut blends gritty realism with haunting storytelling over hard-hitting beats. Rooted in gangsta rap and hardcore hip-hop.
What makes It's Dark and Hell Is Hot by DMX notable?
The album debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 and was certified multi-platinum, solidifying DMX's status in hip-hop. It significantly impacted East Coast rap's resurgence in the late '90s and is often credited with influencing the sound and thematic style of later artists within the genre. Released in 1998, 'It's Dark and Hell Is Hot' marked DMX's debut album, establishing him as a major force in hip-hop. At this time, he was transitioning from underground success to mainstream recognition, buoyed by his unique voice and compelling narratives that resonated with listeners. This album laid the groundwork for his subsequent rise in the genre.
Who is It's Dark and Hell Is Hot for?
It's Dark and Hell Is Hot works well if you're into raw energy for workout sessions, haunting storytelling in headphones and dynamic shifts in intensity.
How many songs are on It's Dark and Hell Is Hot?
It's Dark and Hell Is Hot has 19 tracks, running approximately 65 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Intro 4:12
- 2 Ruff Ryders’ Anthem Standout 3:36
- 3 Fuckin’ Wit’ D 2:20
- 4 The Storm (skit) 1:02
- 5 Look Thru My Eyes 3:52
- 6 Get at Me Dog Standout 4:05
- 7 Let Me Fly 4:14
- 8 X‐Is Coming 4:20
- 9 Damien 3:44
- 10 How’s It Goin’ Down Standout 4:44
- 11 Mickey (skit) 0:27
- 12 Crime Story 3:49
- 13 Stop Being Greedy 3:39
- 14 ATF 1:58
- 15 For My Dogs 4:13
- 16 I Can Feel It 4:15
- 17 Prayer (skit) 2:34
- 18 The Convo 3:35
- 19 Niggaz Done Started Something 5:09
Release Date
January 1, 1998
Artist Origin
United States
Runtime
65 min 56 sec
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