What does ... And Then There Was X sound like?

Raucous beats and raw, unfiltered lyrics collide, encapsulating the gritty essence of late '90s East Coast hip-hop. Rooted in gangsta rap and hardcore hip-hop. Start with "One More Road to Cross".

Is ... And Then There Was X a good place to start with DMX?

Yes, ... And Then There Was X is recommended as a starting point for new DMX listeners. Raucous beats and raw, unfiltered lyrics collide, encapsulating the gritty essence of late '90s East Coast hip-hop. Released in January 1999, ... And Then There Was X marked DMX's third studio album following his breakthrough with It's Dark and Hell Is Hot and Flesh of My Flesh, Blood of My Blood. At this point in his career, DMX was solidifying his status as a major figure in hip-hop, with a unique blend of vulnerability and aggression that resonated deeply with audiences.

Who is ... And Then There Was X for?

... And Then There Was X works well if you're into dynamic emotional journeys, brief, impactful interludes and reflective late-night listening.

How many songs are on ... And Then There Was X?

... And Then There Was X has 18 tracks, running approximately 60 minutes.

... And Then There Was X

DMX · 1999

60 min · 18 tracks · gangsta rap

Raucous beats and raw, unfiltered lyrics collide, encapsulating the gritty essence of late '90s East Coast hip-hop.

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Top tracks — play these first

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One More Road to Cross Start here — accessible entry with immediate hook
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Party Up — This anthem captures DMX's wild energy and party spirit, featuring a catchy hook that became a staple at events and gatherings.
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What These Bitches Want — A collaboration with Sisqo, this track showcases DMX’s lyrical dexterity and ability to blend vulnerability with bravado, becoming a commercial hit.
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What's My Name? — The track encapsulates DMX's unique persona, utilizing call-and-response hooks that engage listeners while highlighting his distinctive vocal delivery.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

52 /100

Foothills

Higher than 38% of albums we've rated

The album balances aggressive energy with introspective themes but lacks a strong cohesive flow.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

dynamic emotional journeys
brief, impactful interludes
reflective late-night listening
strong storytelling elements

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This album solidified DMX's reputation as a leading voice in hip-hop.
Themes: Christian redemption· party culture· personal demons
Career context: Released in January 1999, ... And Then There Was X marked DMX's third studio album following his breakthrough with It's Dark and Hell Is Hot and Flesh of My Flesh, Blood of My Blood. At this point in his career, DMX was solidifying his status as a major figure in hip-hop, with a unique blend of vulnerability and aggression that resonated deeply with audiences.
Stylistic neighbors: Nas· Jay-Z· 50 Cent