What makes Ruff Ryders' Anthem by DMX notable?

The song became a defining hit for DMX, reaching the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming synonymous with the Ruff Ryders collective. Its influence extended beyond charts, energizing a generation of hip-hop artists and contributing to the rise of East Coast rap during the late '90s. Released in January 1998, 'Ruff Ryders' Anthem' came shortly after DMX's breakthrough debut album, 'It's Dark and Hell Is Hot'. This track solidified his status in the hip-hop scene, showcasing his distinct blend of aggression and vulnerability during a period of rapid ascendance in his career.