Bands & artists like DMX

If you like DMX, these artists play in similar sounds, ideas, or styles. Use this as a starting point to branch out and find something new to listen to.

New to DMX? Start with our listening guide.

Artists to try next

Nas

Nas

Guide

Nas shares DMX's East Coast roots and often explores themes of struggle and resilience in his lyricism, complemented by gritty production.

East Coast hip-hop alternative hip-hop boom bap
Jay-Z

Jay-Z

With a similar East Coast hip-hop background, Jay-Z's storytelling and lyrical depth resonate with the emotional intensity found in DMX's work.

East Coast hip-hop gangsta rap hardcore hip-hop
50 Cent

50 Cent

Guide

50 Cent's blend of gangsta rap and melodic hooks mirrors DMX's ability to balance aggression with moments of vulnerability.

East Coast hip-hop gangsta rap hardcore hip-hop
Scarface

Scarface

Scarface's raw, narrative-driven style and exploration of personal struggles align closely with the emotional weight present in DMX's music.

Southern hip-hop dirty south gangsta rap
Tupac Shakur

Tupac Shakur

Guide

Tupac's powerful delivery and poignant lyrics about hardship and resilience echo the themes prevalent in DMX's discography.

G-funk West Coast hip-hop conscious hip-hop
Busta Rhymes

Busta Rhymes

Guide

Busta Rhymes' energetic flow and commanding presence on tracks resonate with DMX’s dynamic vocal style and high-energy performances.

East Coast hip-hop hardcore hip-hop progressive rap
KRS-One

KRS-One

KRS-One's socially conscious lyrics and aggressive delivery complement DMX's hardcore approach to hip-hop.

East Coast hip-hop boom bap conscious hip-hop
Method Man

Method Man

Method Man’s gritty vocals and street narratives fit well within the same hardcore hip-hop landscape that DMX occupies.

East Coast hip-hop gangsta rap hardcore hip-hop

Common questions

Who sounds like DMX?

Artists similar to DMX include Nas, Jay-Z, 50 Cent and Scarface. Each shares elements of DMX's sound while bringing their own perspective.

What genre is DMX?

DMX is primarily known for gangsta rap, hardcore hip-hop and East Coast hip-hop. DMX's music pulses with relentless energy, driven by heavy rhythms and punctuated by moments of stark emotional intensity that evoke both struggle and resolve.

Where should I start if I like DMX?

If you enjoy DMX, start with Nas — their album "Illmatic" is a great entry point. Nas shares DMX's East Coast roots and often explores themes of struggle and resilience in his lyricism, complemented by gritty production.