The producer helped shape rap and R&B after founding the label Murder Inc., which launched artists like Ja Rule and Ashanti.

DMX, Ja Rule and Ashanti, died Wednesday. He was 54. His cause of death has not been made public, but it's known he had battled diabetes for decades and had recently suffered a series of strokes. The Hollywood Reporter first confirmed news of his death.

The Queens native responsible for some of hip hop's biggest acts reportedly passed away Wednesday in New York City.