Personnel: DMX, Sheek, Big Stan, Loose, Kasino, Dragon, The Lox, Mase (rap vocals); Nardo (vocals). Producers include: Irv Gotti, Lil' Rob, Swizz, PK, Dame Grease. Engineers include: Patrick Viala, Justice Johnson, Rich Keller. Producers include: Irv Gotti, Lil' Rob, Swizz, PK, Dame Grease. Engineers include: Patrick Viala, Justice Johnson, Rich Keller. In 1998, DMX brings new energy to a laid-back hip-hop scene. While various MCs have been busy partying and dancing, DMX has been amping himself up for a powerful debut. IT'S DARK AND HELL IS HOT is the first full-length release from the rapper, despite an attempt to break through in 1993. It wasn't until legendary rap label Def Jam got a hold of him that DMX's career began to take off. While being featured on a number of blazing posse cuts, DMX took hip-hoppers to the next level with his smash single, "Get At Me Dog." With tight production and lyrical gymnastics, DMX puts the hardcore back into hip-hop.

• Genre: Pop
• Format: Vinyl
• Released: 11/19/2013