Swizz Beatz has announced the posthumous album of late hip hop icon, Earl “DMX” Simmons, who died April 9 at age 50.

As executive producer of the album titled, Exodus, Swizz issued a statement about his “brother” of nearly three decades.  

“My brother X was one of the most pure and rare souls I’ve ever met. He lived his life dedicated to his family and music. Most of all, he was generous with his giving and loved his fans beyond measure. This album, X couldn’t wait for his fans all around the world to hear and show just how much he valued each and every single person that has supported him unconditionally.”

Fans are speculating X’s longtime friend and Belly‘s co-star Nas will be featured on Exodus, after he shared the album cover on Instagram. 

Exodus will be DMX’s first album since 2012’s Undisputed and marks the first DMX album under Def Jam Recordings in 18 years. The new album is named after X’s five-year-old son, Exodus Simmons, whom he shared with his fiancé Desiree Lindstrom. The album’s artwork was captured by photographer Jonathan Mannion and features X with the scripture, “Exodus 1:7,” tattooed on his neck. Mannion has captured a number of iconic images of X throughout his career.

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