A judge just shut down Tashera Simmons’ claim to half of DMX’s intellectual property revenue. On April 7, 2025, the court decided DMX’s estate fully owns his copyrights, trademarks, and IP—leaving Simmons with only a slice of royalties from music made during their marriage. Here’s the verdict breakdown.
Court Calls It
Judge David F. Everett ruled, per Digital Music News, that the estate “is the sole owner of all intellectual property rights” DMX gained while married to Simmons (1999-2014) and at his death in 2021. Simmons gets a cut of record and publishing royalties tied to five specific Letters of Direction DMX signed—nothing more. Everett added, “[Simmons] has no income interest” in other earnings from his work or IP. Tough blow for her 50% ownership push.
DMX’s Legacy
DMX passed on April 9, 2021, from a heart attack after organ failure, leaving behind a gritty rap legacy and four kids with Simmons. She’s been open about the loss—on the People Every Day podcast, she said, “Our children are suffering… it’s a tough time.” But she also found peace: “I believe he’s in a better place. He was never afraid of passing on.”
