DMX's Ex-Wife Speaks After Son's Controversial Remarks at Street Naming Ceremony

Tashera Simmons defends her eldest son, Xavier, after he blasts the late rapper’s fiancée.

DMX and Tashera Simmons smiling together at a Billboard event in front of a step-and-repeat backdrop.
DMX and Tashera Simmons, Feb. 25, 2007.

DMX was given a tremendous honor in his hometown with a local corner being officially renamed “Earl ‘DMX’ Simmons Way.’ Friends and family were on-hand for the ceremonial renaming of the corner of School Street and Brook Street, which took place on Friday, June 12. But the naming ceremony exposed some rifts and bad feelings amongst the late rap superstar’s family. 

Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano, Councilwoman Tasha Diaz, and other city leaders attended the ceremony, where speakers reflected on DMX’s life and legacy. The hip-hop legend’s former collaborators were also there to salute him. According to Black Westchester, Yonkers Councilwoman Tasha Diaz, who represents District 3, sponsored and spearheaded the street renaming. Also in attendance were the rest of the Yonkers City Council; Desiree Lindstrom and Sasha Simmons, co-administrators of the DMX estate; and Ruff Ryders co-founders Darrin "Dee" Dean and Joaquin "Waah" Dean. City of Yonkers Deputy Director of Communications Lisa Reyes was the emcee of the presser.

“Today is more than a street naming,” said Ruff Ryders co-founder Waah Dean. “Today is a celebration of a son of Yonkers whose voice, spirit, and legacy continue to inspire people around the world.”

During the emotional ceremony, DMX’s eldest son, Xavier Simmons, took the stage to speak. After expressing gratitude to those who made the event possible, he turned his attention to his late father’s fiancée. 

“Desiree Lindstrom,” Simmons began. “You have behaved dishonorably.” Simmons spoke for a few seconds before his mic appeared to be abruptly cut. 

DMX’s ex-wife Tashera is defending her son’s statements. 

“Did my son expose these devils? They’ve been exposed,” she said. “Y’all know DMX. Y’all know Tashera. We built the DMX legacy together. There is no X without Tashera. The fact that they came to my hometown and did not want us to be recognized. I’mma let y’all sit with that one.”

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