Family of DMX asks for prayers and holds vigil outside New York hospital

The family of famed rapper DMX is holding a vigil outside the New York hospital where the 50-year-old is hospitalized after suffering a heart attack. The rapper, whose real name is Earl Simmons, was hospitalized Friday and is now facing "facing serious health issues," his family said.

"We ask that you please keep Earl/DMX and us in your thoughts, wishes, and prayers as well as respect our privacy as we face these challenges," his family said in a statement to Entertainment Tonight. The vigil was scheduled to begin at 5 p.m. ET outside White Plains Hospital.  Known for his electrifying hits, DMX defined the 2000s era of hip-hop, earning five consecutive No. 1 album debuts on the Billboard 200 chart. He was nominated for three Grammy Awards throughout his career. He also received nominations for the BET Award for Video of the Year in 2006 and the MTV Movie Award for breakthrough male performance for 2001's "Exit Wounds."