Fans visit a makeshift memorial for musician and actor DMX [Image: Reuters]

Fans have been paying their respects to rapper DMX following his death on Friday.

DMX, whose real name is Earl Simmons, went into cardiac arrest earlier in the month and was rushed to White Plains Hospital, north of New York City.

And following his passing fans were quick to show their respect to the rapper, 50.

Almost immediately after the news broke of his death there was a makeshift memorial wall created outside of the hospital.

Loyal followers to the hip-hop icon have been lighting candles, leaving flowers and stuffed animals and writing notes of condolence, love and support for DMX and his family.

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Three large gold balloons had also been left at the memorial to spell out DMX.

Fans have continued to gather near to the hospital as they have done since the star's arrival.

A fan pays tribute at a makeshift memorial for musician and actor DMX outside White Plains Hospital [Image: Reuters])

But, prayers of hope for his survival have now turned to mourning and fans have taken to playing his music and break dancing to honour his life.

While he lay in a coma this week, the rapper was surrounded by his family, including his mum Arnett Simmons and his 15 children.

Fellow musicians took to social media to show their respects to the star.

DMX's fellow rapper T.I. tweeted: "Rest In Peace to a cultural icon. There are no words that can mend the loss the hip-hop community felt today #RIPDMX."

Akon also shared his thanks to DMX "for the music".

The rapper's family confirmed his passing on Friday in a statement to People magazine following false reports overnight that the star had died.

The statement read: "We are deeply saddened to announce today that our loved one, DMX, birth name of Earl Simmons, passed away at 50 years old at White Plains Hospital with his family by his side after being placed on life support for the past few days.

"Earl was a warrior who fought till the very end. He loved his family with all of his heart and we cherish the times we spent with him.

"Earl's music inspired countless fans across the world and his iconic legacy will live on forever."

The late DMX [Courtesy]