Google unveiled its top U.S. trending searches for the year and near the top of the list sits DMX at No. 2. He was also listed as No. 1 in trending searches honoring those who've passed in the U.S., a report shared with Blavity revealed. The "Slippin'" rapper died in April after suffering a heart attack that was the result of an overdose. His family confirmed his death in a statement at the time. 

"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," they wrote to People magazine. "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. We appreciate all of the love and support during this incredibly difficult time. Please respect our privacy as we grieve the loss of our brother, father, uncle and the man the world knew as DMX. We will share information about his memorial service once details are finalized," the statement continued.

The rapper's name trended online for weeks as millions flooded social media with touching tributes, including several celebrities such as Eve, Missy Elliott, LeBron James and others. Fans continued to mourn as they watched his livestreamed funeral service, which, along with family members, also featured visits from Swizz Beatz, Nas and other members of Ruff Ryders Entertainment. 

Michael K. Williams and Biz Markie were also on a list of trending searches specifically about those who died. On that list, Williams was ranked at No. 6 on the list and Markie was listed at No. 10.

Williams died in September of an accidental drug overdose. At the time, medical examiners described the cause of death as “acute intoxication by the combined effects of fentanyl, p-fluorofentanyl, heroin and cocaine,” according to Deadline. Biz Markie died in July after the "Just a Friend" rapper had a stroke months prior and had been receiving medical attention from a hospital. He also lived with Type 2 diabetes. 

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