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Steve Rifkind is speaking out to clarify reports about the late DMX ’s 2021 funeral expenses, pushing back on claims made by the rapper’s longtime manager and uncle, Ray Copeland.
Over the weekend, Rifkind addressed comments suggesting that major artists and industry figures, including Def Jam and Swizz Beatz, declined to help cover the costs. Rifkind strongly denied that version of events.
“I was there every step of the way,” Rifkind wrote on social media. “I was his manager at the time. So, for the record, Swizz paid 80% of the funeral. Def Jam paid for the funeral.”
Rifkind also noted that a third contributor, who wishes to remain anonymous, helped cover the remaining costs. He praised Swizz Beatz’s ongoing support of DMX ’s family, saying the producer has consistently assisted behind the scenes.
“I knew he wasn’t going to say anything,” Rifkind added. “It needs to be said that he was there every step of the way and orchestrated the most beautiful funeral at Barclays.”
In a recent interview Uncle Ray said he initially reached out to Swizz, Rifkind, Def Jam, and the Ruff Ryders team for financial help but was told “they didn’t have it.” He claimed that, while some assistance came later, it didn’t cover the full costs.
“Def Jam [later] gave me $35,000 — that’s it,” Copeland said. “They later told the media they paid for the funeral. That’s not true. Kanye West took care of everything at the Barclays Center.”
According to Copeland, he, business associate Germaine Miller, and attorney Ron Sweeney personally covered the $150,000 funeral bill.
Rifkind, however, disputes that account. “I don’t know why you’re saying something like this,” he said, directly addressing Copeland. “Just tell the truth. Def Jam paid something, Swizz paid something, and the third person paid something.”
