PHOENIX (AP) -- Musician DMX rapped about rebounding from struggle outside a Phoenix courtroom Thursday after pleading not guilty to felony charges of theft and identity theft.

Then he plugged an album.

DMX, whose real name is Earl Simmons, simply rapped when asked for comment by reporters following the hearing in Maricopa County Superior Court.

"If and when you ever fall down, get back up ... Stand for something or fall for everything. Wait for the right pitch, you'll miss every swing," he rapped.

DMX's lawyer, Charles Kozelka, then pulled him away as the rapper urged reporters to look for his next album.

DMX, 37, appeared in court clad in a black T-shirt, jeans and a gold chain. The judge admonished him when he flashed a peace sign at a court camera.

Authorities said the rapper gave the name "Troy Jones" and an incorrect Social Security number to a Scottsdale hospital in April to avoid paying $7,500 in medical expenses.

DMX has a hip-hop album, "Walk With Me Now," slated for release Oct. 14 and a gospel album, "You'll Fly With Me Later," in the works.

The rapper's record label, Bodog Music, is sticking by its artist.

"We wouldn't work with DMX period if we didn't believe he was just a victim of circumstance," said Peter Karroll, president of Bodog Music. "The sheriff in Phoenix is definitely targeting him. It's unbelievable."

The theft and identity theft charges in that case come after months of trouble for the rapper. He was arrested at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport earlier this month on outstanding warrants after he failed to appear in court.

The week before, he was arrested in Miami on charges of attempting to purchase cocaine and marijuana.

DMX also faces multiple charges of drug possession and cruelty to animals in Phoenix. He is due in court Aug. 12 relating to those charges.

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