Last updated by Molly Saxby on Tuesday 19th August 2025

Eminem, born Marshall Mathers, is one of the most influential and controversial figures in music history. Rising from the underground rap scene of Detroit to global superstardom, his career has spanned decades of reinvention, resilience and record-breaking achievements.

From the raw provocation of The Slim Shady LP to the technical mastery of Rap God, Eminem has continually pushed boundaries in both style and subject matter. For a deeper dive into his discography, explore our guide to the best Eminem songs.

The rise of Slim Shady

Eminem’s early success came with the creation of his alter ego, Slim Shady. This unfiltered, provocative persona gave him a platform to express anger, satire and social commentary with shocking honesty.

  • The Slim Shady LP (1999) – Eminem burst onto the mainstream with tracks like ‘My Name Is’ and ‘Guilty Conscience’, earning him a Grammy for Best Rap Album.
  • The Marshall Mathers LP (2000) – Cemented his global fame with hits such as ‘Stan’ and ‘The Real Slim Shady’, combining storytelling with biting cultural critique.

It was here that Eminem developed his reputation as a fearless voice in rap, unafraid to challenge norms and ignite debates.

The Eminem Show: global dominance

The early 2000s saw Eminem reach unprecedented heights.

  • The Eminem Show (2002) – Tracks like ‘Without Me’ and ‘Sing for the Moment’ revealed a more self-aware side while retaining his trademark aggression.
  • 8 Mile (2002) – Eminem’s semi-autobiographical film and its hit single ‘Lose Yourself’ won him an Academy Award, marking a rare crossover from rap to Hollywood recognition.

This period solidified Eminem as not only a controversial figure but also a cultural icon.

Reinvention and resilience

After personal struggles and a break from music, Eminem returned in the late 2000s with a new focus.

  • Relapse (2009) – A dark, theatrical project that showcased his technical skills.
  • Recovery (2010) – Widely regarded as a comeback, featuring hits like ‘Not Afraid’ and ‘Love the Way You Lie’ with Rihanna.

This era highlighted Eminem’s ability to adapt while staying lyrically sharp. Many of his most iconic features come from this period — see our list of the best Eminem collaborations for the full picture.

Rap God and lyrical mastery

In 2013, Eminem released The Marshall Mathers LP 2, featuring the track ‘Rap God’. The song became a defining moment of his later career, with its lightning-fast verses demonstrating unmatched lyrical skill.

This phase cemented Eminem’s legacy as one of the greatest technical rappers in history, capable of evolving while staying relevant in an ever-changing music landscape.

The legacy and impact

Eminem’s journey from Slim Shady to Rap God is more than a career timeline – it represents a constant evolution of artistry, identity and influence. He has sold over 200 million records worldwide, won multiple Grammys, and inspired generations of artists across genres.

Few rappers have maintained his blend of commercial success, cultural impact and technical innovation. Eminem remains both a symbol of hip-hop’s rebellious spirit and a proof of its global reach.

How to experience Eminem in style

Eminem’s concerts are some of the most electrifying in rap history, combining high-energy performances with his extensive catalogue of hits. For fans, seeing him live is more than a concert – it’s a cultural event.

Register your interest in Eminem VIP tickets