Eminem is back, and it seems like the old Slim Shady is alive and well. The iconic Detroit rapper dropped his first single, ‘Houdini,’ today, kicking off the promotion for his upcoming album, ‘The Death of Slim Shady (Coup de Grâce)‘.
While the title hints at a potential farewell, the song itself is a vintage Eminem experience. The song is a no-holds-barred lyrical onslaught that spares no one not even his own kids.
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Eminem Brings Back Slim Shady With ‘Houdini’
‘Houdini’ opens with a sample of the Steve Miller Band’s ‘Abracadabra’ before launching into a familiar melody. Fans will instantly recognize the iconic “Guess who’s back, back again?” intro from Eminem’s 2002 smash hit, ‘Without Me.’ This sets the tone for the rest of the track.
Eminem takes aim at various targets throughout the song. He throws jabs at Megan Thee Stallion and her getting shot in the foot by Tory Lanez, questioning his chances of getting a collaboration with her. He also pokes fun at his own aging career, referencing the recent string of high-profile retirements in the music industry.
However, the most shocking element of the song comes in the form of a self-deprecating tirade that extends to his own family. Eminem throws a quick but undeniable diss at his daughters, Hailie Jade, Alaina, and Stevie, calling them “brats” in a line that has already sparked controversy online.
The inclusion of this line has left fans divided. Some see it as a classic Eminem move, others argue that it’s all part of the act, a way to generate buzz for the album. Additionally, Eminem has a long history of using outrageous lyrics to push boundaries and provoke reactions. However, people are concerned about the potential impact on his relationship with his daughters.
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Is ‘The Death Of Slim Shady’ A Publicity Stunt Or A Genuine Farewell?
Eminem has spoken openly about the challenges of fatherhood in the past, particularly in his relationship with his ex-wife Kim Scott. Some fans worry that this new diss track might damage their already fragile bond. Additionally, it’s also worth noting the album title, ‘The Death of Slim Shady (Coup de Grâce).’
This could be interpreted as a symbolic farewell to Eminem’s most controversial persona. Perhaps ‘Houdini’ is a way of reminding listeners of what they might be losing. Only time will tell what Eminem’s true intentions are. Additionally, With ‘Houdini,’ he’s ensured that ‘The Death of Slim Shady’ will be one of the most talked-about albums of the year.
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