Top Picks: Eminem

Will the real Slim Shady please stand up?

For two decades, Marshall Bruce Mathers, also known as Eminem, has established himself as one of the most influential yet controversial rappers in music history. Known for popularizing hip-hop in middle-class America, Eminem remains a respected music figure largely because of his ability to break racial barriers and give respect to white rappers. His songs often center around angst, childhood trauma, loneliness, depression and self-deprecation. 

With over 220 million records sold worldwide, Eminem is one of the highest-selling artists of all time. During his nearly thirty-year career, Eminem has received multiple accolades including multiple Grammy Awards, American Music Awards, Billboard Music Awards, and an Academy Award. For his 50th birthday on October 17, we're taking a look at the top picks of this iconic rapper's career.

After the commercial failure of his debut album Infinite, Eminem became a household name thanks to his second studio album The Slim Shady LP, which introduced his titular alter-ego. Produced by his mentor Dr. Dre, the album is heavily profane, satirical and autobiographical. The album not only served as an introduction to the rapper, but also won him two Grammy Awards for Best Rap Album and Best Rap Solo Performance for the song My Name Is.

As with its predecessor, The Marshall Mathers LP was a controversial and critical success that propelled Eminem to the forefront of American pop culture. Emotionally deep and lyrically profound, Eminem's lyrical range can be heard on standout singles such as The Real Slim Shady, The Way I Am and the iconic fan favorite, Stan.

Eminem made his acting debut in the autobiographical film 8 Mile. As the struggling white rapper Jimmy "B-Rabbit" Smith, Eminem's heartfelt performance polarized audiences and critics. Included in the film is the chart-topping single Lose Yourself, which became the first hip-hop song to win an Academy Award for Best Original Song.

In 2020, Eminem released his eleventh studio album Music to Be Murdered by. A dark and visceral project, the album includes collaborations with various musicians such as Anderson .Paak, Ed Sheeran and the late Juice WRLD to create his signature style of music. 

What's your favorite album by Eminem? Do you have a favorite song? Let us know in the comments below.