Eminem

  • Born October 17 , 1972 · St. Joseph, Missouri, USA
  • Birth name Marshall Bruce Mathers III
  • Height 5′ 8″ (1.73 m)
  • Eminem was born Marshall Bruce Mathers III in St. Joseph, Missouri, to Deborah R. (Nelson) and Marshall Bruce Mathers, Jr., who were in a band together, Daddy Warbucks. He is of English, as well as some German, Scottish, and Swiss-German, ancestry. Marshall spent his early childhood being shoved back and forth from Kansas City and Detroit. He settled on the Eastside of Detroit when he was 12. Switching schools every two to three months made it difficult to make friends, graduate and to stay out of trouble. Marshall attended Lincoln High School in Warren, Michigan, 1986-1989. Being a rap fan for most of his life, Marshall began rapping at the early age of 4. Rhyming words together, battling schoolmates in the lunchroom brought joy to what was otherwise a painful existence. At the age of 14, he began to get very serious about his rapping but it wasn't until he was 17 that he actually made a name for himself, becoming M&M, which he would later respell as "Eminem". Being rejected by most fellow rappers because of his race, Marshall grew an anger that flows through his music to this day. After failing the 9th grade for three times in a row, he quit school, but has remarked that he does not consider himself stupid and does not advise that people should follow his example. He says that it just wasn't for him. Forcing himself on radio shows, freestyle battles, Marshall threw himself head first into the rap game, where he was swallowed up most of the time. His very first album was titled "Infinite" and, while the album sold less than a thousand copies, it was the gearing up stages for the rapper who became a millionaire. It was then that his daughter, Hailie Jade Scott, was born on December 25th of 1995 with long time girlfriend Kim Scott. Having nothing to lose at all, flat broke and not knowing where he would be living the next week, Marshall set out to rant about life in general, the set quickly caught the ear of hip-hop's difficult-to-please underground. What came out of this was the Slim Shady EP, the early work for the later Dr. Dre revised Slim Shady LP. Down to nearly his last dime, he went into the 1997 Rap Olympics in Los Angeles, basically hoping to win the $1,500 cash prize which he badly needed. After battling for an hour and throwing back every race diss thrown at him, Marshall made it to second place losing in a slip up. Furious that he had lost, Marshall didn't even notice that he had been spotted. In the crowd were a few producers from Interscope, and they were handed a copy of the "Infinite" tape by way of a demo. Dr. Dre got to hear it and eventually tracked him down. The two instantly hit it off, recording four songs in their first six hours of working - three which made it to his first LP. After the album was finished, Dr. Dre asked Marshall to come work with him on his new album. He helped produce several tracks and was on the best songs of the album. Now officially making it, Marshall and Dre set to make his second LP. The album became the Marshall Mathers LP and won 3 Grammies and was the first rap album ever to be nominated "Album of the Year", selling more than 8 million records in the United States alone. He also stunned critics when he shot down all homophobic remarks by performing "Stan" with Elton John . Eminem made a movie, 8 Mile (2002) . Though 2001 was a rough year for the rapper, being charged with weapon offenses, divorcing his wife, and almost going to prison, Marshall has explained his life in one word: "Claimer". - IMDb Mini Biography By: Anonymous and Rod Reece
  • Eminem is an American rapper, songwriter, record producer, record executive and actor. He is one of the most successful artists of the 21st century. In addition to his solo career, Eminem was a member of the hip hop group D12. He is known for collaborations with Detroit-based rapper Royce da 5'9"; the two are collectively known as Bad Meets Evil. Eminem starred in the drama film 8 Mile (2002) playing a fictionalized version of himself, which won the Academy Award for Best Original Song for "Lose Yourself", making him the first hip hop artist to ever win the award. He has made cameo appearances in the films The Wash (2001), Funny People (2009), and The Interview (2014), and the television series Entourage (2010). Eminem is among the best-selling music artists of all time. The Marshall Mathers LP, The Eminem Show, "Lose Yourself", "Love the Way You Lie" and "Not Afraid" have all been certified Diamond by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). Eminem has won numerous awards, including 15 Grammy Awards, eight American Music Awards, 17 Billboard Music Awards, an Academy Award and a MTV Europe Music Global Icon Award. - IMDb Mini Biography By: Tango Papa
  • Spouses Kimberly Anne Scott (January 14, 2006 - December 19, 2006) (divorced) Kimberly Anne Scott (June 14, 1999 - October 5, 2001) (divorced, 1 child)
  • Children Alaina Scott Mathers Whitney Scott Mathers Hailie Jade Mathers
  • Parents Marshall Bruce Mathers Jr. Deborah R. Nelson
  • Relatives Nathan Kane Samara (Half Sibling) Sarah Mathers (Half Sibling) Michael Mathers (Half Sibling) Michigan Colo (Cousin)
  • Dark brown hair and bright blue eyes
  • Dying his hair blonde
  • Dark and twisted lyrics
  • Often mentions his mother, ex-wife Kim Scott and his daughters in his songs
  • Known for bending words in his rhymes to be more creative
  • Adopted his ex-wife's, Kimberly Anne Scott , other daughter with another man. Her name is Whitney (b. April 16, 2002).
  • In his interview with Anderson Cooper on 60 Minutes (1968) , he admitted he does not allow the same amount of profanity he uses in his songs in his house.
  • Has custody of his niece Alaina Marie Scott , Lainie for short. Lainie and his daughter Hailie Jade Mathers have been brought up together and are considered sisters and he refers to both as his daughters. Lainie was mentioned in the song Mockingbird on the "Encore" album.
  • Adopted niece, Alaina Marie Scott , giving her his last name.
  • Has said that he would like his daughter, Hailie Jade Mathers , to become an actress.
  • I don't want them once they turn 18 - On Britney Spears & Christina Aguilera .
  • At this point, I'm like "Come up with something new. I hate the same old questions. But it seems like "white" magazines such as Spin and Rolling Stone focus on my "whiteness" more than Black magazines" --On his colour
  • Why is it so hard for people to believe that white people are poor?! I wouldn't say I lived in a ghetto, I'd say I lived in the 'hood. The same friends I had back then are the same people on tour with me now
  • There's a difference between realness and an act, and they're an act, and they know they're an act, and they even say they're an act, they even say they're cornballs, they admit it. --On Insane Clown Posse
  • My family has never been there for me. They expect things because we're blood. --On his family
  • 8 Mile (2002) - $3,000,000

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Eminem has made history in hip-hop and in all of popular music. Called the best-selling hip-hop artist of all time, he is also one of the most popular rappers. With a fierce lyrical flow and a fearless songwriting sensibility driven by an audacious sense of humor and a bold intellect, his music has generated plenty of controversy.

Eminem was born Marshall Bruce Mathers III on October 17, 1972 in St. Joseph, Missouri, and was raised by his mother, Debbie Nelson Mathers, who settled the family in Warren, just outside Detroit when he was 11. Eminem began rapping when he was 14 in an early duo with a high school friend, then established himself in Detroit's battle rap scene at clubs such as the Hip Hop Shop. After rapping with more groups, including the New Jacks and Soul Intent, with whom Eminem released his first single in 1995, he was taken under wing by the late Deshaun "Proof" Holton and became part of the collective known as D12.

Eminem's first album, the positive-minded  Infinite , came out in 1996, but it was his follow-up  The Slim Shady EP , along with a second-place finish at the Rap Olympics in Los Angeles that caught the attention of West Coast rap mastermind Dr. Dre, who signed Eminem to a major label deal.

The Slim Shady LP  in 1999 was an immediate success, winning the first of his 15 Grammy Awards and courting protests for lyrics that were seen as excessively violent and profane, anti-female, anti-gay and anti-religious. Eminem fed on the furor caused by his subsequent recordings, gradually adding pointed political commentary to the mix.

Eminem's greatest triumph came in 2002, when he won rave reviews for his starring role in the film  8 Mile , which was loosely based on his life. "Lose Yourself," which he wrote for the movie, won an Academy Award for Best Original Song, the first for hip-hop. Prior to that success, albums  The Marshall Mathers LP  and  The Eminem Show  were nominated for Grammys, among his 44 nominations to date.

Following a pause in his career to rid himself of an addiction to pain killers, Eminem has continued to produce albums and tour. He established his own company, Shady Records, featuring other rap acts such as D12, 50 Cent and Detroit's Obie Trice. The company expanded into a clothing line, Shady Ltd. in 2003 which has since folded. In 2016 Eminem started another clothing line, E13 with local company  Carhartt .

Eminem was married and divorced twice (1999-2001 and January 2006-April 2006) from high school girlfriend Kimberly Scott, with whom he had a child Hailie Jade Scott Mathers in 1996. He adopted Hailie’s cousin, Alaina Marie, daughter of his wife’s twin sister, and Whitney Scott, daughter of ex-wife Kim from a previous marriage.

Eminem has published two books, including an autobiography,  The Way I Am , and appeared in movies and television. His Marshall Mathers Foundation helps disadvantaged youth.  Rolling Stone  listed him in their 100 Greatest Artists of All Time.

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Eminem: The Journey of a Rap Icon

Eminem, born Marshall Bruce Mathers III on October 17, 1972, in St. Joseph, Missouri, is a globally renowned rapper, songwriter, and record producer. Rising from humble beginnings in Detroit, Michigan, Eminem emerged as one of the most influential and controversial figures in hip-hop history. With his unparalleled lyrical prowess, intricate rhyme schemes, and raw storytelling, he has captivated audiences worldwide, earning numerous accolades, including 15 Grammy Awards. Eminem’s impact extends beyond music; his fearless exploration of personal struggles, societal issues, and the human condition has made him a cultural icon and a voice for the disenfranchised, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest artists of our time.

Early Life and Struggles

Eminem, born Marshall Bruce Mathers III on October 17, 1972, faced an upbringing marked by hardship and adversity, which would later become a central theme in his music and persona as an artist. Growing up in Detroit, Michigan, a city known for its vibrant music scene as well as its socio-economic challenges, Eminem’s early life was characterized by instability and struggle. The absence of his father, who left the family when Eminem was just an infant, and the difficulties posed by his mother’s struggles with substance abuse and mental health issues, created a tumultuous home environment. These personal challenges were compounded by the poverty and racial tensions of his neighborhood, shaping Eminem’s worldview and artistic expression.

Despite—or perhaps because of—these adversities, Eminem found a powerful outlet in hip-hop, a genre that itself emerged from the struggles of urban life. Hip-hop offered Eminem a platform to articulate his experiences, frustrations, and aspirations. The young Marshall Mathers was drawn to the raw honesty and expressive power of rap, seeing in it a means to voice his own story and connect with others facing similar challenges.

Eminem’s entry into the world of hip-hop was marked by his participation in local freestyle battles and open-mic sessions, environments that were often competitive and unforgiving. These early experiences in Detroit’s hip-hop scene were instrumental in honing his skills as a rapper and performer. Eminem quickly became known for his sharp wit, rapid-fire delivery, and ability to craft complex rhymes, standing out even in a culture and genre that was predominantly African American. His persistence in the face of skepticism and outright hostility not only tested his resolve but also deepened his commitment to his craft.

The struggle to be taken seriously as a white rapper in a genre that was deeply rooted in the African American experience was a significant hurdle for Eminem. However, his undeniable talent and unique voice eventually broke through the barriers of race and expectation. Eminem’s early life and the obstacles he overcame played a crucial role in shaping his music, imbuing it with authenticity, emotional depth, and a rebellious spirit that resonated with a wide audience. His journey from a troubled youth in Detroit to one of the most influential figures in hip-hop is a testament to his resilience, creativity, and the transformative power of music as a means of expression and escape.

Rise to Fame

Eminem’s ascent to global fame is a story of talent, controversy, and the relentless pursuit of artistic expression. The release of “The Slim Shady LP” in 1999 marked a turning point in Eminem’s career, transforming him from an underground rapper struggling for recognition into one of the most provocative and compelling voices in contemporary music. Produced by Dr. Dre, a legend in the hip-hop industry, the album offered a perfect platform for Eminem’s vivid storytelling, dark humor, and intricate rhymes, introducing the world to his alter ego, Slim Shady—a persona that allowed Eminem to delve into the darker, more violent aspects of his psyche and society at large.

“The Slim Shady LP” struck a chord with audiences and critics alike, thanks to its candid exploration of topics like poverty, family dysfunction, and the American dream turned nightmare. Eminem’s ability to blend razor-sharp wit with deeply personal narratives won him a devoted following and considerable commercial success, earning the album a Grammy Award for Best Rap Album.

The momentum from “The Slim Shady LP” carried Eminem to even greater heights with the release of “The Marshall Mathers LP” in 2000. This album, which includes some of his most iconic tracks such as “Stan” and “The Real Slim Shady,” pushed boundaries further, exploring the impact of fame on his personal life and the darker corners of American culture. It became one of the fastest-selling albums in music history and solidified Eminem’s status as a critical and commercial powerhouse.

Eminem’s follow-up, “The Eminem Show” in 2002, continued to build on his legacy, offering introspection on fame, personal growth, and political commentary, showcasing his evolution as an artist and individual. The album’s success further established Eminem as not just a rap superstar but a significant figure in the music industry, capable of crossing genres and appealing to a broad audience.

Throughout his rise to fame, Eminem faced criticism for the controversial themes in his music, including accusations of misogyny, homophobia, and glorification of violence. Despite these challenges, or perhaps because of them, Eminem’s work resonated with listeners who found in his music a raw articulation of anger, disillusionment, and defiance that few other artists were willing to express.

Eminem’s early career and subsequent rise to fame are characterized by his willingness to confront his own demons and society’s ills head-on, using his skill as a lyricist and storyteller to craft compelling narratives that captivated millions. His journey from the streets of Detroit to the pinnacle of the music world is a testament to his extraordinary talent, resilience, and the transformative power of art to address, provoke, and reflect upon the human condition.

Noteworthy Achievements

Eminem, born Marshall Bruce Mathers III, stands as a towering figure in the landscape of contemporary music, renowned for his groundbreaking contributions to the hip-hop genre and beyond. His illustrious career is adorned with a plethora of noteworthy achievements that have solidified his status as one of the most influential artists of his generation.

At the forefront of Eminem’s achievements lie his unparalleled success in the realm of awards and accolades. With an impressive array of Grammy Awards, MTV Video Music Awards, and Billboard Music Awards to his name, Eminem has continually been recognized for his artistic excellence and innovation. Notably, in 2003, he etched his name in history by becoming the first rapper ever to win an Academy Award for Best Original Song for “Lose Yourself,” an anthemic track featured in the critically acclaimed film “8 Mile,” in which Eminem also delivered a gripping performance as the lead character, Jimmy “B-Rabbit” Smith Jr.

Eminem’s influence extends far beyond the confines of the music industry, as evidenced by his ventures into the realm of acting. With roles in films such as “8 Mile” and “The Interview,” Eminem has showcased his versatility and charisma on the silver screen, earning praise from audiences and critics alike for his compelling performances. These forays into acting have further solidified Eminem’s status as a multifaceted artist capable of transcending artistic boundaries.

In addition to his achievements in music and acting, Eminem has also made significant contributions to the hip-hop community through the establishment of his record label, Shady Records. Founded in 1999, Shady Records has served as a platform for emerging artists in the hip-hop genre, providing them with the opportunity to showcase their talents and pursue their artistic aspirations under Eminem’s guidance and mentorship. Through Shady Records, Eminem has played a pivotal role in nurturing the next generation of hip-hop talent, further cementing his legacy as a trailblazer and visionary within the music industry.

Eminem’s noteworthy achievements span the realms of music, acting, and entrepreneurship, underscoring his remarkable impact and enduring influence on popular culture. From his groundbreaking musical accomplishments to his compelling performances on the big screen and his instrumental role in shaping the future of hip-hop through Shady Records, Eminem’s contributions have left an indelible mark on the fabric of contemporary music and entertainment, ensuring his legacy will continue to resonate for generations to come.

Challenges and Adversity

Eminem’s meteoric rise to fame has been accompanied by a myriad of challenges and controversies that have tested his resolve and resilience. From the outset of his career, Eminem’s provocative lyrics and audacious public persona have courted controversy and criticism from a wide array of quarters, including politicians, parents, and advocacy organizations. His unapologetic embrace of controversial topics and willingness to push societal boundaries have often sparked heated debates and condemnation, with some detractors labeling his music as offensive or harmful.

Moreover, Eminem’s personal struggles with addiction and mental health have been well-documented, adding another layer of complexity to his tumultuous journey. Throughout his career, Eminem has grappled with substance abuse issues, including an addiction to prescription medications, which have had a profound impact on his personal life and artistic endeavors. His battles with addiction have been publicly scrutinized and scrutinized, leading to periods of personal turmoil and creative stagnation.

Despite the myriad challenges and setbacks he has faced, Eminem has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to confronting his demons and overcoming adversity. Through his music, he has candidly addressed his struggles with addiction and mental health, using his platform to shed light on these often taboo topics and advocate for greater understanding and compassion. Eminem’s willingness to lay bare his vulnerabilities and confront his inner demons has earned him admiration and respect from fans and peers alike, cementing his reputation as a fearless and introspective artist.

In addition to his personal struggles, Eminem has also faced professional challenges and setbacks throughout his career. Despite achieving unprecedented commercial success and critical acclaim, he has weathered periods of creative drought and artistic criticism, with some critics questioning the relevance and authenticity of his later work. Nevertheless, Eminem has remained undeterred in his pursuit of musical excellence, continuously pushing himself to evolve as an artist and refine his craft.

Eminem’s journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of self-expression. Despite facing numerous challenges and adversities, he has emerged stronger and more determined than ever, using his music as a vehicle for personal catharsis and social commentary. Eminem’s willingness to confront controversy, confront his inner demons, and confront adversity head-on has solidified his status as one of the most influential and enduring artists of his generation.

Major Turning Points

Eminem’s career is punctuated by several major turning points that have shaped his trajectory and solidified his status as a cultural icon. These pivotal moments mark significant milestones in his personal and professional journey, defining the evolution of his artistry and leaving an indelible mark on the music industry.

One of the earliest turning points in Eminem’s career came with the release of his major-label debut album, “The Slim Shady LP,” in 1999. This album introduced the world to Eminem’s alter ego, Slim Shady, and showcased his unparalleled lyrical prowess and provocative storytelling. With hits like “My Name Is” and “Guilty Conscience,” the album propelled Eminem to mainstream success, earning critical acclaim and establishing him as one of the most formidable talents in hip-hop.

Another pivotal moment in Eminem’s career came with the release of his third studio album, “The Marshall Mathers LP,” in 2000. Widely regarded as one of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time, “The Marshall Mathers LP” shattered records and earned Eminem widespread acclaim. The album’s raw honesty and unapologetic lyricism struck a chord with audiences worldwide, catapulting Eminem to superstardom and solidifying his reputation as a fearless and introspective artist.

In 2002, Eminem further solidified his status as a cultural icon with his portrayal of Jimmy “B-Rabbit” Smith Jr. in the critically acclaimed film “8 Mile.” The semi-autobiographical film, which drew inspiration from Eminem’s own life experiences, earned rave reviews for its authenticity and emotional depth. Eminem’s compelling performance in the lead role garnered praise from critics and audiences alike, earning him an Academy Award for Best Original Song for his iconic track “Lose Yourself.”

Additionally, Eminem’s career has been marked by moments of personal and professional growth, as he has continued to push artistic boundaries and challenge societal norms. With each album release, Eminem has demonstrated a willingness to evolve as an artist, experimenting with new sounds and lyrical styles while remaining true to his core identity. From his early days as a controversial provocateur to his later years as a respected elder statesman of hip-hop, Eminem’s journey has been defined by a relentless pursuit of excellence and a refusal to be confined by expectations.

In summary, Eminem’s career is defined by a series of major turning points that have shaped his trajectory and solidified his legacy as one of the most influential artists of his generation. From his breakout success with “The Slim Shady LP” to his Oscar-winning performance in “8 Mile,” Eminem has continually pushed the boundaries of hip-hop and left an indelible mark on the music industry. As he continues to evolve as an artist and cultural icon, Eminem’s impact on popular culture will undoubtedly endure for generations to come.

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Unbridled controversy. Unparalleled talent. Unmatched superstardom. As the single best-selling artist of the 2000s, a 15-time Grammy winner, and the first artist to have ten consecutive Number One debut albums on the Billboard 200, Eminem’s accolades speak for themselves. His world-renowned status solidified hip-hop as the most commercially successful music on the planet.

eminem childhood biography

HALL OF FAME ESSAY

By RJ Smith

Look: If you had one shot or one opportunity to seize everything you ever wanted in one moment, would you capture it or just let it slip? That’s the question Eminem asked in his 2002 ground-rumbling “Lose Yourself.” It’s also the question lurking throughout his twenty-five-plus years in hip-hop. How do you treat every time like the one time? Nothing can be taken for granted. There’s always somebody ready to take your place. Eminem wants to be loved, but the opposite is okay, because either way you will remember his name. He’s on the prowl and ready to fight for your attention – for a gold record, for a chance to continue. And continue he does.

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Eminem: The Iconic Detroit Rapper Who Changed Hip Hop Forever

  • by history tools
  • November 19, 2023

Eminem Overview

Eminem is an acclaimed rapper who popularized hip hop in middle America. With his raw, confessional lyrics exploring themes like poverty, addiction, and family turmoil, Eminem resonated with millions of fans worldwide. Though controversial for his offensive content, Eminem played a key role in expanding hip hop‘s audience and inspired many modern rappers.

Early Life in Detroit

Marshall Mathers III was born in 1972 in St. Joseph, Missouri to Debbie Briggs and Marshall Mathers Jr. His father abandoned them when Eminem was still an infant, forcing his mother to raise him on her own. Debbie struggled financially and moved frequently between Missouri and Detroit to find work. When Eminem was 12, they settled in Detroit‘s Eastside, living in a predominantly black, lower-class neighborhood.

As a scrawny white kid, Eminem experienced bullying and developed an interest in storytelling to escape reality. He voraciously read comic books and became engrossed in hip hop, admiring rappers like Dr. Dre, the Beastie Boys, and N.W.A. Eminem started rapping himself around age 14, gaining acceptance from black youths in his neighborhood. Though he attended Lincoln High School in suburban Warren for a while, Eminem dropped out at 17 to pursue his passion for hip hop. He took on various minimum wage jobs to get by, including cooking and dishwashing.

The Struggling Rapper

In the early 1990s, Eminem dove headfirst into Detroit‘s underground hip hop scene, competing in rap battles and open mic events. As he describes in his track "Brain Damage," Eminem endured bullying and sustained head injuries in youth, which likely contributed to his short temper. His determination to succeed in hip hop grew as he gained traction performing at clubs.

Eminem independently released his first album Infinite in 1996. Though it was largely ignored commercially, the album displayed his advanced lyricism and storytelling skills. Eminem reflects candidly on Infinite about struggles with poverty, family, and raising his newborn daughter Hailie Jade (born 1995). This raw, emotional approach would come to define his music.

Mentorship with Dr. Dre

Eminem‘s talent caught the attention of Aftermath Entertainment founder and legendary rapper Dr. Dre. Dre was blown away after hearing Eminem freestyle on a Los Angeles radio show in 1997. He quickly signed Eminem to his label, providing mentorship for launching his mainstream success.

With Dr. Dre‘s guidance, Eminem adopted his provocative alter ego Slim Shady and released The Slim Shady LP in 1999. The album became a commercial smash, earning Eminem his first Grammy for Best Rap Album. His fame grew even more with The Marshall Mathers LP (2000), which spotlighted his technical rapping skills and knack for storytelling. Eminem also starred as a fictionalized version of himself in the 2002 semi-autobiographical film 8 Mile , further boosting his popularity.

Grammys and Accolades

Eminem is one of the most acclaimed rappers in Grammy history, winning a total of 15 awards including:

  • 7 awards for Best Rap Album
  • Best Rap Solo Performance for "My Name Is" and "Lose Yourself"
  • Best Rap Song for "Lose Yourself" and "Not Afraid"
  • Best Rap/Sung Collaboration for "Numb/Encore" with Jay-Z

Beyond Grammys, Eminem also won an Oscar for Best Original Song for "Lose Yourself." He was the first hip hop artist ever awarded this honor.

Eminem has frequently appeared on lists of the greatest artists. Rolling Stone ranked him #83 on their list of 100 Greatest Artists of All Time. MTV‘s list of Greatest MCs of All Time ranked Eminem at #1 based on fan votes.

Lyrical Themes and Legacy

Eminem is unmatched in his rapping ability. His breakneck rhyme schemes, humorous punchlines, and masterful storytelling set him apart. Eminem mixes his rhythmic vocal lines with a signature aggressive delivery and unique cadence. His evocative lyrics provide raw glimpses into his emotions and past.

Many songs revolve around Eminem‘s struggles growing up in Detroit, including "Cleaning Out My Closet" and "Mockingbird." He raps candidly about family dysfunction, poverty, and dealing drugs. Eminem also explores the dark side of fame in songs like "The Way I Am." His most controversial tracks involve violence against women.

While infamously crass at times, Eminem‘s honest take on life opened new doors for rappers to express themselves freely. He brought hip hop into the mainstream and has directly inspired younger rappers like Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, and Tyler the Creator. There‘s no doubt Eminem changed hip hop forever with his skill and vulnerability.

Battling Drug Addiction

During the peak of his fame in the early 2000s, Eminem developed an addiction to prescription pills and sleeping meds. His dependency worsened while filming 8 Mile as he worked long hours and relied on substances to wind down. By the mid-2000s, Eminem was consuming high quantities of Vicodin, Valium, Ambien and methadone.

Eminem‘s addiction took a heavy toll on his life and health. He canceled tours to check into rehab and nearly died from an overdose in December 2007. But with his family‘s support, Eminem got clean on April 20, 2008 and maintains his sobriety today. Many songs on his albums Relapse (2009) and Recovery (2010) process his struggles with addiction and rehabilitation.

Staying Relevant in Hip Hop

Even in his late 40s, Eminem continues releasing chart-topping albums that engage with current events. His music increasingly contemplates mortality, legacy, and being a father.

The Marshall Mathers LP 2 (2013) revisited his roots in Detroit with raw tracks like "Bad Guy." Surprise album Kamikaze (2018) slammed newer rappers who cite him as an influence. His 2020 album Music to Be Murdered By sparked controversy for the track "Darkness," which addresses gun violence through the perspective of the Route 91 Harvest festival shooter.

Beyond music, Eminem opened a Detroit restaurant called Mom‘s Spaghetti in 2017, referencing lyrics from his hit "Lose Yourself." He stays connected to the local community that shaped him.

Private Life in Detroit

Eminem is an extremely private person, preferring to keep details about his personal life out of the spotlight. His on-again/off-again relationship with ex-wife Kim Scott was turbulent and emotionally abusive at times, as depicted in songs like "‘97 Bonnie and Clyde." They married in 1999, divorced in 2001, remarried in 2006, then divorced again that same year.

Aside from biological daughter Hailie Jade, Eminem also adopted two other daughters – Alaina Marie and Whitney Scott. He has legal custody of all three girls and remains protective of them. Eminem frequently expresses love for his daughters in songs like "Hailie‘s Song" and "Mockingbird."

Beyond family, Eminem enjoys weightlifting, running, reading, and watching sports in his downtime. Despite fame beyond his wildest dreams, Eminem has stayed loyal to his roots in the Detroit hip hop scene that launched his career. His rags-to-riches story serves as an inspiration for aspiring artists everywhere.

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Hip Hop Scriptures

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Eminem Digital Biography

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Famous rapper Eminem was born Marshall Bruce Mathers III on October 17, 1972 in Saint Joseph, Missouri, USA. He is the son of a fifteen-year-old mother at the time of his birth and a father who left six months later and never returned. Spending most of his childhood moving back and forth between Saint Joseph and suburban Detroit, Michigan, he finally settled on the Eastside of Detroit when he was 12. 

Formerly studying at Lincoln High School in Warren from 1986 to 1989, Marshall often switched schools every two or three months. It made him difficult to make friends and stay out of trouble. Failing at the 9th grade three times until finally dropping out, he said he wasn't stupid. He said he was not interested in school because all he wanted to do was rap. 

Marshall began rapping at the early age of 4 and started pursuing career seriously at the age of 14. That was the time when he began performing rap in the basement of his high school friend's home. At 17, he eventually made a name for himself, Eminem, which was taken from his initials M(arshall) M(athers).

The local Hip-Hop community, used to black rappers, at 1st refused the white Eminem. But in the end, he found the easiest way to win in the underground hip-hop society was by becoming a battle rapper - performing in several clubs and forcing himself on radio shows. 

He wasn't immediately accepted by public, but as time went by he proved himself as a qualified rapper. He began getting some offers to join several other rappers to start a group, Em joined the New Jacks and then moved to Soul Intent and produced his first recorded single with them in 1995. It was a rapper named Proof who then asked Eminem to start a new group because he enjoyed working with him. With their 4 other friends, Proof and Eminem were both in one group named D12, each of whom ended up focusing more on their solo careers rather than their collaboration, leading to a career break. 

It was the birth of Em's first child, Hailie Jade Scott on December 25, 1995 with longtime girlfriend Kim Scott, that encouraged him to work harder for the money his family needed. It was difficult for him who had nothing except the "life sucks" experiences he used as the topic of his rap lyrics. One year later, in 1996, Eminem recorded his first album "Infinite", only to receive few favorable reviews. 

Learning from his previous failure, he soon introduced Slim Shady, an alter ego that wasn't afraid to say whatever he felt. Working on the song with all his heart and strength, Em poured his heart out and reflected his feelings toward his mother who was accused of physically and mentally abusing his younger brother. 

In 1997, Kimberly Ann Scott left him and forbade him to see their child. The frustration sent Eminem to a frequent rate of drug abuse and alcohol that surely affected his composition. Once committing suicide, he finally realized the best and only way to escape from his unhappy life was his musical ambition. Such depression led him to release the brutal "The Slim Shady EP", which he actually filled with some of the composition he had written long time before. Due to his distinctly-exaggerated, nasal-voiced rapping style and his skin color, many people named him music's next "great white hope." 

He finally signed a contract with Interscope and was taken under Dr. Dre 's wing, allowing him to record a full-length CD. Both then started to record "My Name Is" before Dre finally agreeing to produce Em's first album, with "Just Don't Give A F*ck" single as the album preview. A reconciliation with Kimberly Ann Scott led them to a marriage held in the fall of 1998. 

In early 1999, he released "The Slim Shady LP" that spawned hits "My Name Is" and "Guilty Conscience". Over the next years the album went triple platinum, leaving the pros and cons over the album's lyrics far behind. His success continued with "The Marshall Mathers LP" released in the summer of 2000. It sold 1.76 million copies in its first week of release in the U.S., a record for a solo artist, successfully won 3 Grammys and became the first rap album ever to be nominated Abum of the Year. 

As the fame and popularity came, many more controversies arose due to some riots Eminem had caused, including a scuffle with the Insane Clown Posse's employees in a car stereo shop; a battle with pop singer Christina Aguilera; a lawsuit from his mother; and a brawl with Detroit club goers. 

Those accusations inspired him to produce two other songs, entitled "Kill You" and "Kim." In the latter song, he rapped about violently murdering his own wife that in reality drew her to a suicide attempt before they finally got divorced. Kim was at first granted physical custody of their daughter, financial support, a personal driver, and reinstatement of her credit cards, but Eminem later got the joint custody of daughter, Hailie Jade. 

In 2001, he met his Detroit old friends and re-formed D-12 who all together in that summer released an album and hit the road. This was followed by an acting debut in "8 Mile", a film loosely based on his life directed by Curtis Hanson. He won the 2003 Academy Award for the soundtrack titled "Lose Yourself". Then came "The Eminem Show" album, which despite its popular second single "Cleanin' My Closet" that revolved around his dysfunctional childhood and his hatred towards his mother, provoked many critics. Regardless, it was a huge success commercially. 

Another well-received album "Encore", which reunited him with his old buddies in D12, soon followed in 2004. It was nominated for three Grammys and made digital history back then for becoming the first album to sell 10,000 digital copies in one week. Apparently to return the favor, he later hit recording booth with pals for a "D12 World" album in 2005. 

While he was at the peak of his career, Em was rumored going to retire from music industry. But he denied it, "When I say I'm taking a break, I'm taking a break from my music to go in the studio and produce my other artists. Despite his self-defense, the rapper apparently got caught in worse situation as he once was sent under treatment to overcome his dependency on sleep medication. This obviously provoked public worldwide to have a worsening perception on both his personal and musical career. 

Indeed, Em kept working on his music career. A greatest hits compilation "Curtain Call: The Hits" was released on December 6, 2005. Just like its predecessors, the new set scored great success, bowing atop of the Billboard album charts. Things also turned better in his love life as he revealed that he's back together with ex-wife, Kimberly. "We have reconciled and are probably going to remarry," he said back then. They finally remarried, but it only lasted less than three months. Kim cited Em's dependency to the sleep-medication as the reason behind their latest breakup. 

But Em denied it as saying, "Her allegations regarding my status post-rehab are both untrue and unfortunate.... she was aware that I was filing for divorce. We both tried to give our marriage another chance and quickly realized that a wedding doesn't fix the underlying problems." 

After "Encore", he took a break from recording. He said he was "in limbo" and "debating" about when and if he would release another album. He said, "I'm always working I'm always in the studio. It feels good right now, the energy of the label. For a while, I didn't want to go back to the studio ... I went through some personal things. I'm coming out of those personal things [and] it feels good." 

In May 2009, his fans rejoiced as a comeback album "Relapse" was rolled out that year. Featuring hits like "Crack a Bottle", "We Made You" and "Beautiful", it topped Hot 200, marking the umpteenth time he sat at the top spot of the U.S. album chart. As one of the most-awaited album of the year, the record became the best-selling rap CD by the end of December. 

New music kept coming from the rapper as he dropped another album "Recovery" in the following year. Not only did it produce smash hit singles like "Not Afraid" and "Love the Way You Lie" but it also became his ticket to collect more Grammy Awards. He even scored his best-selling single to date with 10.25 million sold worldwide for the Rihanna-assisted track. 

Despite being one of the best-selling rapper in the world, Em never forgot his roots. Besides his reunion with D12, he also got back together with another of his Bad Meets Evil homie, Royce 5'9'' for "Hell: The Sequel" album. The CD was released a year after his "Recovery". 

Fans' demand for new music after two years of absence was answered by Eminem in 2013. He announced "The Marshall Mathers LP 2" with "Berzerk" as a lead single. Although it was only previewed with one single, the album was already lauded by critics. It was named one of the most anticipated albums of 2013 by multiple music magazines.

(source: aceshowbiz.com ) 

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eminem childhood biography

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EMINEM-BIOGRAPHY

  • Biographies

Eminem Biography

Eminem biography: the unforgettable journey of a rap icon.

EMINEM-BIOGRAPHY

Eminem, one of the most influential figures in the music industry, has left an indelible mark on the world of rap. With a stage name derived from his initials, Marshall Mathers, he has captivated audiences with his raw talent and unfiltered lyrics. From his humble beginnings in Detroit to his rise as a global icon, Eminem’s journey as a rapper is nothing short of extraordinary. With his unique blend of storytelling, wit, and emotional depth, he has pushed boundaries and challenged societal norms. Eminem’s impact extends far beyond his music, as he has become a symbol of resilience and self-expression. Join us as we delve into the life and artistry of Eminem, unraveling the layers of his influential career and exploring the reasons behind his enduring popularity.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Eminem’s journey into the world of rap began in the gritty streets of Detroit, where he faced numerous challenges and hardships. Growing up in a working-class neighborhood, he found solace in music, using it as an outlet for self-expression. From a young age, Eminem was drawn to the power of words and rhymes, honing his skills through freestyle battles and underground performances.

But it wasn’t an easy road to success. Eminem faced numerous rejections and setbacks, struggling to break into the rap scene. Yet, his sheer determination and unwavering belief in his talent propelled him forward. It was during these formative years that he created his alter ego, Slim Shady, a darker and more controversial version of himself. With Slim Shady, Eminem fearlessly delved into provocative and confrontational themes, pushing the boundaries of lyrical expression.

Eminem’s breakthrough came with his debut major-label album, “The Slim Shady LP,” which catapulted him into the spotlight. His rapid-fire delivery, impeccable wordplay, and raw emotions resonated with audiences, earning him critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. Through his music, Eminem fearlessly tackled personal struggles, social issues, and inner demons, captivating listeners with his vulnerability and authenticity.

His unique style, characterized by intricate rhymes, relentless flows, and sharp storytelling, set him apart from his peers. Eminem’s ability to effortlessly switch between humor, anger, and introspection showcased his versatility and command over the art of rap. With each subsequent album, he pushed his artistic boundaries, experimenting with different sounds and themes while staying true to his roots.

The emergence of Eminem and Slim Shady marked a new era in rap music, challenging conventions and sparking conversations. His bold and controversial lyrics often courted controversy, addressing topics like violence, drugs, and personal demons. Yet, through it all, Eminem’s authenticity and unfiltered honesty resonated with fans who found solace and inspiration in his music.

As his fame grew, so did his influence on the rap landscape. Eminem’s impact reached far beyond music, shaping the cultural zeitgeist and inspiring a new generation of artists. His unparalleled success, marked by numerous Grammy Awards and chart-topping albums, solidified his position as one of the best-selling music artists of all time.

But Eminem’s journey wasn’t just about personal achievements. He became a symbol of resilience, inspiring individuals to embrace their uniqueness and overcome adversity. His unapologetic approach to self-expression empowered countless fans to find their voice and navigate the challenges of life.

Intriguing, complex, and always evolving, Eminem has cemented his place as a rap god. His influence on the genre is undeniable, and his impact continues to reverberate through the music industry and popular culture. Join us as we unravel the layers of Eminem’s career, delving into the genius behind the words and the indomitable spirit that drives him.

Rise to Stardom and Controversies

Eminem’s rise to stardom was ignited by the release of his breakthrough album, “The Slim Shady LP.” This groundbreaking record showcased his exceptional storytelling abilities, razor-sharp wit, and unfiltered lyricism. With tracks like “My Name Is” and “Guilty Conscience,” Eminem captured the attention of listeners worldwide, leaving an indelible mark on the music industry.

However, it was his controversial lyrics that often landed him in the eye of the storm. Eminem fearlessly delved into sensitive and provocative subjects, addressing issues like violence, drug abuse, and personal struggles. His words were raw, unapologetic, and at times, polarizing. Critics condemned his explicit language and explicit content, questioning the morality of his art. Yet, others hailed him as a fearless poet, an artist unafraid to expose the dark underbelly of society.

As a white rapper in a predominantly black genre, Eminem faced both criticism and praise. Some questioned his authenticity and accused him of cultural appropriation, while others recognized his immense talent and contribution to the rap scene. Eminem, however, let his skills speak for themselves, proving that talent knows no boundaries or stereotypes. His undeniable lyrical prowess and ability to captivate audiences transcended race, earning him respect from peers and fans alike.

Controversies continued to swirl around Eminem throughout his career. His public feuds with other artists, explicit diss tracks, and provocative stage performances kept him in the headlines. Yet, beneath the controversy, Eminem remained an enigmatic figure, unafraid to challenge societal norms and confront his demons. His ability to provoke intense reactions, both positive and negative, solidified his status as a cultural lightning rod.

Despite the controversies, Eminem’s influence on the rap genre and popular culture cannot be denied. He shattered barriers, challenging the notion of what a rapper should be and pushing the boundaries of artistic expression. Eminem’s impact went beyond music; he became a cultural icon, representing a generation’s angst, struggles, and triumphs.

Through his artistry, Eminem has consistently sparked conversations, forcing society to confront uncomfortable truths and examine their contradictions. He defied expectations, blurring the lines between reality and his alter ego, Slim Shady. It is this complex interplay between the artist and the persona that continues to fascinate and intrigue audiences.

Evolution of Eminem’s Music and Career

Eminem’s music and career have evolved with each album, showcasing his growth as an artist and his ability to push artistic boundaries. Albums like “The Marshall Mathers LP” and “The Eminem Show” marked significant milestones in his discography, solidifying his status as one of the greatest rappers of all time.

“The Marshall Mathers LP” delved deeper into Eminem’s struggles, addressing themes of fame, addiction, and the consequences of his success. Tracks like “Stan” and “The Way I Am” showcased his unparalleled storytelling abilities, drawing listeners into a world of raw emotion and vulnerability. The album’s dark and introspective tone resonated with fans, propelling it to critical and commercial success.

“The Eminem Show” further cemented Eminem’s reputation as a lyrical genius. With tracks like “Without Me” and “Cleaning Out My Closet,” he fearlessly explored his own life experiences, delving into his complex relationships and inner demons. The album displayed his versatility as an artist, seamlessly blending introspective tracks with more playful and satirical songs.

Eminem’s music is characterized by his unrivaled lyrical prowess. His intricate rhyme schemes, rapid-fire delivery, and ability to create vivid imagery have set him apart from his peers. Whether he’s delving into personal struggles, social issues, or the complexities of fame, Eminem’s songs resonate with authenticity and emotional depth.

What sets Eminem apart is his fearlessness in tackling diverse topics. From introspective tracks that lay bare his insecurities to sharp critiques of society and politics, he fearlessly addresses controversial subjects with biting wit and intelligence. His ability to infuse his songs with emotion, whether it be anger, sadness, or defiance, has earned him a devoted fan base and critical acclaim.

As Eminem’s career has progressed, he has continued to evolve as an artist. His albums reflect his growth, both musically and personally. From the intense and raw energy of his early work to the more reflective and mature themes in his later albums, Eminem has consistently pushed the boundaries of what rap can be.

Personal Struggles and Comeback

Eminem’s struggles have been well-documented, as he has openly grappled with addiction, mental health issues, and the pressures of fame. These battles became increasingly evident in his music, serving as a cathartic outlet for his pain and emotions.

During a period of self-reflection and recovery, Eminem took a hiatus from the music industry. This break allowed him to confront his demons and embark on a journey of healing and self-discovery. The albums “Relapse” and “Recovery” marked his triumphant comeback, showcasing his resilience and determination to overcome his challenges.

“Relapse” delved into the depths of his addiction and the struggles he faced during that period. With raw and introspective tracks like “Not Afraid” and “Love the Way You Lie,” Eminem laid bare his vulnerabilities and shared his journey toward recovery. The album not only resonated with fans who connected with his honesty, but it also marked a turning point in his career.

“Recovery” further solidified Eminem’s comeback, cementing his status as one of the greatest artists of his generation. The album was a testament to his strength and resilience, as he tackled themes of self-reflection, growth, and redemption. Tracks like “Not Afraid” and “No Love” showcased his ability to connect with fans on a deeply personal level, offering hope and inspiration through his music.

Eminem’s ability to confront his struggles head-on and share his journey through his lyrics has endeared him to millions of fans worldwide. His honesty and vulnerability have resonated with listeners who relate to his experiences and find solace in his words. Through his music, Eminem has become a beacon of hope for those facing their battles, proving that it’s possible to overcome adversity and emerge stronger on the other side.

influence and Legacy

Eminem’s influence on the rap genre is undeniable, as he has left an indelible mark on the music industry and paved the way for countless artists. His raw and unfiltered storytelling, combined with his exceptional wordplay and lyrical dexterity, set him apart as a true innovator in hip-hop.

With multiple Grammy Awards to his name and impressive discography, Eminem’s talent and artistry have been recognized and celebrated by both critics and fans. His albums have achieved immense commercial success, making him one of the best-selling music artists of all time.

Beyond his musical accomplishments, Eminem’s legacy is that of a complex figure who defied conventions and shattered stereotypes. He fearlessly addressed controversial topics and pushed the boundaries of artistic expression. His impact extends far beyond the music, as he has inspired a generation of artists to embrace their individuality and speak their truth.

Eminem’s influence will continue to resonate in the rap genre and beyond. His powerful storytelling, technical prowess, and candid approach have cemented his status as an icon. As we reflect on his journey and legacy, we recognize his unparalleled contribution to music and lasting imprint on the cultural landscape.

Eminem net worth

Eminem, the renowned rapper and music icon, has amassed a staggering net worth of $250 million as of May 2023. Through his exceptional talent, hard work, and immense popularity, he has not only made a profound impact on the music industry but has also reaped significant financial success.

Eminem’s net worth is a testament to his enduring influence and commercial accomplishments. From his chart-topping albums to sold-out world tours, he has consistently dominated the music charts and amassed a dedicated global fanbase. Alongside his music career, he has also ventured into business endeavors and collaborations, further contributing to his impressive wealth.

As an artist who has continuously pushed boundaries and captivated audiences with his lyrical prowess, Eminem’s net worth reflects both his immense talent and his ability to connect with millions of listeners worldwide. His entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering dedication to his craft have solidified his status as one of the most influential and financially successful figures in the music industry.

Eminem’s journey in the music industry is nothing short of remarkable. From his humble beginnings in Detroit to becoming a global rap sensation, he has left an indelible mark on the music world. Through his raw and honest lyrics, he has challenged societal norms and pushed boundaries, making him a true icon of artistic expression.

Eminem’s enduring influence extends far beyond his chart-topping hits and multiple Grammy Awards. He has become a symbol of resilience, using his struggles as fuel for his music and inspiring countless fans worldwide. His ability to craft intricate and emotionally charged songs has solidified his status as one of the greatest rappers of all time.

As Eminem continues to evolve and grow as an artist, his contributions to the rap genre and the wider music industry remain significant. His authenticity, lyrical genius, and unwavering dedication have paved the way for future generations of artists to explore their creative boundaries. Eminem’s impact is undeniable, and his legacy will continue to resonate for years to come.

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Eminem FAQs

What is eminem's most famous song.

Eminem's most famous song is "Lose Yourself". The song was released in 2002 and was the lead single from the soundtrack to the movie 8 Mile. The song won an Academy Award for Best Original Song in 2003.

What is Eminem's biggest accomplishment?

Eminem's biggest accomplishment is winning 15 Grammy Awards. He is the most awarded rapper in Grammy history.

What is Eminem's most controversial song?

Eminem's most controversial song is "The Real Slim Shady". The song was released in 1999 and was the lead single from his second album, The Marshall Mathers LP. The song was criticized for its violent and misogynistic lyrics.

When was Eminem born?

Eminem was born on October 17, 1972.

How many records has Eminem sold?

Eminem has sold over 220 million records worldwide.

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Eminem Biography: Age, Music Career, and Personal Life

eminem childhood biography

Marshall Bruce Mathers III, known professionally as Eminem, is an American rapper, songwriter, and record producer. Born on October 17, 1972, in St. Joseph, Missouri, Eminem spent his childhood between Missouri and Michigan, eventually settling in Detroit in his teens. He began rapping at the age of 14 with a high school friend, adopting the names “Manix” and “M&M,” which later evolved into Eminem.

Table of Contents

Eminem’s music career began in 1996 with the release of his independent debut album, Infinite. However, it wasn’t until the release of his major-label debut album, The Slim Shady LP, in 1999 that Eminem gained mainstream popularity. The album earned him his first Grammy Award for Best Rap Album, and his hit single “My Name Is” won Best Rap Solo Performance. Eminem’s subsequent albums, including The Marshall Mathers LP, The Eminem Show, and Encore, were all commercial successes and cemented his place as one of the best-selling musicians of the 21st century.

Early Life of Eminem

Marshall Bruce Mathers III, popularly known as Eminem, was born on October 17, 1972, in St. Joseph, Missouri, to a teenage mother, Deborah Mathers, and a father, Marshall Bruce Mathers Jr. His father left the family when Eminem was still a baby, and he was raised by his mother in various states, including Missouri, Michigan, and Kansas.

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Growing up, Eminem had a difficult childhood. He faced poverty, bullying, and abuse from his mother’s boyfriends. He found solace in rap music and started performing at a young age. He was heavily influenced by hip-hop artists such as LL Cool J, Run-DMC, and the Beastie Boys.

At the age of 14, Eminem started rapping with a high school friend, and they formed a duo called Manix. They performed at local clubs and contests, and Eminem adopted the stage name M&M, which later evolved into Eminem.

Eminem attended several high schools, but he dropped out at the age of 17 due to poor grades and lack of interest in academic studies. He worked odd jobs to support himself and his girlfriend, Kimberly Anne Scott, whom he had met in high school. They had a tumultuous relationship and got married twice, but eventually divorced.

In 1996, Eminem released his debut album, Infinite, which received mixed reviews and failed to gain commercial success. He then formed a group called D12 and released an album called Devil’s Night in 2001. However, it was his solo album, The Slim Shady LP, released in 1999, that catapulted him to fame and established him as one of the most controversial and successful rappers of his time.

Rise to Stardom

Eminem’s rise to stardom is nothing short of incredible. Born Marshall Bruce Mathers III on October 17, 1972, in St. Joseph, Missouri, he grew up in a predominantly African American, working-class neighborhood in Detroit, Michigan.

Eminem’s passion for rap music began at a young age, and he started performing in local clubs and contests as a teenager. Despite facing numerous obstacles and setbacks, he continued to pursue his dream of becoming a successful rapper.

In 1996, Eminem released his independent debut album, “Infinite,” which received little attention and failed to make a significant impact. However, he continued to hone his skills and refine his style, eventually catching the attention of Dr. Dre, one of the most respected and influential producers in the music industry.

With Dr. Dre’s guidance and support, Eminem released his major-label debut album, “The Slim Shady LP,” in 1999. The album was an instant commercial and critical success, selling millions of copies and earning Eminem his first Grammy Award for Best Rap Album.

Over the next few years, Eminem continued to dominate the rap scene with a string of hit albums, including “The Marshall Mathers LP” and “The Eminem Show.” He also became known for his controversial and often provocative lyrics, which touched on topics such as drug addiction, domestic violence, and social inequality.

Despite facing criticism and backlash from some quarters, Eminem’s popularity and influence continued to grow. He became one of the best-selling artists of the early 21st century, with millions of fans around the world.

In conclusion, Eminem’s rise to stardom is a testament to his talent, hard work, and perseverance. Despite facing numerous challenges and obstacles, he never gave up on his dream of becoming a successful rapper, and his dedication and passion have earned him a place among the most iconic and influential musicians of his generation.

Music Career

Initial success.

Eminem’s music career began in the late 1990s with the release of his debut album, “Infinite,” which received little commercial success. However, his second album, “The Slim Shady LP,” released in 1999, was a major success, earning him his first Grammy Award for Best Rap Album. The album’s lead single, “My Name Is,” became a hit and helped establish Eminem as a rising star in the music industry.

Mainstream Breakthrough

Eminem’s third album, “The Marshall Mathers LP,” released in 2000, was a commercial and critical success, selling over 1.76 million copies in its first week and becoming the fastest-selling rap album in history. The album’s lead single, “The Real Slim Shady,” became Eminem’s first top 10 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and won him his second Grammy Award for Best Rap Solo Performance.

Continued Success and Evolution

Eminem continued to release successful albums throughout the 2000s, including “The Eminem Show” (2002), “Encore” (2004), and “Relapse” (2009). He also collaborated with other artists, such as Dr. Dre and 50 Cent, and formed the group D12.

In the 2010s, Eminem’s music evolved, incorporating more personal and introspective themes. His album “Recovery” (2010) was a critical and commercial success, featuring hit singles such as “Not Afraid” and “Love the Way You Lie.” He continued to release successful albums, including “The Marshall Mathers LP 2” (2013) and “Kamikaze” (2018).

Throughout his career, Eminem has been recognized as one of the greatest rappers of all time, selling over 150 million records worldwide and winning numerous awards, including 15 Grammy Awards.

Personal Life

Eminem was born Marshall Bruce Mathers III in St. Joseph, Missouri, on October 17, 1972. His mother, Deborah R. Nelson, was only 15 years old when she gave birth to him, and his father, Marshall Bruce Mathers Jr., left the family when Eminem was still a baby. Eminem had a difficult childhood, as his mother struggled with substance abuse and often moved the family to different cities. He has two younger half-siblings, Michael and Sarah.

Eminem has been married twice. He married his high school sweetheart, Kimberly Anne Scott, in 1999, but they divorced in 2001. They remarried in 2006 but divorced again the following year. They have a daughter together, Hailie Jade, who was born in 1995. Eminem also adopted his ex-wife’s niece, Alaina, and has custody of his younger half-brother, Nathan.

Controversies

Eminem has been involved in several controversies throughout his career. His lyrics have been criticized for being violent, misogynistic, and homophobic. He has been accused of promoting drug use and glorifying violence. In 2000, he was sued by his mother for defamation and emotional distress over lyrics in his song “My Name Is.” The lawsuit was dismissed in 2001.

In 2003, Eminem was arrested for carrying a concealed weapon and assault. He pleaded guilty and was sentenced to two years’ probation. In 2018, he faced backlash for using a homophobic slur in his song “Fall.”

Philanthropy

Despite his controversial lyrics, Eminem has also been involved in several philanthropic endeavors. In 2002, he founded the Marshall Mathers Foundation, which provides funds for organizations working with at-risk youth and disadvantaged communities. He has also supported various charities, including the Kids in Need Foundation, the V Foundation for Cancer Research, and the Eight Mile Boulevard Association, which works to revitalize Detroit neighborhoods.

In 2019, Eminem donated $10,000 to the Michigan chapter of the Muscular Dystrophy Association in honor of his friend and fellow rapper, Obie Trice’s son, who has the disease. He has also donated to COVID-19 relief efforts and Black Lives Matter causes.

Awards and Achievements

Eminem has received numerous awards throughout his career, including 15 Grammy Awards, eight American Music Awards, 17 Billboard Music Awards, an Academy Award, a Primetime Emmy Award, and an MTV Europe Music Global Icon Award.

In 2002, Eminem won the Academy Award for Best Original Song for “Lose Yourself,” which was featured in the film “8 Mile.” The song also won two Grammy Awards for Best Rap Song and Best Male Rap Solo Performance.

Eminem’s album “The Marshall Mathers LP” won the Grammy Award for Best Rap Album in 2001, while “The Eminem Show” won the same award in 2003. His album “Recovery” won the Grammy Award for Best Rap Album in 2011.

In 2022, Eminem was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, recognizing his contributions to the music industry.

Eminem’s achievements also include holding the record for the most consecutive #1 albums on the Billboard 200 chart by a solo artist, with 10 albums debuting at #1. He is also the best-selling hip-hop artist of all time, with over 220 million records sold worldwide.

Overall, Eminem’s awards and achievements reflect his impact on the music industry and his continued success as a rapper and artist.

Legacy and Influence

Eminem’s impact on the music industry is undeniable. He has sold over 150 million records worldwide, making him one of the best-selling artists of all time. His unique style of rapping, which often includes controversial and personal lyrics, has influenced countless artists in the hip-hop genre.

One of Eminem’s biggest contributions to the music industry is his ability to bring attention to important social issues. He has used his platform to speak out against racism, poverty, drug addiction, and other societal problems. His songs have sparked important conversations and shed light on issues that may have otherwise been ignored.

Eminem’s influence extends beyond just the music industry. He has also had a significant impact on popular culture. His signature look, which includes bleached hair and oversized clothing, has become iconic. He has been referenced in countless movies, TV shows, and other forms of media.

In addition to his impact on the music and entertainment industries, Eminem has also been recognized for his philanthropic efforts. He has donated millions of dollars to various charities and organizations, including the Marshall Mathers Foundation, which provides assistance to at-risk youth in Detroit.

Overall, Eminem’s legacy is one of innovation, controversy, and social consciousness. He has left an indelible mark on the music industry and popular culture, and his influence will continue to be felt for generations to come.

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A Look Inside Eminem's Totally Dysfunctional Childhood

As a child, the now mega-wealthy Eminem wrote lots of letters to his father, but they were ignored.

Eminem is angry (or seems angry) most of the time. Why? Well, to begin with, his childhood was utterly, totally dysfunctional. Marshall Bruce Mathers III, a.k.a. Eminem was born to Bruce and Debbie Mathers in 1972. Eminem was dragged around the Midwest, as his parents' band, Daddy Warbucks played at various Ramada Inns. It was "a scraping the bottom of the barrel" kind of life.

The feckless and irresponsible Bruce deserted Debbie and sometime actor and rapper Eminem  when the boy was an infant. As a child, the now mega-wealthy Eminem wrote lots of letters to his father. They were ignored. Debbie had a second son Nathan by another man.

Debbie drifted around the country, barely surviving, with her two sons in tow. It was a childhood filled with abuse, bullying and poverty.

And the scars of his childhood have carried forward to his adult life. It too, on a personal level, has been messed up and dysfunctional. But it has also fueled his songwriting ethos, giving him plenty of bad news to write about and work through.

Let's look at super-successful Eminem 's dysfunctional childhood and how it has affected the man.

Heading Nowhere Fast

Bruce and Debbie Mathers were musicians who mooched around the U.S. in a band called Daddy Warbucks. They were drifters, barely eking out a living playing at Ramada Inns. It is not surprising that Bruce, faced with fatherhood and all that implied, deserted Debbie and their infant son, Marshall Bruce Mathers III. The boy who grew up to become the rich and famous white rapper we know as Eminem repeatedly tried to communicate with his father. His letters came back marked, almost certainly by his father's hand, "Return to Sender".

RELATED: 10 Facts About Eminem's Friendship With His Manager, Paul Rosenberg

Later, after Eminem was rich and famous, Bruce tried to contact him, saying he wasn't interested in money, he only wanted to communicate with his son. Sure.

After Bruce left, Debbie had another son Nathan with another man. He, like Bruce, disappeared out of her life. She was left to travel from one place to the next, headed nowhere fast. When she could, she sponged off family. But her life, and the lives of her sons, were often nomadic, moving back and forth between Missouri and Michigan. Poverty and neglect were visited on her sons. And, even worse, Debbie was physically abusive, especially to her older son, the confused little boy who was to become Eminem.

At one point, Debbie abandoned Eminem, leaving him with his Great-Aunt Edna and his Uncle Charles. They did the best they could. Back with Debbie, Eminem's younger brother Nathan had more to do with parenting his half-brother than his mother did.

RELATED: 18 Throwback Pics Of Eminem That Are Too Good To Ignore

Bullied At School, Failing 9th Grade, Dropping Out

If and when Eminem  made it to school, he was often bullied . His biggest nightmare was a boy named D'Angelo Bailey. At one point, Bailey's physical abuse led to the future super-star being in a coma for days. Eminem's 1999 song "Brain Damage" pins the bully badge firmly on Bailey. While admitting the bullying, Bailey still had the nerve to sue the rapper for $10 million. The judge was firmly on Eminem's side, throwing the case out and summing up her reasons in the form of rap lyrics!

Eminem has been outspoken about his childhood and the abuse he suffered at the hands of his drug-addicted mother. She had the nerve to sue the rapper for defamation in 1999. She got a result, all of $25,000. Most of it went to her lawyer. She netted around $1,600 .

It will surprise no one that Eminem was a washout at school, reportedly failing the 9th grade three times  before dropping out of school altogether when he was 17-years-old. He admitted to  Rolling Stone  that the only thing he was good at was English. That stood him in good stead when he started writing rap lyrics. As a kid, he was a natural-born storyteller. And when he discovered hip hop, it was a marriage made in heaven.

Discovering Hip Hop

His life changed for the better when his Uncle Ronnie Polkinghorn gave him a copy of Ice-T's single "Reckless". By the age of 14, he was performing at amateur raps using the pseudonym of "M&M". His uncle Ronnie later committed suicide, leading to the Eminem tattoo "Ronnie R.I.P.". While his mom does not fare well in Eminem's song "Cleanin' Out My Closet", Uncle Ronnie gets a favorable nod. Like most singer/songwriters, Slim Shadey, a.k.a. Eminem, draws on his past experiences, good and bad, as fodder for his music and lyrics.

RELATED:  Eminem's First-Ever 10 Songs, In Chronological Order

And his upbringing haunted his adult life, with a dysfunctional relationship with his baby mama and sometimes wife, Kim Scott. Like his mother, he developed an addiction to drugs. In 2007 he was hospitalized because of a methadone overdose. With the help of counseling and the mentorship of Sir Elton John, Eminem has been clean and sober since 2008.

But he is still angry, after all these years. And rightly so.

NEXT: 12 Best Eminem Music Videos, Ranked

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12 Messed Up Facts About Eminem's Troubled Upbringing

Brandon Michaels

Marshall Mathers, known by stage names such as Eminem and Slim Shady, has an admittedly troubled past. His father abandoned his family, his mother was reportedly addicted to drugs and alcohol, and he endured considerable abuse in his early life. All these hardships fired the furnace that resulted in the best Eminem songs and albums. 

Most of Eminem's early life was spent in a trailer park, where he rapped by himself or with his uncle Ronnie. Etched in loving memory as one of  Eminem's tattoos , Uncle Ronnie was an influential figure in Mathers's life, providing one of the only stable relationships in the rapper's childhood. Ronnie committed suicide in 1991, delivering a devastating blow to the young Eminem. 

Marshall Mathers's life only became more complicated as he grew older. He started dating his on-again-off-again wife Kim in high school. They've been married and divorced twice, with multiple children (one biological and two adopted).

Glimpses of Eminem's childhood can be seen through his lyrics, interviews, and 8 Mile , the full-length feature film based on his early life. Read on to discover the darkest parts of Eminem's origins. 

Eminem's Father Abandoned Him When He Was A Baby

Eminem's Father Abandoned Him When He Was A Baby

If you've ever heard an Eminem track, chances are good that you know he has a tumultuous relationship with his father, Marshall Mathers II. On multiple occasions, Slim Shady has talked about how his dad abandoned him and his mother, Debbie Mathers, when he was just an infant .

What you may not know is that Shady's father eventually had a change of heart and  wanted to reunite with his son. In a 2001 interview with The Mirror , Mathers the elder said, "I'm not interested in his money. I just want to talk to him. I want him to know that I'm here for him if he lets me back into my life."

Shady reportedly refuses to meet his father, and based on the following lyrics to "My Name Is," it seems doubtful he ever will:

When you see my dad Tell him that I slit his throat In this dream I had

Eminem Was Frequently Bullied

Eminem Was Frequently Bullied

Em moved frequently throughout his childhood, resulting in having to constantly start over when it came to making friends and fitting in. Shady was frequently a target for bullying and violence during his youth. In his song " Brain Damage ,"  he calls out former bully DeAngelo Bailey:

I was harassed daily by this fat kid named D'Angelo Bailey An eighth grader who acted obnoxious, 'cause his father boxes So everyday he'd shove me in the lockers One day he came in the bathroom while I was pissin' And had me in the position to beat me into submission

In 1999, Bailey reportedly admitted to the bullying in an  interview with Rolling Stone , but he later sued Eminem for defamation of character. The judge, however, threw his case out - using a rap , no less.

Em's Worst Bullying Incident Led To A Coma

Em's Worst Bullying Incident Led To A Coma

In 1982, Mathers reportedly had a run-in with DeAngelo Bailey, who said he and other boys " flipped [Mathers] right on his head ." When Mathers stopped moving, they ran off and made up an excuse. Some reports indicate he was in a coma for four days  after one such incident.

As a result of the bullying, Debbie Mathers reportedly attempted to sue her son's school, but the lawsuit was dismissed.

Eminem's Mentally-Ill Mother Abused Him Frequently

Eminem's Mentally-Ill Mother Abused Him Frequently

Eminem has made claims that he basically raised his younger half-brother , Nathan Mathers. This alone may sound like a very large responsibility to place upon a very young man, but Eminem also hinted in the song "Cleanin' Out My Closet" that his mother may have  Munchausen syndrome by proxy , a disorder that causes people to intentionally cause illness in others. This was reinforced by a social worker in 1996 when Nathan was removed from her custody. Eminem later became his legal guardian. 

It should be noted that in her memoir,  My Son Marshall, My Son Eminem , Debbie Mathers tells a different story , and Eminem seemed to apologize to her  in a 2014 video.

Eminem's Mother Left Him When He Was Little, But Came Back To Raise Him

Eminem's Mother Left Him When He Was Little, But Came Back To Raise Him

Even though Debbie Mathers accused her husband of abandoning their son, she herself reportedly  often left Marshall in the care of his Great-Aunt Edna and Uncle Charles. They let him do chores and took him to school; Mathers later said, "They were my solidity."

Eminem's Mother Made Money By Concocting Lawsuits

Eminem's Mother Made Money By Concocting Lawsuits

Eminem's lyrics suggest  that his mother never held a job for long, and she reportedly may have instead made money by concocting lawsuits. For example, she allegedly once sued her son's school .

In 1999, Debbie Mathers went so far as to sue her son on counts of defamation, requesting that the rapper pay her $10 million for claiming that she was a drug addict. The courts ultimately sided with Mathers , and in her 2008 memoir,  My Son Marshall, My Son Eminem,  she claimed that her lawyer filed the suit without her permission .

After Failing 9th Grade Three Times, Eminem Dropped Out Of High School

After Failing 9th Grade Three Times, Eminem Dropped Out Of High School

The real Slim Shady failed the 9th grade  three times . Mathers claims his mother pushed him to get a job at the age of 15, but his mother argues that Em was well provided for. Regardless, Eminem dropped out of high school at the age of 17.

Despite not having completed high school, Mathers has always loved English. He once told Rolling Stone , "I suck at math. I’m terrible at social studies. But I’ve always been good at English, and I always had a lot of words in my vocabulary." 

Em's Mom Almost Died In Childbirth

Em's Mom Almost Died In Childbirth

Perhaps unsurprisingly, Eminem was a hard baby to birth. At the age of 15, Debbie Mathers spent 73 hours  in labor before successfully birthing her first child; however, she almost died from the event, which she described as a "living Hell." She claimed the doctor smoked cigars while helping her through the process.

A Close Relative Committed Suicide When Eminem Was Young

A Close Relative Committed Suicide When Eminem Was Young

Growing up, Eminem was best friends with his uncle Ronnie Polkingham. The two were reportedly born only months apart and became very close. Ronnie is credited with introducing Mathers to the world of hip-hop and break dancing, and the two spent many teenage nights writing and recording raps. However, in 1991, Ronnie took his own life .

Em mentions Ronnie in multiple tracks, including "My Dad's Gone Crazy," "Cleanin' Out My Closet," and "Stan."

Despite His Tortured Youth, Em's First Arrest Came At Age 20

Despite His Tortured Youth, Em's First Arrest Came At Age 20

Despite his troubled childhood, Mathers managed to stay out of legal trouble for the entirety of his childhood. His first arrest came at the age of 20 when the rapper was picked up by police after shooting a squad car with a paintball gun. 

Luckily for Mathers, the accuser didn't show up to the trial, so the case was ultimately dropped. This event is recreated in the 2002 film  8 Mile , though the fictional Mathers's actions do not lead to an arrest in the movie. 

Eminem Married And Divorced Kimberly Ann Scott Twice

Eminem Married And Divorced Kimberly Ann Scott Twice

Marshall met Kimberly Ann Scott when he was just 15 years old . The couple had Hailie in December 1995, but the pressures of launching a music career while raising a family put a strain on the relationship, causing a string of breakups that didn't stick. Out of their tumultuous relationship came something that would forever change the rap game.

An angry and heartbroken Eminem became inspired to create his alter ego, Slim Shady, and released The Slim Shady LP , which launched him into the public eye. On the album, Shady includes a fictional skit in which he is speaking to his daughter while he throws Kim's recently murdered corpse into a lake. Pretty grim, but the two married (and divorced) twice since then, and are reported to be on good terms now.

Eminem Was Shaped By The Dangerous Neighborhoods He Grew Up In

Eminem Was Shaped By The Dangerous Neighborhoods He Grew Up In

On the track  Never Enough , Mathers talks about how he's grateful for the life he's had — including the neighborhoods he grew up in — because it helped shape who he is today. Moving constantly between housing projects in Detroit and Missouri, he never had a chance to find his place and make friends.

With stories like these, it's not hard to figure out what led a struggling child to develop the angry and aggressive persona known as Slim Shady. 

Lists about Marshall "Eminem" Mathers and his world-changing music.

Eminem's Most Savage Feuds

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COMMENTS

  1. Eminem

    Eminem never knew his father, Marshall Mathers Jr., who abandoned the family when Eminem was still an infant and rebuffed all of his son's many attempts to contact him during his childhood. As a ...

  2. Eminem Biography

    Childhood & Early Life Eminem was born Marshall Bruce Mathers III in St. Joseph, Missouri, to Marshall Bruce Mathers, Jr and his wife Deborah Rae "Debbie" Nelson, on October 17, 1972. Marshall's parents were members of 'Daddy Warbucks,' a band that used to perform at a hotel named 'Ramada Inns.'

  3. Eminem

    Eminem (born October 17, 1972, St. Joseph, Missouri, U.S.) American rapper, record producer, and actor who was known as one of the most-controversial and best-selling artists of the early 21st century.. Mathers had a turbulent childhood, marked by poverty and allegations of abuse. At age 14 he began rapping in clubs in Detroit, Michigan, and, when unexcused absences kept him in the ninth grade ...

  4. Eminem

    Early life. Marshall Bruce Mathers III was born on October 17, 1972, in St. Joseph, Missouri, the only child of Marshall Bruce Mathers Jr. and Deborah Rae "Debbie" (née Nelson). He is of Scottish, Welsh, English, Cherokee, German, Swiss, Polish, and possibly Luxembourgish ancestry. His mother nearly died during her 73-hour labor with him. Eminem's parents were in a band called Daddy Warbucks ...

  5. The Transformation Of Eminem From Childhood To 49

    In 1995, Eminem's life was forever changed by a major life event. His then-girlfriend Kim Scott gave birth to his first child, a daughter named Hailie Scott Mathers, on Christmas Day ...

  6. Eminem

    Eminem. Actor: 8 Mile. Eminem was born Marshall Bruce Mathers III in St. Joseph, Missouri, to Deborah R. (Nelson) and Marshall Bruce Mathers, Jr., who were in a band together, Daddy Warbucks. He is of English, as well as some German, Scottish, and Swiss-German, ancestry. Marshall spent his early childhood being shoved back and forth from Kansas City and Detroit. He settled on the Eastside of ...

  7. Mathers, Marshall "Eminem"

    Eminem was born Marshall Bruce Mathers III on October 17, 1972 in St. Joseph, Missouri, and was raised by his mother, Debbie Nelson Mathers, who settled the family in Warren, just outside Detroit when he was 11. Eminem began rapping when he was 14 in an early duo with a high school friend, then established himself in Detroit's battle rap scene ...

  8. Eminem Biography

    Eminem, born Marshall Bruce Mathers III, 17 October 1973, Kansas City, Missouri, USA. This white rapper burst onto the US charts in 1999 with a controversial take on the horrorcore genre. Mathers endured an itinerant childhood, living with his mother in various states before eventually ending up in Detroit at….

  9. Eminem

    Eminem - Biography . Eminem is one of the best-selling artists in music history, easily the biggest crossover success ever seen in rap. ... Eminem spent his childhood between Missouri and Michigan, settling in Detroit by his teens. At the age of 14, he began rapping with a high school friend, the two adopting the names "Manix" and "M&M," which ...

  10. Eminem

    A rags-to-riches story, Eminem (b. Marshall Mathers) rapped his way out of a childhood marked by abuse and instability via MC battles in Detroit's Hip-Hop Shop, to Los Angeles' 1997 Rap Olympics, and straight onto Dr. Dre's Aftermath Entertainment label. There, Eminem's major label debut, The Slim Shady LP, catapulted him into the ...

  11. Eminem: The Journey of a Rap Icon

    Eminem's early life and the obstacles he overcame played a crucial role in shaping his music, imbuing it with authenticity, emotional depth, and a rebellious spirit that resonated with a wide audience. His journey from a troubled youth in Detroit to one of the most influential figures in hip-hop is a testament to his resilience, creativity ...

  12. Rap Was Eminem's Roots and Road Out of Poverty

    Eminem had a vagabond childhood, bouncing between his birthplace of St. Joseph, Mo., and Detroit. His mother, Debbie Mathers, estimated that before he dropped out of ninth grade, Eminem attended ...

  13. The Story of Eminem

    Please subscribe 🙌🏻The story of Eminem, from his childhood onwards.Subscribe for more.

  14. Eminem

    Eminem. (born 1972). American rapper, record producer, and actor Eminem was known as one of the most controversial and best-selling artists of the early 21st century. A white performer who had won acceptance in an art form dominated by African Americans, Eminem was revered by some critics but reviled by others.

  15. Eminem

    Unparalleled talent. Unmatched superstardom. As the single best-selling artist of the 2000s, a 15-time Grammy winner, and the first artist to have ten consecutive Number One debut albums on the Billboard 200, Eminem's accolades speak for themselves. His world-renowned status solidified hip-hop as the most commercially successful music on the ...

  16. Eminem: The Iconic Detroit Rapper Who Changed Hip Hop Forever

    Private Life in Detroit. Eminem is an extremely private person, preferring to keep details about his personal life out of the spotlight. His on-again/off-again relationship with ex-wife Kim Scott was turbulent and emotionally abusive at times, as depicted in songs like "'97 Bonnie and Clyde." They married in 1999, divorced in 2001, remarried ...

  17. Eminem

    Early life [edit]. Mathers was born on October 17, 1972, in St. Joseph, Missouri, the only child of Marshall Bruce Mathers Jr. and Deborah Rae "Debbie" (née Nelson). [9] [10] He is of Scottish, Welsh, English, Cherokee, German, Swiss, Polish, and possibly Luxemburgish ancestry.[11] [12] [13] His mother nearly died during her 73-hour labor with him. [14]Eminem's parents were in a band called ...

  18. Eminem Biography

    Eminem Digital Biography. Famous rapper Eminem was born Marshall Bruce Mathers III on October 17, 1972 in Saint Joseph, Missouri, USA. He is the son of a fifteen-year-old mother at the time of his birth and a father who left six months later and never returned. Spending most of his childhood moving back and forth between Saint Joseph and ...

  19. Eminem Biography: The Rise Of A Rap Icon

    Eminem, one of the most influential figures in the music industry, has left an indelible mark on the world of rap. With a stage name derived from his initials, Marshall Mathers, he has captivated audiences with his raw talent and unfiltered lyrics. From his humble beginnings in Detroit to his rise as a global icon, Eminem's journey as a ...

  20. Eminem Biography: Age, Music Career, and Personal Life

    Marshall Bruce Mathers III, known professionally as Eminem, is an American rapper, songwriter, and record producer. Born on October 17, 1972, in St. Joseph, Missouri, Eminem spent his childhood between Missouri and Michigan, eventually settling in Detroit in his teens. He began rapping at the age of 14 with a high school friend, adopting the ...

  21. A Look Inside Eminem's Totally Dysfunctional Childhood

    Well, to begin with, his childhood was utterly, totally dysfunctional. Marshall Bruce Mathers III, a.k.a. Eminem was born to Bruce and Debbie Mathers in 1972. Eminem was dragged around the Midwest, as his parents' band, Daddy Warbucks played at various Ramada Inns. It was "a scraping the bottom of the barrel" kind of life.

  22. 12 Messed Up Things About Eminem's Childhood and Early Years

    12 Messed Up Facts About Eminem's Troubled Upbringing. Marshall Mathers, known by stage names such as Eminem and Slim Shady, has an admittedly troubled past. His father abandoned his family, his mother was reportedly addicted to drugs and alcohol, and he endured considerable abuse in his early life. All these hardships fired the furnace that ...