He titled it “The Death of Slim Shady” perhaps because he anticipates his alter ego will face repercussions for the controversial content of his latest album.
Eminem is like marmite. You either love him or hate him. I am in the former category. I believe he has retained the same magic he had in his prime. He had a period of lull until 2010, when the fire in his belly reignited, and he stopped catering to mainstream pop.
His blend of dark lyrics and infectious choruses has always been his strength, especially on “Marshall Mathers LP 2,” which resembled its predecessor and the 2011 album he made with Bad Meets Evil.
Comparing to his previous record, “Music to be Murdered By”, one can’t help but notice Em’s shift in focus. He seems to be more determined to be the fastest rapper around, a departure from his previous style that many fans have come to love.
I may have mentioned in the earlier review that Slim Shady was making a comeback, but this album definitely solidifies that statement. This record embodies his alter ego from his early days, where he simply doesn’t give a fuck who he offends and goes after those who have pissed him off.
Who didn’t love Slim Shady? His alter ego was a breath of fresh air for rap and music in general at the time. Suddenly, we had an artist who was wicked, heartless, and offensive, yet with a hint of comedy. Everytime his words hit the microphone, he caused controversy.
Eminem knows that his early records would be considered controversial in today’s culture. With “The Death of Slim Shady”, it seems like he is attempting to address that by revisiting his past and reflecting on the most controversial aspects of Eminem and Slim Shady.
No one is off-limits on this record. Em takes shots at and mocks a variety of individuals and groups, including trans, disabled, and dwarfs, as well as politicians, fellow musicians, and the late Christopher Reeves. Eminem challenges Slim Shady, the alter ego, on why he targets these individuals and groups. He reminds Em that his controversial nature initially propelled him to success.
Eminem questions why he was so controversial, and now, as a man in his early fifties, he is also in turmoil over whether to remain that way or be a bit more sympathetic.
As the album reaches halfway , Eminem confronts Slim Shady and shoots and kills his evil alter ego. The question of whether it is all in jest remains, as he vows revenge for those he has annihilated on wax in the past. His lack of mercy for Machine Gun Kelly is evident, taking him out without hesitation. But beyond the personal drama, this album has a significant impact on the music industry. It’s a moment that will be remembered, a turning point in Eminem’s career. Therefore, I do not believe that his alter ego is six feet under.
My favorite is ‘Evil’. This is not for the faint-hearted. It showcases Slim Shady at his peak with controversial verses and impressive delivery.This is Slim Shady at his peak with his delivery and controversial verses.
In the song ‘Lucifer,’ Slim Shady is once again courting controversy by comparing himself to Satan. The song begins with Eminem realising that he needs to eliminate his alter ego because that aspect of his personality will not be suitable for his career in today’s world.
Guilty Conscience 2’ is where Em will kill Slim Shady because he has had enough of him and realises he is bad for his career. Slim Shady,a persona created by Eminem, goads him in the track, reminding him that through Slim, he had the power to say what was on his mind without thinking about the consequences. This relationship between Eminem and Slim Shady is complex, with Slim Shady representing Eminem’s darker, more controversial side. Angered by the constant goading, Em shoots and kills Slim. However, he then wakes up to realise it was just a dream. From here on out, the rest of the record was Em taking control and the end of Slim Shady. Returning to an earlier paragraph, is this the end of Slim Shady and a more caring side of Eminem? I do not think so. Expect Slim Shady to return on the next album.
I love that his personas haven’t spared snowflakes and Generation Z. We need some refreshing attitude to return to society. Of course, racism, fascism, and insulting people with disabilities are a bit far, but Eminem and Slim Shady have always been controversial. We need more controversial and outspoken artists in the current industry. If you didn’t like this record and were offended, then hahaha, too bad, Snowflake.
Song recommendations: ‘Evil’, ‘Lucifer’, ‘Guilty Conscience 2’
7/10
Honest Opinions 