History of Eminem in Timeline
Eminem, born Marshall Bruce Mathers III, is a highly acclaimed American rapper known for his significant contributions to hip hop music. His influence is widely recognized for popularizing the genre in Middle America and breaking racial barriers for white rappers in the music industry. Despite facing controversy for his provocative work, Eminem's music resonated with the frustrations of the American underclass, establishing him as a prominent voice of his generation. His impact extends beyond music, as he has inspired numerous artists across various genres.
October 17, 1972: Eminem's Birth
Marshall Bruce Mathers III, known as Eminem, was born on October 17, 1972.
1982: Lawsuit Against Eminem's School
Eminem's mother, Debbie, filed a lawsuit against his school in 1982 after he suffered a head injury from a bully, D'Angelo Bailey. The lawsuit was dismissed the following year.
1984: Pepsi Commercial Incident
In 1984, Michael Jackson's hair caught fire during the filming of a Pepsi commercial, becoming a widely known incident. This incident was later parodied in Eminem's 2004 music video for "Just Lose It", contributing to the controversy surrounding the video.
1987: Kim Scott Moves In
Kimberly Anne "Kim" Scott, who later became Eminem's on-and-off girlfriend, moved into their home in 1987.
1988: Eminem Forms First Group, New Jacks
Eminem, under the stage name MC Double M, formed his first rap group, New Jacks, and created a demo tape in 1988.
1989: Eminem Begins On-and-Off Relationship with Kimberly Anne Scott
Eminem's relationship with Kimberly Anne Scott began in 1989. They initially met in high school, where he impressed her by rapping LL Cool J's "I'm Bad" while standing on a table. Their relationship started after Scott and her twin sister ran away from home and moved in with Eminem and his mother when he was 15 years old.
1989: Joining Bassmint Productions
New Jacks joined Bassmint Productions in 1989, which later evolved into Soul Intent.
1991: Death of Eminem's Uncle Ronnie
Eminem's uncle, Ronnie Polkingharn, who was a musical mentor to him, committed suicide in 1991. This deeply affected Eminem.
1992: Formation of Soul Intent & First Music Video Appearance
Bassmint Productions became Soul Intent in 1992 with rapper Proof and other friends. Eminem made his first music video appearance in "Do-Da-Dippity" by Champtown in 1992.
1995: Soul Intent EP Release
Soul Intent released their self-titled EP in 1995, which featured Proof.
1996: Debut Album "Infinite" Released
Eminem released his debut album "Infinite" in 1996, which unfortunately didn't gain commercial success.
1996: Signing with F.B.T. Productions & "Infinite" Release
Eminem was signed by F.B.T. Productions and released "Infinite" under their Web Entertainment label in 1996. The album was a commercial failure.
1996: Formation of The Dirty Dozen (D12)
Eminem and Proof formed The Dirty Dozen (D12) in 1996 with four other rappers.
March 1997: Job Loss and Eminem's Suicide Attempt
Eminem was fired from his job at Gilbert's Lodge in March 1997. He faced personal difficulties, substance abuse, and a suicide attempt around this time.
1997: Release of "Slim Shady EP"
Eminem released the extended play "Slim Shady EP" in 1997.
1997: Beginning of Eminem's Feud with Insane Clown Posse
Eminem's feud with Insane Clown Posse began in 1997 due to a misunderstanding over a flyer promoting Eminem's EP release party, leading to public insults and diss tracks.
1997: Debut EP Release and Alter Ego Development
In 1997, Eminem developed his alter ego, Slim Shady, through which he expressed his anger. He also recorded and released his debut EP, the Slim Shady EP, exploring themes of poverty, family difficulties, and drug use.
1997: Rap Olympics and Discovery by Dr. Dre
In 1997, Eminem participated in the Rap Olympics, where he was discovered by an Interscope Records intern who shared his music with Dr. Dre. Impressed by Eminem's talent, Dr. Dre signed him to Aftermath Entertainment, despite criticism for hiring a white rapper.
1997: The Dirty Dozen's "The Underground E.P."
The Dirty Dozen (D12) released "The Underground E.P." in 1997.
March 1998: Featured in "Unsigned Hype" Column
In March 1998, Eminem was featured in the "Unsigned Hype" column of The Source hip hop magazine, marking a significant step in his rise to fame.
1998: Encounter with Necro
During his ongoing feud with rapper Cage in 1998, Eminem was given a beat by New York rapper Necro, who had previously produced for Cage. Although Eminem didn't use the beat, which later became "Black Helicopters" by Non-Phixion, Necro maintained a positive view of Eminem and eventually appeared on Shade45.
1998: Bad Meets Evil Formation
Eminem and Royce da 5'9" joined forces to form the rap duo Bad Meets Evil in 1998, marking the beginning of their collaborative musical journey.
1998: Eminem Appears in Korn's "Got the Life" Music Video
In 1998, Eminem made a brief appearance in the music video for Korn's song "Got the Life". During this encounter, Eminem reportedly gave the band a demo tape, showcasing his ambition and drive.
February 1999: The Slim Shady LP Release and Controversy
Eminem released The Slim Shady LP in February 1999, achieving commercial success but sparking controversy over its violent and explicit lyrics. The album also marked the beginning of his musical partnership with Dr. Dre.
1999: Shady Records Founded
In late 1999, Eminem established his own record label, Shady Records, as an avenue to release music by his group, D12. The label was a joint venture with his manager, Paul Rosenberg.
1999: Founding of Shady Records
In late 1999, fueled by his multi-platinum success, Eminem established his own label, Shady Records, in partnership with Paul Rosenberg.
1999: Eminem Marries Kimberly Anne Scott
Eminem married Kimberly Anne Scott in 1999, marking a significant milestone in their on-again, off-again relationship that began in their teenage years.
1999: Eminem Sued by his Mother
In 1999, Eminem's mother filed a lawsuit against him for slander, alleging he damaged her reputation through lyrics on his album "The Slim Shady LP."
1999: Recording of The Marshall Mathers LP
Eminem worked on his album The Marshall Mathers LP from 1999 to 2000, a period marked by his increasing fame and the pressures that came with it, themes that were explored in the album itself.
1999: Mainstream Success with "The Slim Shady LP"
Eminem achieved mainstream popularity in 1999 with the release of "The Slim Shady LP" under Dr. Dre's Aftermath Entertainment.
May 2000: The Marshall Mathers LP Release and Success
Eminem's The Marshall Mathers LP was released in May 2000, breaking sales records and generating significant attention for its provocative lyrics and controversial subject matter, particularly in singles like "The Real Slim Shady" and "Stan".
June 3, 2000: Eminem's Arrest in Royal Oak, Michigan
On June 3, 2000, Eminem was arrested in Royal Oak, Michigan, after an altercation at a car-audio store, where he drew an unloaded gun. This incident led to charges of possession of a concealed weapon and assault.
July 7, 2000: Kim Mathers' Suicide Attempt and Lawsuit
On July 7, 2000, Kim Mathers, Eminem's wife, attempted suicide. She later filed a lawsuit against him for defamation, claiming that his lyrics in the song "Kim" portrayed her violent death in a damaging way.
July 2000: First White Artist on The Source Cover
Eminem achieved a historic milestone in July 2000 by becoming the first white artist to be featured on the cover of The Source, a prominent hip hop magazine.
October 26, 2000: Eminem Faces Potential Ban from Canada
On October 26, 2000, controversy arose when Ontario Attorney General Jim Flaherty aimed to prevent Eminem from entering Canada for a scheduled performance at Toronto's SkyDome. Flaherty's objection was based on Eminem's lyrics, particularly in the song "Kill You," which he deemed as advocating violence against women. Despite public disapproval and concerns about freedom of speech, Eminem's concert proceeded as scheduled.
November 21, 2000: Eminem Publishes "Angry Blonde"
On November 21, 2000, Eminem released "Angry Blonde", a non-fiction book providing commentary on some of his songs and featuring previously unpublished photographs. This book offered insights into his creative process and personal thoughts behind his music.
2000: Eminem and Canibus Feud Begins
The feud between Eminem and Canibus started in 2000 after a series of diss tracks. Canibus released "Phuck U", which Eminem perceived as a diss, leading to Eminem responding with diss tracks on his subsequent albums.
2000: Tours and Collaborations
In 2000, Eminem embarked on several high-profile tours, including the Up in Smoke Tour with Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, and others, as well as the Anger Management Tour with various artists. He also collaborated with Jay-Z on the critically acclaimed album The Blueprint, showcasing his production and rapping skills.
2000: Eminem Mocks XXL in "Marshall Mathers"
Eminem's track "Marshall Mathers" from his 2000 album "The Marshall Mathers LP" included lyrics mocking XXL magazine. This action led to ongoing negative coverage of Shady/Aftermath artists by XXL, fueling tension between Eminem and the publication.
2000: Eminem: Bestselling Music Artist of the 2000s
Eminem was recognized as the bestselling music artist in the U.S. from 2000 to 2009 by Nielsen SoundScan.
2000: Artist of the Decade
Eminem was named "Artist of the Decade (2000-2009)" by Billboard.
2000: Release of "The Marshall Mathers LP"
Eminem released "The Marshall Mathers LP" in 2000, which became a global success and was nominated for a Grammy Award for Album of the Year.
2000: Eminem Named Artist of the Decade
Eminem received the prestigious "Artist of the Decade (2000-2009)" award from Billboard, cementing his status as a dominant force in the music industry during that period.
2000: Assault Charge
Eminem faced an assault charge in 2000 stemming from an altercation with a bouncer whom he allegedly saw kissing his wife. This event and its emotional impact were reflected in his music, particularly on The Eminem Show.
2000: Eminem and Moby Feud Begins
Eminem and Moby engaged in a public feud starting in 2000 following the release of Eminem's album "The Marshall Mathers LP". Moby criticized the album's lyrics, citing misogyny and homophobia, leading to a war of words between the two artists.
2000: Eminem Continues Feud on The Marshall Mathers LP
Eminem's feud with Insane Clown Posse continued in 2000 on his album The Marshall Mathers LP, where he included diss tracks targeting the group.
June 28, 2001: Eminem's Sentencing for Weapon Charges
On June 28, 2001, Eminem was sentenced to a year of probation, community service, and a fine for weapon charges related to a previous incident with an employee of Psychopathic Records.
2001: D12 Releases Debut Album "Devil's Night"
In 2001, D12, a rap group formed by Eminem, Proof, and Kon Artis, released their debut album, "Devil's Night". The album featured hit singles like "Shit on You", "Purple Pills", and "Fight Music". Notably, "Purple Pills" was revised for radio and television, becoming "Purple Hills" due to its controversial content about drugs and sex.
2001: Conclusion of Lawsuit with Eminem's Mother
The lawsuit filed by Eminem's mother concluded in 2001 with a relatively small award of $1,600 for damages.
2001: D12 Targets Everlast and Limp Bizkit on "Girls"
In 2001, Eminem's group D12 released "Girls," a diss track aimed at Everlast and Limp Bizkit, stemming from a dispute involving Everlast and comments made by Limp Bizkit's DJ Lethal.
2001: DeAngelo Bailey Sues Eminem
In 2001, DeAngelo Bailey, a former schoolmate of Eminem, initiated a lawsuit against the rapper, accusing him of invasion of privacy and false portrayal in the song "Brain Damage." Bailey alleged that Eminem's depiction of him as a bully was exaggerated.
2001: Eminem Appears in "The Wash"
In 2001, Eminem appeared in the film "The Wash", marking one of his early steps into the world of film.
2001: Elton John Praises Eminem
Following their Grammy Awards rehearsal in 2001, Elton John compared Eminem's stage presence to legendary performers like Jimi Hendrix, Mick Jagger, James Brown, and Aretha Franklin. John lauded Eminem's talent, calling him a "true poet of his time" and "one of the best lyricists ever," drawing parallels to Bob Dylan's ability to authentically express his emotions through music.
2001: Grammy Performance with Elton John
Eminem's performance with Elton John at the 2001 Grammy Awards, featuring "Stan", sparked controversy due to the perceived clash between Elton John's status as a gay icon and the homophobic accusations against Eminem's lyrics. The performance led to protests by GLAAD.
2001: Eminem and Kimberly Anne Scott Divorce
Eminem and Kimberly Anne Scott's first marriage ended in divorce in 2001.
2001: Collaboration with Dr. Dre
Eminem and Dr. Dre continued their collaboration throughout the 2000s, working on several hit songs together, including "Forgot About Dre" and "What's the Difference", and contributing to each other's albums. Notably, Dr. Dre provided uncredited vocals on "The Watcher" from his 2001 album.
2001: D12's Debut Album "Devil's Night" Released
D12 released their debut album "Devil's Night" in 2001.
March 31, 2002: Jacques Loussier Sues Eminem and Dr. Dre
On March 31, 2002, French jazz pianist Jacques Loussier filed a lawsuit against Eminem and Dr. Dre for copyright infringement, claiming that the beat for the song "Kill You" was copied from his composition "Pulsion." Loussier sought to halt sales of "The Marshall Mathers LP."
May 2002: The Eminem Show Release
Eminem released The Eminem Show in May 2002, which topped charts and explored his personal life, including his relationship with his daughter and wife, his increasing fame, and his position within the hip hop community.
November 19, 2002: Canibus Releases "Dr. C PhD"
On November 19, 2002, Canibus reignited his feud with Eminem by releasing the diss track "Dr. C PhD", furthering their ongoing lyrical battle.
2002: Eminem Compared to Bob Dylan and William Shakespeare
In 2002, the BBC compared the public perception of Eminem to that of Bob Dylan in the 1960s and William Shakespeare, highlighting the intense academic scrutiny of his work. Eminem was recognized for his raw depictions of disenfranchised lives, reflecting social injustices, and his appeal to the "young, angry white underclass." Vice also emphasized his connection with high schoolers, embodying teenage angst and rebellion.
2002: Eminem and Canibus Feud Continues
The feud between Eminem and Canibus continued in 2002, with both rappers exchanging diss tracks. Eminem targeted Canibus on tracks from "The Eminem Show" and "Man vs. Machine", while Canibus responded with "Dr. C PhD".
2002: Carey Releases "Clown"
Mariah Carey released "Clown" in 2002 on her album "Charmbracelet", a track with lyrical references similar to her later hit "Obsessed". Though not explicitly confirmed, the song is speculated to be a response to Eminem's comments about her in his music.
2002: Signing of 50 Cent
In a joint venture with Dr. Dre's Aftermath label, Eminem signed 50 Cent to Shady Records in 2002.
2002: Eminem Expresses Reluctance Towards Marriage
In a 2002 interview with Rolling Stone, Eminem expressed a strong aversion to the idea of getting married again following his divorce from Kimberly Anne Scott.
2002: Eminem's Impact on Hip Hop and Breaking Racial Barriers
Eminem is widely recognized for popularizing hip hop among a Middle American audience and his exceptional global success as a white rapper challenged racial barriers in mainstream music. His music, fueled by his personal struggles and experiences, resonated with a broad audience, reflecting the realities of the American underclass and his journey from poverty to fame. Eminem has had a significant influence on artists across various music genres.
2002: Eminem Compared to John Lennon
In 2002, rock critic Alan Light wrote an article for Spin magazine in which he compared Eminem to the Beatles' John Lennon.
2002: Eminem Stars in "8 Mile"
In 2002, Eminem starred in "8 Mile", a semi-autobiographical film loosely based on his life experiences growing up in Detroit. Though fictionalized, the film provided a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of his early life.
2002: Eminem's First Encounter with Drug Addiction
Eminem's struggles with drug addiction began in 2002 during the production of 8 Mile. He developed insomnia and was given Ambien, which led to a dependence that would affect him for years.
2002: Release of "The Eminem Show"
Eminem's "The Eminem Show" was released in 2002, achieving worldwide success and a Grammy nomination for Album of the Year.
2002: Eminem Stars in "8 Mile"
Eminem starred in the musical drama "8 Mile", a fictionalized account of his life, in 2002.
2002: Eminem Claims Dating Mariah Carey
In 2002, Eminem stated that he had been in a romantic relationship with singer Mariah Carey, though Carey subsequently denied the claim.
2002: Brief Diss on "Business" from The Eminem Show
Eminem included a brief diss towards Insane Clown Posse on his 2002 single "Business" from The Eminem Show, continuing the long-standing feud.
2002: Eminem Wins Oscar for "Lose Yourself"
Eminem achieved a historic feat in 2002 by becoming the first rapper to win an Academy Award. He received the Oscar for Best Original Song for "Lose Yourself," from the movie 8 Mile, a song co-written with Jeff Bass and Luis Resto.
October 20, 2003: DeAngelo Bailey's Lawsuit Dismissed
On October 20, 2003, the lawsuit brought against Eminem by DeAngelo Bailey was dismissed. The judge, Deborah Servitto, ruled that the lyrics in question were clearly exaggerated and that the public would understand this.
December 8, 2003: US Secret Service Investigates Eminem
On December 8, 2003, the United States Secret Service initiated an investigation into Eminem's lyrics in "We As Americans." The song contained controversial lines about the President of the United States, which sparked concerns about potential threats.
2003: Eminem and Ja Rule Feud
In 2003, a feud ignited between Eminem and Ja Rule after 50 Cent, who had conflict with Ja Rule, signed with Shady Records and Aftermath. Ja Rule expressed his disapproval, leading to escalating tensions and diss tracks.
2003: Benzino Targets Eminem
In 2003, rapper Benzino initiated a feud with Eminem by releasing the diss track "Pull Your Skirt Up", criticizing Eminem's street credibility and accusing him of being manipulated by the music industry. This marked the beginning of a contentious back-and-forth between the two rappers.
2003: Eminem References Mariah Carey in "Superman"
In 2003, Eminem's song "Superman" alluded to a relationship with Mariah Carey, although she denied any intimate involvement. This marked the beginning of Eminem's recurring references to Carey in his music.
2003: Eminem Wins Academy Award for "Lose Yourself"
In 2003, Eminem won an Academy Award for Best Original Song for "Lose Yourself", featured in the movie "8 Mile". The song became a massive hit and solidified his position as a cultural icon. Notably, Eminem did not attend the ceremony, and his co-composer, Luis Resto, accepted the award.
2003: Signing of Stat Quo
Eminem and Dr. Dre expanded the Shady-Aftermath roster by signing Atlanta rapper Stat Quo in 2003.
2003: Busta Rhymes Joins Eminem and 50 Cent
Busta Rhymes joined the ongoing feud involving Eminem and 50 Cent against Ja Rule in 2003, collaborating on the track "Hail Mary 2003". His involvement further intensified the conflict.
October 12, 2004: Michael Jackson's Criticism of "Just Lose It"
On October 12, 2004, Michael Jackson expressed strong disapproval for Eminem's "Just Lose It" music video, which parodied aspects of Jackson's life and legal troubles, including his child molestation trial and the 1984 incident involving his hair catching fire. The video sparked widespread debate and criticism from Jackson's supporters.
October 25, 2004: Release of "Mosh" Music Video
On October 25, 2004, just a week before the US Presidential election, Eminem released the music video for his anti-war song, "Mosh." The video, which featured strong criticism of President George W. Bush, became a talking point during the election season.
2004: D12 Releases Second Album, "D12 World"
In 2004, after a three-year hiatus, D12 returned with their second album, "D12 World". The album featured popular tracks such as "My Band", "How Come", and "American Psycho 2" featuring B-Real from Cypress Hill. Eminem was not featured on the album due to his focus on other projects.
2004: Moby Praises Eminem
Moby expressed praise for Eminem in 2004 for the latter's criticism of then-U.S. President George W. Bush in the song "Mosh". This marked a shift in their relationship, signaling a potential end to their earlier feud.
2004: Eminem Promotes Shady Records with Mock Convention Featuring Donald Trump
In 2004, Eminem promoted his record label, Shady Records, with a mock national convention, the "Shady National Convention", held at the Roseland Ballroom in New York City. During the event, Donald Trump endorsed Eminem.
2004: Controversy Surrounding "Just Lose It" Music Video
Eminem's music video for "Just Lose It" in 2004 sparked controversy due to its parody of Michael Jackson. The video faced criticism and was banned from BET, though later reinstated, due to its depiction of Jackson's child molestation trial, plastic surgery, and the Pepsi commercial incident.
2004: Release of "Encore" and Hiatus
Eminem released "Encore" in 2004. He took a hiatus from music in 2005 due to prescription drug addiction.
2004: Eminem's Political Commentary Through "Mosh"
In 2004, Eminem released "Mosh," a song criticizing President George W. Bush, marking the beginning of his politically charged music.
2004: Co-Executive Producer for 2Pac's "Loyal to the Game"
In 2004, Eminem co-executive produced 2Pac's posthumous album, "Loyal to the Game", alongside Shakur's mother, Afeni.
January 2005: Collaboration on The Game's "The Documentary"
Eminem produced and appeared on "We Ain't", a track from The Game's debut album "The Documentary" released in January 2005. This marked their only collaboration.
December 6, 2005: Release of "Curtain Call: The Hits"
On December 6, 2005, Eminem released "Curtain Call: The Hits," a compilation album featuring some of his most successful songs. The album achieved significant commercial success, becoming his fourth consecutive album to reach number one on the Billboard Hot 200 chart.
2005: Potential Resolution of Eminem's Feud with Insane Clown Posse
In 2005, there were reports that Eminem's feud with Insane Clown Posse had been squashed after Proof facilitated a bowling game between their respective groups.
2005: Signing of Bobby Creekwater and Cashis
Eminem further broadened the Shady Records roster in 2005 by signing Atlanta rapper Bobby Creekwater and West Coast rapper Cashis.
2005: Release of "Curtain Call: The Hits"
Eminem released "Curtain Call: The Hits", a compilation album, in 2005.
2005: Eminem Airs Alleged Mariah Carey Voicemails During Tour
During his Anger Management Tour in 2005, Eminem played alleged voicemails from Mariah Carey, furthering the narrative of their rumored relationship and creating controversy.
January 2006: Eminem Briefly Remarries Kimberly Anne Scott
Eminem and Kimberly Anne Scott briefly remarried in January 2006 after their initial divorce in 2001. The remarriage followed a statement Eminem made in 2002 expressing reluctance toward marriage.
April 2006: Death of Proof
Tragedy struck in April 2006 when Proof, Eminem's close friend and fellow D12 member, was murdered. This deeply affected Eminem, leading to a period of grief and reflection.
December 5, 2006: Eminem Presents: The Re-Up Released
On December 5, 2006, Eminem released "Eminem Presents: The Re-Up", a compilation album that began as a mixtape but evolved into a full album showcasing artists like Stat Quo, Cashis, and Bobby Creekwater.
2006: Production on Obie Trice's "Second Round's on Me"
Eminem contributed to Obie Trice's 2006 album, "Second Round's on Me", producing eight tracks and appearing on the song "There They Go".
2006: Performance at the BET Music Awards
Eminem delivered a memorable verse during a live performance of Busta Rhymes' "Touch It" remix at the 2006 BET Music Awards.
2006: Eminem Elaborates on Relationship with Mariah Carey
In 2006, Eminem asserted that he and Mariah Carey had dated for six to seven months, but ultimately ended their relationship due to personality differences.
2006: Eminem Accused of Assault by Miad Jarbou
In 2006, Eminem faced an accusation of assault from Miad Jarbou, a resident of Royal Oak, Michigan, who alleged the incident occurred in a Detroit strip club bathroom. Although no charges were filed, Jarbou later pursued legal action against Eminem.
December 2007: Eminem's Methadone Overdose and Hospitalization
In December 2007, Eminem was hospitalized following a near-fatal methadone overdose. He was told he was two hours from death. This incident forced him to confront his addiction.
2007: Eight Mile Style and Martin Affiliated Sue Apple and Aftermath Entertainment
In 2007, Eminem's music publishing company, Eight Mile Style, along with Martin Affiliated, sued Apple Inc. and Aftermath Entertainment. The lawsuit centered on claims that Aftermath did not have proper authorization to negotiate a digital download deal for Eminem's songs with Apple for iTunes.
April 20, 2008: Eminem Achieves Sobriety
On April 20, 2008, after years of struggling with addiction, Eminem marked a significant milestone by achieving sobriety, with support from Elton John and rehab programs.
October 21, 2008: Eminem Publishes Autobiography "The Way I Am"
On October 21, 2008, Eminem released his autobiography, "The Way I Am", providing a personal and in-depth look into his life journey. The book delves into his struggles with poverty, drug addiction, fame, heartbreak, family issues, and depression. It also covers his rise to stardom and offers his perspective on past controversies, making it a candid and insightful read for fans and those interested in his personal story.
2008: Hotstylz Releases "Lookin' Boy"
In 2008, Chicago-based rap group Hotstylz released their viral hit "Lookin' Boy".
2008: Eminem Considered for Role in "Jumper"
In 2008, Eminem was considered for the role of David Rice in the science fiction film "Jumper", though the role ultimately went to another actor.
July 2009: Eminem Releases "The Warning"
In July 2009, Eminem responded to Mariah Carey's "Obsessed" with his track "The Warning". The song incorporated alleged voicemails from Carey, furthering the narrative of their speculated relationship.
September 2009: Settlement with Apple Inc.
In late September 2009, the lawsuit against Apple Inc. was settled shortly after the trial commenced.
2009: End of an Era: Eminem's Reign as Bestselling Artist
By 2009, Eminem's remarkable run as the bestselling music artist in the US came to an end, according to Nielsen SoundScan data.
2009: Eminem Makes Cameo Appearance in "Funny People"
Eminem made a cameo appearance in the 2009 Judd Apatow comedy "Funny People", sharing a scene with actor Ray Romano.
2009: Return with "Relapse"
Eminem returned to the music scene in 2009 with the album "Relapse" after a four-year hiatus.
2009: Carey Releases "Obsessed"
Mariah Carey released "Obsessed" in 2009, which fueled speculation about her alleged relationship with Eminem. The song depicted an obsessed man claiming a relationship with Carey, leading many to believe it was directed at Eminem.
2009: Eminem's Music Analyzed for "King of Hip-Hop" Title
Rolling Stone magazine conducted an analysis of various metrics, including album sales, chart positions, YouTube views, and industry awards, for solo rappers who released music from 2009 to the first half of 2011. Based on this analysis, Eminem was dubbed the "King of Hip-Hop."
2009: Eminem's Decade of Dominance Ends
The year 2009 marked the end of the period for which Eminem was recognized as "Artist of the Decade" by Billboard.
July 2010: Court Rules in Favor of F.B.T. Productions and Eminem
In July 2010, the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit ruled in favor of F.B.T. Productions and Eminem, determining that they were entitled to a 50 percent royalty from Aftermath's net revenue generated by licensing Eminem's recordings to companies such as Apple, Sprint, Nextel, Cingular, and T-Mobile.
September 2010: Nick Cannon Releases "I'm a Slick Rick"
Nick Cannon, then-husband to Mariah Carey, responded to Eminem's "The Warning" with "I'm a Slick Rick" in September 2010. The song mocked Eminem, further escalating the conflict between the two.
November 21, 2010: Recovery Sales Milestone
On November 21, 2010, Eminem's album "Recovery" reached a significant sales milestone, selling three million copies in the US.
December 2010: Eminem's "Great Eminem Recovery" Tops Billboard's Chart
In December 2010, Billboard recognized Eminem's successful year with "Recovery", naming it the number one entry on their "Top 25 Music Moments of 2010" list.
2010: Eminem's Homophobic Lyrics Explored on 60 Minutes
In 2010, journalist Anderson Cooper addressed the controversy surrounding accusations of homophobia in Eminem's lyrics during a 60 Minutes interview. Eminem has consistently denied these accusations, claiming that his use of words like "faggot" and "queer" was not specifically directed at homosexuals but reflected a broader derogatory context in his upbringing.
2010: Release of "Recovery"
Eminem released "Recovery" in 2010, which became the best-selling album globally that year.
2010: Eminem Re-affirms Focus on Music Career
In a 2010 interview with Jonathan Ross, Eminem emphasized his deep passion for music, stating that it was his primary focus. While acknowledging the possibility of future film roles, he reaffirmed music as his true calling.
2010: Eminem Clarifies Relationship Status with Kimberly Anne Scott
In early 2010, Eminem refuted tabloid rumors claiming he had reignited his romantic relationship with Kimberly Anne Scott. However, his representative confirmed that they maintained a friendly relationship at that time.
2010: Eminem Becomes Most-Followed Person on Facebook
Eminem's global popularity surged in 2010, making him the most-followed person on Facebook, surpassing music icons like Lady Gaga, Justin Bieber, Rihanna, and Michael Jackson.
March 2011: Diamond Certification for The Marshall Mathers LP
In March 2011, The Marshall Mathers LP achieved Diamond certification by the RIAA, signifying its exceptional sales and cultural impact, solidifying Eminem's position as a major figure in the music industry.
March 2011: Supreme Court Declines to Hear the Case
In March 2011, the Supreme Court of the United States decided not to hear the case involving F.B.T. Productions and Eminem.
March 2011: The Eminem Show and The Marshall Mathers LP Certified Diamond
In a historic achievement, Eminem became the first rapper with two diamond-certified albums when "The Eminem Show" and "The Marshall Mathers LP" achieved this certification in March 2011.
April 8, 2011: Eminem Features on "Writer's Block"
Eminem collaborated with Royce da 5'9" on his track "Writer's Block", released on April 8, 2011, further solidifying their musical partnership.
June 14, 2011: Bad Meets Evil Release "Hell: The Sequel"
Eminem and Royce da 5'9", reunited as Bad Meets Evil after forming in 1998, released their collaborative EP, "Hell: The Sequel" on June 14, 2011.
2011: Eminem's Grammy Performance
Eminem delivered a powerful performance at the 2011 Grammy Awards, showcasing his collaboration with Rihanna on "Love the Way You Lie (Part II)" and his iconic track "I Need a Doctor" alongside Dr. Dre and Skylar Grey.
2011: Eminem Crowned "King of Hip-Hop" by Rolling Stone
In 2011, Eminem received the title of "King of Hip-Hop" from Rolling Stone, following an extensive analysis of various industry metrics related to solo rappers who had released music from 2009 onwards.
May 24, 2012: Eminem Announces New Album
Eminem announced on May 24, 2012, that he was working on his next album, scheduled for release the following year, sparking anticipation among fans and industry publications.
October 2013: Eminem Samples "Lookin' Boy" in "Rap God"
Eminem used a sample from Hotstylz's 2008 hit "Lookin' Boy" in his single "Rap God," released in October 2013.
November 2013: Hotstylz Releases Diss Track "Rap Fraud"
Hotstylz released "Rap Fraud", a diss track aimed at Eminem, in November 2013. In the track, they sampled some of Eminem's songs and criticized him for not giving them credit for the "Lookin' Boy" sample.
2013: Anticipation for Eminem's Upcoming Album
Eminem's untitled album, scheduled for 2013, generated significant buzz, appearing on several "Most Anticipated Albums of 2013" lists, reflecting the high expectations surrounding his upcoming release.
2013: Eminem Receives Global Icon Award at MTV EMAs
In 2013, Eminem's global impact on music was recognized with the Global Icon Award at the MTV Europe Music Awards ceremony.
2013: Eminem Apologizes to His Mother in "Headlights"
In his 2013 song "Headlights", Eminem expressed his love for his mother and offered an apology for some of his previous lyrics that may have caused her pain. He specifically mentioned his song "Cleanin' Out My Closet", known for its critical portrayal of his mother.
2013: Eminem Releases "Survival" for "Call of Duty: Ghosts"
Eminem's track "Survival", featuring Liz Rodrigues, premiered on August 14, 2013, in the multiplayer trailer for the video game "Call of Duty: Ghosts", generating excitement among fans of both music and gaming.
2013: Production on Cashis' "The County Hound 2"
Eminem produced four tracks for Cashis' 2013 album, "The County Hound 2".
2013: Eminem Declines Role in "Elysium"
Eminem was offered a leading role in the 2013 science fiction film "Elysium", directed by Neill Blomkamp. However, he declined the offer because Blomkamp would not change the film's setting from Los Angeles to Detroit, demonstrating Eminem's loyalty to his hometown.
2013: Eminem Releases "The Marshall Mathers LP 2"
Eminem released his highly anticipated album, "The Marshall Mathers LP 2", on November 5, 2013, solidifying his position as a leading force in the music industry.
2013: Eminem Addresses Homophobic Lyrics in "Rap God"
Further accusations of homophobia arose in 2013 due to lyrics in Eminem's song "Rap God." Eminem reiterated his previous defense, stating that his use of certain words in the context of battle rapping did not carry a specific anti-gay intent.
2013: Release of "The Marshall Mathers LP 2"
Eminem released "The Marshall Mathers LP 2" in 2013, which topped the US charts.
2013: Eminem Receives YouTube Music Awards' Artist of the Year
Eminem was honored with the inaugural YouTube Music Awards' Artist of the Year award on November 3, 2013, recognizing his significant impact on the platform.
January 2014: D12 Returns to Studio
In January 2014, Bass Brothers announced D12's return to the studio to work on a new album at F.B.T. Studio. The album was expected to feature Eminem on at least three songs and was slated for a 2014 release. Bizarre confirmed his continued involvement with the group.
2014: Eminem Promotes Shady Records Compilation
Eminem and Paul Rosenberg created anticipation for an upcoming Shady Records compilation in 2014 by using the hashtag #SHADYXV on social media, engaging fans and generating buzz around the project.
2014: Eminem: Most-Streamed Artist on Spotify
Eminem was named the most-streamed music artist ever by Spotify in 2014, marking a significant milestone in his career and highlighting his enduring popularity in the digital music era.
2014: Eminem Makes Cameo in "The Interview"
In 2014, Eminem made a cameo appearance as himself in the controversial comedy "The Interview". During his scene with the main character, Dave Skylark (played by James Franco), Eminem satirically came out as gay, adding a layer of social commentary to the film.
January 2015: Hotstylz Sues Eminem for Copyright Infringement
In January 2015, TMZ reported that Hotstylz filed a lawsuit against Eminem and Shady Records, seeking $8 million for the use of a 25-second sample from their song "Lookin' Boy" in "Rap God" without permission.
March 12, 2015: Eminem Releases Vinyl Box Set
Eminem released "The Official Eminem Box Set" on March 12, 2015, a comprehensive vinyl collection encompassing his illustrious career, providing fans with a tangible representation of his musical legacy.
June 2, 2015: "Phenomenal" Release
On June 2, 2015, Eminem released "Phenomenal," the first single from the soundtrack for the sports drama "Southpaw," which he executive produced with Shady Records.
June 2015: Executive Producer and Music Supervisor for "Motor City"
It was announced in June 2015 that Eminem would serve as executive producer and music supervisor for the TV series "Motor City," which drew inspiration from the 2002 film "Narc."
July 1, 2015: First Beats 1 Interview
Eminem became the first guest interviewed by Zane Lowe on Apple Music's Beats 1 radio on July 1, 2015. The interview was streamed online, marking a significant moment for the new platform.
July 10, 2015: "Kings Never Die" Release
Eminem released another single, "Kings Never Die," featuring Gwen Stefani, on July 10, 2015, on YouTube via his Vevo account. This track was also part of the "Southpaw" soundtrack.
September 2016: Collaboration on "Kill For You"
Eminem was featured on Skylar Grey's song "Kill For You" in September 2016. The track was included in Grey's album "Natural Causes."
October 19, 2016: "Campaign Speech" Release and New Album Announcement
Eminem released a politically charged hip-hop track titled "Campaign Speech" on October 19, 2016. He also revealed that he was working on a new album.
November 17, 2016: Remastered "Infinite" Release
Eminem released a remastered version of his debut album "Infinite" on his YouTube VEVO channel on November 17, 2016, revisiting his musical roots.
November 22, 2016: "Partners in Rhyme" Documentary Trailer Release
Eminem released a trailer for "Partners in Rhyme: The True Story of Infinite," a 10-minute documentary about his debut album, on November 22, 2016.
2016: Eminem Criticizes Donald Trump in "Campaign Speech"
Eminem's criticism of Donald Trump intensified in 2016 with the release of "Campaign Speech," expressing his opposition to Trump's candidacy for president.
February 2017: Feature on Big Sean's "No Favors"
Eminem was featured on Big Sean's track "No Favors" from the album "I Decided" in February 2017. The song sparked controversy for its lyrics targeting President Donald Trump and conservative commentator Ann Coulter.
October 2017: "Revival" Teasers
In late October 2017, Eminem and Paul Rosenberg started teasing what seemed to be a new album titled "Revival." They used advertisements for a fictitious medication with the same name, creating intrigue and anticipation among fans.
October 2017: Collaboration on Pink's "Revenge"
Eminem appeared on Pink's song "Revenge" from her album "Beautiful Trauma" in October 2017.
December 15, 2017: "Revival" Release
Eminem's album "Revival" was officially released on December 15, 2017, following online leaks. The release followed a series of promotional activities, including single releases and live performances.
2017: Eminem Expresses Regret over Collaboration with Trump
In 2017, Eminem released his album "Revival", where he expressed regret over his previous collaboration with Donald Trump in 2004, rapping, "wish I would have spit on it before I went to shake his hand at the event".
2017: Controversial Lyrics in "Unaccommodating"
The lyrics of "Unaccommodating" from "Music to Be Murdered By" drew significant backlash for referencing the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing. The lyrics were criticized for being insensitive and disrespectful to the victims and their families.
2017: First "Mom's Spaghetti" Pop-Up Event in Detroit
In 2017, Eminem held the first pop-up event for "Mom's Spaghetti" in Detroit. This was inspired by the lyrics "His palms are sweaty, knees weak, arms are heavy / There's vomit on his sweater already, mom's spaghetti" from his song "Lose Yourself".
2017: Release of "Revival"
Eminem's album "Revival" was released in 2017.
2017: Eminem Addresses Gun Control in "Darkness"
In 2017, Eminem's song "Darkness" reflected on the Las Vegas mass shooting and advocated for gun control, showcasing his views on a pressing social issue.
January 5, 2018: "River" Release
On January 5, 2018, "River," the second single from "Revival," featuring Ed Sheeran, was released. The song marked Eminem's eighth consecutive album to reach the top of the Billboard 200 chart.
August 31, 2018: "Kamikaze" Release
Eminem surprised fans with the release of his tenth studio album, "Kamikaze," on August 31, 2018. This came just eight months after "Revival" and marked his second album release in a short span. The album debuted at the top of the Billboard 200 chart.
September 2018: Eminem and Machine Gun Kelly's Feud
In September 2018, Eminem and Machine Gun Kelly were involved in a public feud, exchanging diss tracks. Kelly released "Rap Devil", Eminem responded with "Killshot", and former D12 associate Bizarre also released a diss track titled "Love Tap". "Killshot" was a huge success, breaking records on YouTube and becoming one of Eminem's highest-charting singles.
October 15, 2018: "Venom" Performance on "Jimmy Kimmel Live!"
Eminem performed "Venom" from his "Kamikaze" album on "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" on October 15, 2018. The performance took place on the 103rd floor of the Empire State Building, adding a unique and memorable element to the promotion of the album.
2018: "Mom's Spaghetti" Pop-Up at Coachella
Eminem brought the "Mom's Spaghetti" pop-up experience to Coachella in 2018, offering fans and festival-goers a chance to experience the culinary creation inspired by his iconic lyrics.
2018: Release of "Kamikaze"
Eminem released "Kamikaze" in 2018.
2018: Eminem Criticizes "Mumble Rappers" on Kamikaze
Eminem's 2018 album, Kamikaze, was notable for its criticism of other musicians, particularly "mumble rappers," leading to public responses from several artists.
2018: Secret Service Interviews Eminem over Lyrics about Donald Trump
In 2018, the Secret Service interviewed Eminem about lyrics in his music that were perceived as threatening towards then-President Donald Trump and his daughter Ivanka. This was not the first time Eminem's lyrics about Trump had attracted attention from the Secret Service.
2018: Secret Service Interview
Between 2018 and 2019, the Secret Service interviewed Eminem due to his lyrics that were perceived as threatening towards President Donald Trump and his daughter, Ivanka.
February 23, 2019: Re-release of "The Slim Shady LP"
On February 23, 2019, Eminem commemorated the 20th anniversary of "The Slim Shady LP" by releasing a re-issue of the album. The re-issue included bonus content such as acapellas, instrumentals, and radio-edited versions of the original tracks.
2019: Secret Service Interview
Between 2018 and 2019, the Secret Service interviewed Eminem due to his lyrics that were perceived as threatening towards President Donald Trump and his daughter, Ivanka.
2019: Recording of "Music to Be Murdered By"
Eminem's "Music to Be Murdered By" was recorded throughout 2019 and 2020. The album involved collaborations with several artists, showcasing Eminem's engagement with the contemporary music scene.
2019: Previous Break-in Attempt by Matthew David Hughes
In 2019, Matthew David Hughes had already pleaded guilty to breaking into another home while searching for Eminem, indicating an obsession with the rapper.
2019: Secret Service Interviews Eminem over Lyrics about Donald Trump
In 2019, the Secret Service interviewed Eminem about lyrics in his music that were perceived as threatening towards then-President Donald Trump and his daughter Ivanka. This was not the first time Eminem's lyrics about Trump had attracted attention from the Secret Service.
January 17, 2020: "Music to Be Murdered By" Release
Eminem released "Music to Be Murdered By," another surprise album, on January 17, 2020. The album, which features guest appearances by various artists, marked his tenth consecutive album to debut at number one on the US Billboard 200 chart.
February 9, 2020: "Lose Yourself" Performance at the Academy Awards
Eminem delivered a performance of his iconic song "Lose Yourself" at the 92nd Academy Awards ceremony on February 9, 2020.
March 9, 2020: "Godzilla" Music Video Release
The music video for "Godzilla," a track from "Music to Be Murdered By," was released on YouTube via Lyrical Lemonade's channel on March 9, 2020. The video features appearances by Mike Tyson and Dr. Dre.
March 11, 2020: "Music to Be Murdered By" Certified Gold
On March 11, 2020, "Music to Be Murdered By" achieved Gold certification, signifying its commercial success.
April 2020: Break-in at Eminem's Home
In April 2020, a man broke into Eminem's home. The intruder, Matthew David Hughes, claimed he intended to kill the rapper. Hughes was sentenced to probation and time served.
July 9, 2020: "The Adventures of Moon Man & Slim Shady" Announcement
Kid Cudi's daughter, Vada, announced on July 9, 2020, that Kid Cudi would be releasing a song titled "The Adventures of Moon Man & Slim Shady" featuring Eminem.
December 18, 2020: Release of "Music to Be Murdered By - Side B"
On December 18, 2020, Eminem surprised fans with a deluxe edition of his album "Music to Be Murdered By", titled "Side B", featuring 16 new tracks with guest appearances and music videos. The album debuted at number 3 on the Billboard 200.
2020: Release of "Music to be Murdered By"
Eminem's album "Music to be Murdered By" was released in 2020.
2020: Eminem's "Lose Yourself" Used in Joe Biden Campaign
Eminem allowed his song "Lose Yourself" to be used in a campaign video for Joe Biden in the 2020 US presidential election, signaling his support for Biden.
2020: Eminem Supports COVID-19 Relief Efforts
During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Eminem demonstrated his philanthropic side by donating a pair of rare Air Jordan 4 Retro Eminem Carhartt shoes to be raffled off for COVID-19 relief. Additionally, he donated "mom's spaghetti", inspired by his song "Lose Yourself", to healthcare workers at Henry Ford Health System in Detroit, showing support for frontline workers during the crisis.
September 29, 2021: Eminem Opens "Mom's Spaghetti" Restaurant in Detroit
On September 29, 2021, Eminem and Union Joints opened "Mom's Spaghetti", a spaghetti restaurant inspired by a famous line from his song "Lose Yourself", in Detroit. The restaurant's opening followed successful pop-up events in Detroit in 2017 and at Coachella in 2018.
September 30, 2021: Featured on "Last One Standing" for "Venom: Let There Be Carnage" Soundtrack
Eminem was featured on the track "Last One Standing" with Polo G and Mozzy for the "Venom: Let There Be Carnage" movie soundtrack, released on September 30, 2021.
2021: Sentencing for Eminem's Home Intruder
In 2021, Matthew David Hughes, the man who broke into Eminem's home in 2020, was sentenced to probation and time served after pleading guilty to second-degree home invasion.
February 13, 2022: Super Bowl LVI Halftime Show Performance
On February 13, 2022, Eminem joined Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Kendrick Lamar, and Mary J. Blige for a memorable Super Bowl LVI halftime performance, which also included surprise appearances from 50 Cent and Anderson .Paak.
June 24, 2022: Release of "From the D to the LBC" with Snoop Dogg
Eminem and Snoop Dogg released their collaborative track "From the D to the LBC" on June 24, 2022, marking a reconciliation between the two rappers.
July 11, 2022: Announcement of "Curtain Call 2"
On July 11, 2022, Eminem announced his second greatest hits album, "Curtain Call 2", a sequel to his first compilation, covering his work from "Relapse" to "Music to be Murdered By".
August 5, 2022: Release of "Curtain Call 2"
Eminem released "Curtain Call 2", his second greatest hits album, on August 5, 2022, featuring tracks from his albums "Relapse" to "Music to be Murdered By", collaborations, movie soundtrack contributions, and new tracks, including "The King and I", "From the D 2 the LBC", and "Is This Love ('09)" featuring 50 Cent.
August 26, 2022: Feature on "Use This Gospel" Remix
Eminem was featured alongside Kanye West on the remix of "Use This Gospel" for DJ Khaled's album "God Did", released on August 26, 2022. The remix was initially planned for West's unreleased album, "Jesus Is King Part II".
October 8, 2022: "Godzilla" Music Video Reaches Over 520.9 Million Views
By October 8, 2022, the music video for "Godzilla" had surpassed 520.9 million views on YouTube, indicating its continued popularity.
November 2022: Induction into Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
Eminem was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in November 2022.
2022: The Game Releases Diss Track "The Black Slim Shady"
In 2022, The Game released "The Black Slim Shady", a ten-minute diss track aimed at Eminem.
2022: Bob Dylan Praises Eminem
In a 2022 interview with the Wall Street Journal, Bob Dylan included Eminem among a group of artists he admires.
2022: Eminem Expresses Regret Over Moby Feud
Eminem, in 2022, admitted regret for his past feud with Moby. This statement publicly acknowledged his remorse for the conflict, suggesting a desire to move past the negativity surrounding their previous interactions.
2022: Eminem Inducted into Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
Eminem, along with Duran Duran and Dolly Parton, was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2022.
2022: Eminem Acknowledges House of Pain as Influence
During his Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction speech in 2022, Eminem credited House of Pain as an influence, potentially signaling a resolution to his past dispute with Everlast.
August 30, 2023: Eminem Targeted in Racially-Motivated Attack
On August 30, 2023, it was revealed that the perpetrator of the 2023 Jacksonville shooting had planned to target Eminem and Machine Gun Kelly in a racially-motivated attack.
2023: Eminem Launches "Mom's Spaghetti" Jarred Pasta Sauce
In 2023, Eminem further expanded the "Mom's Spaghetti" brand by launching a jarred pasta sauce inspired by the same concept, making the culinary experience more widely accessible.
2023: Eminem Opposes Vivek Ramaswamy's Use of "Lose Yourself"
In 2023, Eminem objected to Republican candidate Vivek Ramaswamy's use of "Lose Yourself" at campaign rallies, issuing a cease and desist letter.
January 2024: Eminem Reignites Feud with Benzino
Eminem reignited his past feud with Benzino in January 2024 through the release of a new diss track titled "Doomsday Pt. 2". This unexpected resurgence of their conflict brought renewed attention to their longstanding rivalry.
March 19, 2024: Dr. Dre Announces Eminem's Upcoming Album
During a March 19, 2024 episode of "Jimmy Kimmel Live!", Dr. Dre revealed Eminem's plans to release a new album that year.