How Eminem Shaped the Future: A Legacy Timeline

A detailed timeline of the impact and legacy of Eminem across different fields.

Eminem, born Marshall Mathers III, is a highly influential American rapper, songwriter, and producer. Widely considered one of hip-hop's greatest, he is recognized for popularizing the genre in Middle America and challenging racial barriers, paving the way for white rappers. Although his controversial lyrics sparked debate in the late 90s and early 2000s, he became a voice for the angst of the American underclass.

Sections (7)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals Legacy & Impact

2000: Artist of the Decade by Billboard

Billboard named Eminem the "Artist of the Decade (2000–2009)", recognizing his impact and achievements during that period.

2000: Best-selling music artist

Eminem was the best-selling music artist from 2000 to 2009 in the U.S. according to Nielsen SoundScan, marking a decade of commercial success.

2002: Comparison to John Lennon in Spin

In 2002, rock critic Alan Light compared Eminem to John Lennon of The Beatles in an article for Spin magazine. Specific details of this comparison are not included in the provided text.

2002: Eminem Compared to William Shakespeare and Bob Dylan

In 2002, the BBC noted that Eminem was being perceived as a "modern-day William Shakespeare," drawing parallels to the reception of Bob Dylan in the mid-1960s. Critics highlighted Eminem's portrayal of disenfranchised lives and his use of street language to reflect social injustice, resonating with a young, angry white underclass.

2008: Named Best Rapper Alive by Vibe readers

In 2008, Vibe readers named Eminem the Best Rapper Alive.

2009: Artist of the Decade by Billboard

Billboard named Eminem the "Artist of the Decade (2000–2009)", recognizing his impact and achievements during that period.

2009: Best-selling music artist

Eminem was the best-selling music artist from 2000 to 2009 in the U.S. according to Nielsen SoundScan.

2010: Ranked 7th biggest icon in popular music history by MTV Portugal

In 2010, MTV Portugal ranked Eminem the 7th biggest icon in popular music history.

2011: Labeled the "King of Hip-Hop" by Rolling Stone

In 2011, Eminem was labeled the "King of Hip-Hop" by Rolling Stone based on an analysis of album sales, chart positions, YouTube views, social media following, concert grosses, industry awards and critical ratings of solo rappers who released music from 2009 to the first half of 2011.

2012: Ranked 6th on The Source's list of Top 50 Lyricists of All Time

In 2012, The Source ranked Eminem 6th on their list of the Top 50 Lyricists of All Time, acknowledging his lyrical skill.

2013: Global Icon Award at MTV Europe Music Awards

In 2013, Eminem received the Global Icon Award at that year's MTV Europe Music Awards ceremony, acknowledging his worldwide influence.

2014: Most-streamed artist on Spotify

In 2014, Spotify named Eminem the most-streamed music artist ever, highlighting his digital popularity.

2015: Placed third on "The 10 Best Rappers of All Time" list by Billboard

In 2015, Eminem was placed third on "The 10 Best Rappers of All Time" list by Billboard.

2017: Eminem's Regret over Trump Collaboration

On his album Revival released in 2017, Eminem expressed regret over collaborating with Donald Trump, wishing he had refused to shake his hand at the event.

2022: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction

At the 2022 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction, Eminem named over 100 artists who contributed to the artist he would become. He cited several MCs as influencing his rapping style, including Esham, Kool G Rap, Masta Ace, and Tupac Shakur.