Eminem is a name that echoes through the halls of hip hop and rap as one of it’s most influential. Marshall Mathers, has transformed it.
His music is storytelling excellence, reflecting both his trials and triumphs.
Becoming the most influential was far from easy. Overcoming many struggles like poverty, drug addiction, and tumultuous personal relationships. But he also accumulated an impressive number of awards for his work.
Let’s dive deep into this unfiltered exploration of Eminem’s life and evolution. We’re ranking his albums from best to least.
Eminem’s Albums Ranked
The Eminem Show (2002)
The undisputed champion is “The Eminem Show”. We’re sure a lot of 90 kids will agree.
Eminem’s virtuoso command over words is intensely present in this LP. This album marries elements of anthemia rap with introspective lyricism and hard-hitting flow. Gems include “Cleanin’ Out My Closet”, “Sing for the Moment” and the infectious “Without Me”.
“The Eminem Show” is a timeless illustration of Eminem’s brilliance. It stands tall as one of the best Eminem and hip hop albums. This one is present in the list of the albums that bridged hip hop and mainstream media.
The Marshall Mathers LP (2000)
Securing a close second spot is “The Marshall Mathers LP”. Eminem’s controversial yet celebrated studio album.
Released in 2000 and produced by Dr. Dre and Eminem himself. This album paints a picture of Eminem’s life with dark humor and personal tales. Be it the controversial track “Stan” or the defiant “The Real Slim Shady”.
It switches back and forth between the personas of Slim Shady and Marshall Mathers. Creating a compelling narrative.
Despite its controversies, it stands as a must-hear in his discography. An enduring, uncensored classic of hip-hop.
Recovery (2010)
The bronze medal is for “Recovery”.
This one evolved from the ashes of a canceled project “Relapse 2”. It reflects on Eminem’s battle with addiction.
The globally renowned “Love The Way You Lie”, featuring Rihanna is from “Recovery”. Also “Not Afraid” is definitely worth a listen.
It combines raw storytelling with eye-opening maturity. “Recovery” demonstrated a marked shift in Eminem’s musical style. Veering away from the controversy-driven narrative of his earlier albums.
Slim Shady LP (1999)
The album where it all started, “Slim Shady LP”. Launched from the gritty streets of Detroit.
This album put Eminem on the world map as an artist to watch. It tells Eminem’s story through his alter ego, Slim Shady. Filled with dark humor, confrontational lyrics and memorable beats.
The album is a collection of in-your-face rhymes that cut through societal norms. Key tracks are “Just Don’t Give a Fuck” and “Guilty Conscience”. They envision what would become Eminem’s trademark.
“The Slim Shady LP” tapped into the nerve of the popular culture of the time. Earning Eminem his first Grammy Award for Best Rap Album.
The Remaining Eminem Albums: From “Encore” to “Music To Be Murdered By”
“Encore” released in 2004. “Relapse” in 2009. Theses showcased the rapper’s successful but controversial rollercoaster ride in rap music. Each carrying hits as well as some misses.
“Revival” and “Kamikaze” were released in 2017 and 2018 respectively. They demonstrated Eminem’s capacity to re-emerge and re-vitalize his sound.
His most recent works, “Music to Be Murdered By” from 2020, displays a matured lyrical sound. But underpinned by a commercially focus.
Conclusion
Navigating through the discography of Eminem is much like touring a detailed autobiography.
From the audacious “Slim Shady LP” to his matured “Music To Be Murdered By”. Eminem illuminate his storytelling.
And his journey is undeniably integrated with fabric of hip hop.