Words by Shurida Lundi
Will the real Slim Shady please stand up? The 8 Mile actor and rapper, Eminem, celebrates his 45th birthday today. Born as Marshall Mathers, we have been able to follow the legacy that is Eminem.
We were introduced to Eminem back in 2000 and since then he has won 13 Grammys, an Oscar for best original song, “Lose Yourself,” released seven studio albums, has had his own radio channel on Sirius XM Radio and starred in the Hip-Hop drama 8 Mile which celebrates its 15th anniversary next month. (There will be a special Detroit showing of the movie on Nov. 8) He has sold over 49.1 million albums and 42 million tracks in the U.S. and 100 million albums worldwide. Don’t forget, Eminem was a member of the group D12 as well as one half of the rap duo, Bad Meets Evil, with Royce da 5’9”.
With songs like “My Name Is,” “The Real Slim Shady,” “Cleanin Out My Closet,” “Lose Yourself,” and so much more, it is safe to say Eminem is one of the greatest of our time. He has bridged the gap between hip-hop and mainstream pop as a white rapper by being comical in his songs and music videos as well as giving us hard-hitting bars to think about. He’s never been afraid to speak his mind either and this is why we appreciate him.
The Source wishes Eminem a Happy 45th Birthday!
ICYMI: Check out Eminem’s freestyle cypher at this year’s BET Hip Hop Awards.
