Eminem

Bursting onto the scene in the late 90s, Eminem first gained notoriety through underground rap battles in Detroit. His major label debut The Slim Shady LP, released in 1999, was an instant sensation, earning acclaim for its raw, darkly comic lyrics. The album’s smash hit “My Name Is” announced Eminem as a defining new voice in rap.

Eminem’s subsequent albums The Marshall Mathers LP (2000) and The Eminem Show (2002) were even bigger blockbusters, making him one of the biggest commercial successes in music. However, his confrontational lyrics also sparked significant controversy, leading to boycotts and public outcries. Eminem courted this criticism unapologetically, cementing his reputation as a rebel.

Albums like Recovery, Relapse and Revival showcased Eminem’s continued dominance through the 2000s and 2010s with hits like “Not Afraid,” “Love the Way You Lie” and “Rap God.” He also starred in the semi-autobiographical film 8 Mile, further boosting his success. To date, Eminem has earned over 15 Grammys and an Oscar.

While scandals and feuds have marred aspects of his personal life, Eminem remains one of hip hop’s most respected MCs thanks to his technical prowess, storytelling and longevity. Now well into his 40s, Eminem continues to thrill fans with surprise releases while mentoring younger talent. His place in the rap pantheon is etched in stone.

Some key highlights of Eminem's monumental hip hop career:

• Over 220 million albums sold worldwide, making him the top-selling rapper ever

• Became the first rapper to win an Academy Award for "Lose Yourself" from 8 Mile

• Holds the record for most consecutive #1 album debuts on Billboard

• Has earned 15 Grammy Awards, 8 American Music Awards and 17 Billboard Music Awards

• Three albums named Rolling Stone's 'Greatest of All Time' - The Marshall Mathers LP, The Eminem Show, The Slim Shady LP

• Discovered and mentored 50 Cent and signed him to Shady Records

• "Stan" (feat. Dido) and "Love The Way You Lie" (feat. Rihanna) became massive crossover hits

• His album releases consistently break sales and streaming records

• 2009 album Relapse was his 6th consecutive #1 album in the US

From upending the rap world to conquering controversy through his art, Eminem stands as a true icon who has left an indelible mark on hip hop.

References:

1. https://www.biography.com/musician/eminem

2. https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-lists/eminem-albums-ranked-786332/

3. https://www.vibe.com/music/music-lists/eminem-albums-ranked-timeline-230070/

4. https://www.cheatsheet.com/entertainment/the-real-slim-shady-10-facts-you-didnt-know-about-eminem.html/

5. https://www.nme.com/photos/nme-covers-we-have-known-eminem-through-the-years-1419245