Eminem, the rap icon, has stirred conversations within the music industry once again, showcasing his unparalleled skills by dropping a sensational diss track.
The 51-year-old artist known as ‘Slim Shady’ has not only contributed to but also played a role in producing a fresh track for his musician friend, featured on Lyrical Lemonade’s latest album, All Is Yellow.
Given that the 8 Mile frontman hasn’t added new beats to the rap scene in several years, it’s understandable that fans eagerly rushed to listen to his latest release.
After what seemed like months of anticipation, the track was finally released earlier today, on January 26.
Listeners were left in a state of shock not only by his globally renowned slick bars and poetic lyrics, but also by another element of the track.
Once again, Eminem, whose real name is Marshall Mathers, has utilized the song as a platform to take shots at an old rival.
In his extensive and critically acclaimed career, the musician has initiated feuds and criticized fellow stars in many of his best-selling hits.
Among the celebrities he has dissed are Machine Gun Kelly, Nick Cannon, Pamela Anderson, and Mariah Carey.
Eminem has dissed countless stars in his rap lyrics. Credit: Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images
In his latest hit, titled “Doomsday Pt. 2,” the Detroit-born star took aim at one of his longest-standing nemeses, urban media proprietor and fellow rapper Benzino.
The feud between the two stars initially ignited in the early 2000s when Source Magazine co-owner Benzino, now 58, leaked an audio recording of Eminem using the N-word multiple times after a breakup with a Black woman.
Following the controversial leak and the ensuing negative coverage, the rapper issued an apology for his use of the racist slur. Consequently, Benzino faced repercussions as he was terminated from his role as a record producer due to the fallout from the incident.
Since then, the duo has seized every opportunity to publicly exchange shots and engage in a war of words.
Eminem and Benzino have been long-standing enemies. Credit: Paras Griffin/Getty Images
In the past year, TV personality Benzino criticized the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame for inducting Eminem ahead of Black artists.
He posted on Twitter: “Addressing all Stans, we’re aware that you’re the least impressive, non-violent fan base in hip-hop. My restaurant is located at 5071 Peachtree Industrial Boulevard, Chamblee, GA, in Atlanta. Instead of tweeting, why not come and see me in person?”
“I distanced myself from this situation, but since the cowardly Stans continue to talk and hide, my stance on Eminem remains unchanged. If you have an issue with me, take action instead of making empty statements. Nothing you’ve said has had any impact on me.”
“I’m equipped with the skills to defend myself, and I have formidable resources. If you have an issue, confront me in person. Let’s settle it face to face.”
In their latest exchange of insults, Eminem’s new single features various derogatory names aimed at Benzino, along with accusations of financial struggles and a transient lifestyle, alleging that he is frequently moving in and out of motels.
The rapper even took aim at Benzino’s daughter Coi Leray. Credit: Monica Schipper/Getty Images for The Recording Academy
“I’ve got a puzzle for you, with just one rule, keep that laughter at bay (Sure). What’s the antithesis of Benzino? (Hmm, what?) A giraffe (Laughs),” he raps. “Targeting his neck, but how’s that fair? (Right) / Attacking something he doesn’t even wear (Laughs) / Arms so brief, can’t even reach his own hands.”
The rapper goes on: “As they perform jumping jacks above his head (Impressive) / Apologies, I don’t intend (Hmm) to distress you, Ben’ (Got it) / When I mention (What?) the financial mess you’re in (Uh).”
“I’ve heard whispers about you (What?) sneaking undercover / In those budget motels (Yeah), where they catch you slipping (What?).”
Eminem goes a step beyond in the track, aiming at Benzino’s daughter, Coi Leray, aged 26, who is herself a prominent figure in the rap scene.
“Well, I hate to be the bearer of bad news, spoiling the mood / But it brings me no pleasure to convey / Seems like that Coi Leray collaboration is down the drain, eh?” he remarks.
Benzino has not responded to the diss as of now.