In The Eminem Show He Offends...Not This Little Eric (IGTMIM W/O)
Written: May 31 '02 (Updated May 31 '02)
Product Rating:
Pros: Cool grooves and creative raps.
Cons: Vulgar, drags a bit towards the end.
The Bottom Line: Eminem returns once again to face his critics, talk about his legal problems, his mother, ex-wife, and his daughter. Music takes on Batman and Aerosmith themes.
lynus's Full Review: The Eminem Show [PA] [Limited] by Eminem
286 total foul words. One every 17 (+/- 2-3) seconds. Kim, Eminem’s Mom, the government, the Vice President and his wife, Tipper Gore, various other rappers and pop singers, women, and handful of parents who fuel his career by continuing to bring notice to his raps all come under Eminem’s wrath. Incidentally, Eminem does tone down his homophobia only using the Fg-word two to three times – and only once as a generalized statement towards that group. He reserves the use of the word mainly to describe his loser father.
Eminem’s first CD – Slim Shady could be considered Eminem’s ultimate best work. Some will say insulting, derogatory, and nothing less than a piece of trash – but actually it was Eminem most single creative work before he started to deal with his controversy, popularity, and the censorship he faces everywhere he looks. Both the Marshall Mathers LP and The Eminem Show focus heavily on Eminem and how his raps has stirred negative emotions in so many. I give it five stars for no matter how uncreative it may be to spew rapid insults at your critics – Eminem is still creative in what he says, how he says it, and the overall groove he’ll put you in if you allow him to do so.
White America: Will offend: Congress, Lincoln High School, pro-educational activists, parents, The White House, Parental Advisory board, Ms. Cheney, and Tipper Gore.
And, people who don’t like the words: Mother-F (3), Fu*kin (2), Sh*t (4), F*ck (7), A** (1), D*mn (1), P*ss (2), B*tch (1), F*gg*t (1).
White America is Eminem’s response to all the controversy that surrounded his last release The Marshall Mathers LP. In it he not only answers his critics but tries to make them aware that the harder they try to squash him as an artist – the more fuel they add to the fire to his popularity (a theme revisited numerous times throughout the album). That, (hey, new idea here!!!) perhaps they shouldn’t focus so much attention on him, but on those that are listening to him and perhaps educate the Little Eric’s and the Little Erica’s that listening to his music is inappropriate at their age (but we all know that said education is a lower priority than trying to censor music). But no instead Ms Cheney and Tipper Gore (also represented as Congress, the government, and the White House) focus their attention and their rants and raves on Eminem – since he is more of a public figure than those unknown listeners who pop his CD into their player. Well, guess what…Eminem is just as public and perhaps more so than any members on an Advisory Board. Only time will tell…but will there be a White America 2? (Ms. Cheney responded to Eminem’s lyrics in a recent Time Magazine article). Incidentally, not that it matters at all to most, surely not Tipper Gore or Ms Cheney – but Eminem does end the song with the statement “I’m just kidding America, you know I love you”. A question that will probably go unanswered by his critics.
Business Will offend: Batman fans, females with good looks who can cook and clean, and Chanda Levy’s parents.
And, people who don’t like the words: F*ckin (2), B*tch*es (1), Sh*t (3), B*llsh*it (2).
In Business, Eminem gets down to Business rapping about his rap and even takes time to give special props out to Elton John who made perhaps one of the hardest decisions of his career to share the limelight with the most controversial rapper since Vanilla Ice. Eminem continues to rap about his status as a rapper and how he may be the gleaming light of hope that shines to bring notice to rap even if he does so in the face of his skin color. Business also fits in with the Eminem show in a way that Eminem introduces himself to the crowd and gets them prepared for a wonderful evening.
Cleaning Out The Closet Will offend: Parents, Eminem’s Mom and Drop dead fathers.
And, people who don’t like the words: F*ck*n (3), As* (1), F*gg*t (1), Sh*t/s (4), B*tch (2).
Cleaning Out the Closet is Eminem preach to his mother’s insanity that also weights heavily on his upcoming film 8 Mile. Here, Eminem states that he didn’t mean to initially make fun of his mother for the sole sake that she is his mother – but more so because she was a pill popping excuse for a mother who deserved his statements. In the chorus, Eminem even states; “I’m sorry Mama I never meant to hurt you, I never meant to make you cry, but tonight I’m cleaning out my closet”. In doing so, Eminem says at the end of the song; “I hope you (censored) burn in hell for this (censored), Remember when Ronnie died and you said you wished it was me? Well, guess what, I am dead. Dead to you as can be.”
Square Dance Will offend: George W. Bush, women, square dancers, the Senate, the draft, people related directly to the anthrax scare, people related directly to 9/11/01 who don’t like Eminem’s rap, the Navy.
And, people who don’t like the words: Sh*t (2), B*tch (3), D*ck (1), Mother-F (1), As* (2), F*ck/en (5).
Square Dance continues Eminem perhaps insanity on rapping about all the problems he sees in the world that somehow directly relate to his position in the world. 1/2 of his album is filled up with such proclamations whereas the other half settles for generalized feelings or statements on the world. The previous track ended with Eminem attacking his mother and in Square Dance Eminem attacks just about anyone he can – even himself which he did briefly in Coming Out of the Closet by stating “My views ain’t changed still inhumane, wait, arraigned two days late, the date’s today, hang me!”. Square Dance has a pretty cool beat to it too and will probably become the next single released to the radio airwaves if Business’ isn’t chosen first.
Soldier Will offend: anti-gun advocates, lawyers and judges, Kim (Eminem’s ex-wife).
And, people who don’t like the words: Sh*t (2), Puss*es (1), P*ssin (1), F*ck*n (1), Mother-F (5), B*tch (3), C*ck (1).
Although addressed in previous tracks, Eminem brings his gun possession charge to the forefront by rapping about his legal problems. Eminem doesn’t go as far as creating a public service announcement towards his predicament since he states; “I need a good reason to give this trigger a good squeeze” and even taunts those who led up to the situation by saying “I love (censored) you off, it gets me off, like my lawyers, when the (censored) judge lets me off, all you (censored) gotta do is set me off, I’ll violate and all the (censored) bets be off.” Although not addressed lyrically in this track, Eminem does state that the best thing he did was leave the bullets at home (how nice!) but he does state in Soldier that if ever prompted again he may do the same – although for the sake of his daughter he basically is asking others not to tempt him again.
Sayin’ Goodbye to Hollywood Will offend: Kim
And, people who don’t like the words: Sh*t (5), D*mn (1), F*ck/en (5), As* (3), D*ck (1).
One thing that leads up to Eminem’s controversy besides his rapid fire delivery was his way to always find blame on his life on anyone but himself. But in Saying Goodbye to Hollywood it would seem that Eminem sat down and just poured out his emotions related to his almost imprisonment. He raps about his daughter and how he doesn’t want to follow in the footsteps of his father since he hates him so much. He doesn’t want Halie to have to grow up without a father just like he did. In perhaps a future statement, Eminem even raps in Saying Goodbye to Hollywood that “I need to slow down, get my feet on solid ground, so for now I’m leaving Hollywood. All I wanted to do was to give Halie the life I never had, but instead I forced us to live alienated, so I’m saying goodbye to Hollywood.”
Dripsfeaturing Obie Trice Will offend: People with VD’s (Venereal Diseases), women, violence toward pregnant women, prostitutes.
And, people who don’t like the words: D*mn (1), B*tch/es (9), D*ck/s (8), Sh*t/s (9), F*ck/ing/ed/em (10), P*ssy (5), P*nis (2), N’Word (2), T*ts (1), S*men (1), C*m (1), As* (1), Wh*re (1), Ho* (3), Mother-F (1)
If the amount of foul words in Drips is any indication then be forewarned that Drips is an explicit rap about Eminem catching a VD from a girl that gets around the block (if you know what I mean). Eminem along with his first guest (besides Dr. Dre who interjects “hell-ya’s” throughout other tracks) Obie Trice make various graphic statements on “getting it on” and then “it” basically “falling off”. If your grandma frowns on you listening to Eminem – this track will put her in the grave.
Without Me Will offend: Trailer park girls, Ms. Cheney, the FCC, DEBBIE, Elvis fans, Chris Kiekpatrick, Limp Bizkit, Moby, techno fans, Batman fans.
And, people who don’t like the words: F*ck (2), C*m (1), T*ts (1), Sh*t/s (4), B*tch (1), As* (3), D*mn (1), B*stards (1), F*g (1)
Without Me carries on Business’ Batman theme with Eminem taking a time out of his self reflection of VD’s and people he hates (his mother, Kim) to create a generalized rap about the world and his absence from it since the Marshall Mathers LP. Once again Eminem throws in a handful of names of other celebrities who have taken time to diss him in public performances. First (well, second and third I believe too) it was the Insane Clown Posse, and now it’s Moby, Limp Bizkit, and Chris Kiekpatrick. Without Me was the first single released by Interscope from this album for one solid good reason. It has a strong beat that is pure infecting. Any fan of rap – or just about anyone I know (cancel those who think Eminem or rap is disgusting) will find themselves driving down the road with their head bouncing. Perhaps the greatest irony is in the music video on MTV it shows Eminem in a Robin outfit rescuing his CD from falling into the hands of a child. See parents, he’s not all that bad!
Sing for the Moment Will offend: Aerosmith fans, Eminem’s dead beat father, Eminem’s step father,
And, people who don’t like the words: F*ck/in (8), Mother-F (1), As* (1), Sh*t/s (6).
Sing for the Moment could best be described as white rapper meets white rockers. Eminem doesn’t completely destroy Aerosmith’s original song – but he does sound a little weird trying to sing a close resemblance to the original chorus. Aerosmith must of given their permission for him to use their song (a bit strange I’ll agree) but for the most part Eminem just continues his rant on those around him who continue to create controversy and try to squash his career. Various members of the judicial system come under his wrath once again whereas Eminem basically says the more you arrest me, the more you try to censor me, the more little kids will want me. So, dream on critics.
Superman Will offend: Women especially love interests of Eminem ahem perhaps Mariah Carey.
And, people who don’t like the words: B*tch/es (6), Sh*t (2), D*ck (2), Mother-F (1), Sl*t/s (2), As* (3), P*ss (1), F*ckin/ed (3), Ho*/s (2).
Although not as bad as Drips, Eminem once again pauses from his tyrant about those who try to censor him or sue him – and instead focuses on women who try to get into his pants. The title Superman reflects on Eminem self conscious belief that he is Superman, at least in bed, and all the women who just don’t understand him – at least those who end up breaking up with him. The only name given during the song is Mariah Carey which I believe was rumored to be interested in Eminem. But for the most part (evident by the number of time the B word is used during this song) Eminem hasn’t had much luck in the love department.
Halie’s Song Will offend: Kim.
And, people who don’t like the words: F*ck/in (3), Sh*t (2), P*nis (1).
Is Eminem growing up? Well, if I was one to state my positions on statistics – I’d wonder why in Halie’s Song Eminem only says 6 foul words, which has to be a record (even though he makes up for in on the closing track My Dad’s Gone Crazy). He even states, “Now you probably get this picture from my public persona that I’m a pistol packin’ drug addict who bags on his mama…I got my baby, baby the only lady that I adore (Halie).” And yes, Eminem does indeed sing during this track – not just rap, but sing. He does however make fun of himself in the end by saying that he can’t sing. I agree – best he stick with rap.
When the Music Stopsfeaturing D-12 Will offend: People who might think Eminem had a conscious, Michael Jackson, and of course women.
And, people who don’t like the words: Sh*t (5), F*ck/ed/in (7), P*ss (1), As* (2), B*tch (3), Mother-F (1), N-Word (8), Balls (2), Wh*re (1), Ti*ties (1).
“Music. Reality. Sometimes it is hard to tell the difference. But we as entertainers have a responsibility to these kids…Psyche.” This time with D-12, Eminem raps once again about his music in the face of controversy while leaving enough time in the track for his guest rapper to rap about Eminem’s position while being allowed to use various words that if Eminem a white rapper used would perhaps be too much for his career. (Yes, it is interesting how he will say just about anything – but won’t use the N-word as much as his black guest rappers). Although Obie Trice guest starred on Drips – D-12 begins four tracks of guest stars that can only best be described as “Eminem running out of ideas.” Each of the next four tracks repeat Eminem’s statements but with less lyrical creativity than Eminem can do when alone. The CD could of ended here – but you always have to give props to those who influenced you.
Say What U Sayfeaturing Dr. Dre Will offend: Jermaine, Timbaland, and Eminem’s Mom.
And, people who don’t like the words: Sh*t (11), F*ck/in (10), P*ss (1), D*ck (1).
Although Dr. Dre has a direct influence throughout many of Eminem’s tracks – here he gets a chance to shine for at least 50% of the track – and as expected like D-12 and Obie Trice before him, Dr. Dre drags. Eminem sounds more refrained to make sure he doesn’t give away everything he has to deliver to leave opportunity for Dr. Dre to get in a few cool raps. The music is extremely basic to the point that after about 30 seconds the rhythm gets so boring you’ll be longing for your skip button. Eminem raps all the time about how different he is from other rappers – but tracks such as Say What U Say sound so old school you wonder if Eminem is full of sh*t (which by the way he does rap that he is full of).
Till I Collapsefeaturing Nate Dogg Will offend: Kim. Perhaps the press and Bobby Brown and Whitney Houston.
And, people who don’t like the words: Sh*t (7), F*ck/in (2).
Another lifeless rhythm for the most part where the rap is the same as it was with D-12 and Dr. Dre as Eminem shares a little bit of limelight with other rappers who decided to guest star on a track about Eminem’s music, his controversy, and his life. Till I Collapse will make for a good track during a live performance while the crowd claps in unison – but overall the track is pretty tiring and leaves you longing for just Eminem to return.
My Dad’s Gone Crazyfeaturing Halie Jade Will offend: believers that Eminem is using his daughter for profit and subjecting her directly to his music, Russians, Vanilla Ice, R. Kelley, Eminem’s Mom, 9/11 victims.
And, people who don’t like the words: F*ck/in (7), Balls (1), As* (1), Mother-F (5), God D*mmit (1), Sh*t (2), B*tch (2), D*ck (1), C*cks (1), P*ssy (3), Cl*t (1).
Eminem ends his guest list with samples of his daughter Halie Jade stating that her father has gone crazy. Hopefully Eminem just told his daughter to say these various statements into a microphone – because if she was present for and rapped along with her Dad on this track you’d seriously wonder if Eminem had indeed gone crazy. Halie’s contributions sound forced like a piece of a puzzle that doesn’t quite fit – but it’s not a bad way to conclude a CD since many listeners – both fans and detractors - have indeed wondered if Eminem has indeed gone crazy. The track isn’t as fun as Without Me or Business – but still interesting to hear Eminem rap along with his daughter who brings a little life into his words since he spends so much time rapping about her.
Overall, Eminem turns in a winner on his third CD as he creates numerous tracks that have a cool groove regardless of the many insults he spews at those who have in one way or another made him mad throughout his career. The latter part of the album does start to drag with the numerous guest spots – but Halie Jade’s contribution on My Dad’s Gone Crazy ends the CD on a funny, light note – even if Eminem appears to be snorting coke in front of his daughter before beginning to use almost every foul word in existence. Without a doubt there will be an Eminem 4 – since Ms. Cheney has already taken time out of her busy schedule to respond to Eminem’s rants about her and her Vice President husband. Where there’s fuel – there’s fire.
This CD came with an included DVD that contains various live performances recorded with fairly poor audio, a trailer for Eminem’s upcoming movie 8 Mile, a Shockwave cartoon animation, and some music videos from tracks from his first CD. Both the limited edition CD/DVD are priced around $12.99 the same as the CD without the DVD.
This is an entry into Kristinafh’s “I've Got The Music In Me” Write/Off part three of a three part series on music. Check out her profile page for all the other entries.
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