Eminem is without a doubt one of the most important rappers of all time, he enjoyed success on the early 2000´s with albums such as “The Eminem Show” & “The Marshall Matters LP”. However, after struggling with drug addictions and hit rock bottom, “Recovery” showed a different Eminem, a stronger rapper finding once more his unbreakable spirit with a successful record. But most important a sober human being that has been an inspiration for millions on how to never give up and fight for what you dream about.
Eminem childhood wasn´t an easy one; his father went away when he was a baby and with several moves between Missouri and Michigan to finally settle in Detroit at neighborhoods where he was bullied and had difficult times, he started to find in music and rapping a way to express himself and find his own space to feel free; he found his passion.
After understanding a little bit more his difficult childhood, youth, fame on early 2000´s and struggles with drugs that almost cost his life; the first single “Not Afraid” feels so motivating and honest with lyrics like “It was my decision to get clean, I did it for me, Admittedly, I probably did it subliminally for you, So I could come back a brand new me, You helped see me trough” just like a triumphal comeback for him.
Another great songs from the album are “Almost Famous” & “Untitled” with that characteristic fast rap style, or songs with samples such as “Going Trough Changes” with the amazing “Changes” from Black Sabbath or “No Love” with the 90´s vibes from Haddaway´s “What Is Love” (And If you sang or thought while reading What is Love, Baby don’t hurt me, is ok; that was such a catchy song back on those days).
Of course, we can´t forget about the collaborations such as “Won´t Back Down” with P!nk or the massive hit “Love The Way You Lie” with Rihanna. The combination between Eminem & Rihanna styles is something spectacular, the passion in which both sing the lyrics of a bipolar relationship such as “ Come inside, pick up your bags off the sidewalk, Don´t you hear sincerity in my voice when I talk? Told you this is my fault, look me in the eyeball, Next time I´m pissed, I´ll aim my fist at the dry wall” is just heartrending.
Reflecting on Recovery and how the strength and heart of Eminem is in each song still amazes after 10 years. Such a comeback like the city that welcomed and adopted him has had over the years with that fighting and unique spirit from it´s people, the people from Detroit. Thus, enjoy the record today, find some inspiration, keep it up and like Eminem would say What up Detroit! Stand Up!