Eminem has revealed that he feels a sense of discomfort when he hears some of his earlier tracks, admitting that he ‘cringes’ at particular songs from his past.
Since he first stepped into the spotlight with his debut album, Infinite, in 1996, Eminem has grown into one of the most iconic figures in the rap industry. With over 300 songs under his belt, it’s only natural that some stand out as favorites while others evoke less pride.
For Eminem, the regret comes not from the musical composition of a song, but from its emotional weight and the personal history it reflects.
The track in question is from his 2002 release, Without Me, which delves into his complicated relationship with his mother, Debbie.
A few years before the song emerged, Eminem’s relationship with Debbie had become strained to the point of legal action, with Debbie suing him for slander and defamation, seeking $10 million. Eventually, they settled the case for $25,000.
Eminem responded with the release of ‘Cleanin’ Out My Closet’, a track that harshly criticizes his mother.
The song contains harsh lyrics, referring to his mom as a ‘selfish b**ch’ and expressing a wish that she would ‘burn in Hell’.
He also accused her of ‘popping prescription pills’ and declared his intent to keep her away from his daughter.
While this song captured how Eminem felt at that point in time, his perspective has evolved, leading to a change in his views on the track.
In 2013, Eminem released another song, this time offering an apology to his mother and reflecting on his earlier sentiments in ‘Cleanin’ Out My Closet’.
In his track ‘Headlights’, he expresses remorse: “My mom probably got it the worst / The brunt of it, but as stubborn as we are, did I take it too far? /’Cleaning Out My Closet’ and all them other songs /