Eminem makes a marked return by unveiling a preview of his highly anticipated twelfth album, The Death of Slim Shady: Coup De Grace, which is scheduled for release this summer. His first single, Houdinievokes the era of 2002 with sounds and visuals from the mega-success video clip Without Meperiod when his alter ego slim Shady dominated the scene.
Since Eminem announced The Death of Slim Shadythere haven’t been many clues on the album. Houdini begins with a voice message from Paul Rosenberg, the manager long-time friend of Eminem, who told him that he had listened to his album and added: “Good f***ing luck, you’re on your own“.
This message certainly sets the tone for the rest of the song, as we see in the video Slim Shady emerging from a 2002 portal.
The simple Houdini and its music video are captivating, as Eminem returns to his origins through sharp storytelling and a video style reminiscent of superhero comics. The music video features two versions of Eminem, one from 2002 in CGI with bleached blonde hair and the other, of a present-day Eminem with brown hair and a beard.
Longtime fans of Eminem appreciate the rapper’s incisive lyrics that evoke various personalities. He notably alludes to the shooting of Megan Thee Stallion in 2020, makes fun of R. Kelly and RuPaul, in addition to hilariously dismissing Dr. Dre, Jimmy Iovine, as well as his three children!
The video is also filled with celebrities such as Dr. Dre, 50 Cent, Snoop Dog and Pete Davidson. Eminem demonstrates with Houdini that his talent and his propensity to provoke controversy are still intact.
THE fans are looking forward to the release of his album this summer.
Until then, since last weekend’s turning point, the planet has once again been vibrating to the rhythm of Slim Shady.
