Eminem has made a career out of trash-talking celebs and courting controversy, but he’s toned down his act considerably in recent years.
Em’s sober now; his three daughters are old enough to listen to his music and understand the lyrics, and there are certain punchlines that would make it onto an album in 1999 that just don’t fly in 2014.
But last night we got a taste of the old Eminem and no, we don’t mean the one you found between your couch cushions:
Em (real name Marshall Mathers) made a rare appearance to promote a new compilation album from his record label, and he quickly reminded us why he doesn’t speak in public much anymore:
After jokingly referring to domestic abuse victim Janay Rice as a “knockout,” the real Slim Shady offered the following lines:
“I’ll punch Lana Del Rey right in the face twice, like Ray Rice in broad daylight in the plan sight of elevator surveillance / Til her head is banging on the railing, then celebrate with the Ravens.”
Obviously, Mathers was referring to the incident in which Baltimore Ravens running back Ray Rice knocked out his fiancee following an argument in an elevator. And obviously, the verse hasn’t been well receives.
Traditionally, freestyle hip hop has been free from the restrictions of political correctness, and artists like Eminem have used shock value and offensive lyrics to win over crowds.
Of course, it’s hard to find an example of a rapper physically threatening a female musician while mocking a domestic abuse victim.
Needless to say, the public reaction to Mathers’ “joke” has been swift and harsh.
Many fans and fellow celebs have expressed their opinion that the comment is particularly distasteful as Eminem’s daughter graduated high school in June and began college this fall.
Hallie Jade Mathers is both old enough to understand her father’s music, and young enough to be influenced by his views on women and violence. Not cool, Em.
