Eminem
The Slim Shady LP

“The Slim Shady LP” is the second studio album by American rapper Eminem, released on February 23, 1999, through Aftermath Entertainment and Interscope Records. Recorded in Ferndale, Michigan after Eminem was recruited by Dr. Dre and Jimmy Iovine, the album features production from Dr. Dre, the Bass Brothers, and Eminem himself.

The album incorporates West Coast hip hop, G-funk, and horrorcore musical styles. Most of its lyrical content is delivered from the perspective of Eminem’s alter ego, Slim Shady, who was introduced in the “Slim Shady EP” (1997). The lyrics are known for their cartoonish depictions of violence and heavy use of profanity, which Eminem described as being akin to horror films, purely for entertainment. Despite the satirical nature of many tracks, Eminem also expresses his frustrations about living in poverty.

“The Slim Shady LP” debuted at number two on the Billboard 200, just below TLC’s “FanMail,” and reached number one on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart. The album was both a critical and commercial success, with praise directed towards Eminem’s unique lyrical style, dark humor, and distinctive personality. The lead single, “My Name Is,” became Eminem’s first entry on the Billboard Hot 100.

The album won Best Rap Album at the 2000 Grammy Awards, while “My Name Is” won Best Rap Solo Performance. In 2000, it was certified quadruple platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). “The Slim Shady LP” is frequently included in lists of the greatest albums of all time. The album’s success transformed Eminem from an underground rapper to a high-profile celebrity, but also made him a controversial figure due to his provocative lyrical content, which some perceived as misogynistic and harmful to youth.