Rap God

'Rap God is a song by American rapper Eminem, released on October 15, 2013, as a single from his eighth studio album, The Marshall Mathers LP 2 (2013). The song received widespread acclaim from music critics, who praised Eminem's lyrical ability and speed. It also achieved considerable commercial success, reaching the top ten in several countries worldwide.

Background and Composition

"Rap God" is known for its rapid-fire pace and complex lyrics. The song is six minutes and four seconds long, with Eminem rapping a total of 1,560 words. The song's beat is a mid-tempo electronic track with a heavy presence of synthesizers. Lyrically, "Rap God" finds Eminem discussing his longevity in the music industry, his influence on other artists, and his skills as an unparalleled rapper.

Critical Reception

Upon its release, "Rap God" was met with critical acclaim. Critics praised Eminem's technical skill and the song's production. Many highlighted the song's second verse, where Eminem raps 97 words in 15 seconds, an impressive feat that showcases his rapid-fire delivery. The song was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance at the 57th Grammy Awards.

Commercial Performance

"Rap God" debuted at number seven on the Billboard Hot 100, making it Eminem's 31st top 10 hit on the chart. The song also performed well internationally, reaching the top 10 in several other countries, including the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada.

Music Video

The music video for "Rap God" was released on November 27, 2013. Directed by Rich Lee, it features Eminem rapping in various settings, including a dark room and an outer space backdrop. The video also pays homage to the 1980s Max Headroom TV show, with Eminem appearing as a glitchy, digital version of himself.

Legacy

"Rap God" has been regarded as one of Eminem's greatest songs, showcasing his lyrical prowess and versatility as a rapper. It has also been cited as a benchmark for lyrical speed in hip-hop, inspiring other artists to attempt similar feats of rapid rapping. The song has been analyzed in various academic and journalistic contexts for its complexity and Eminem's skillful manipulation of language.

See Also

• Eminem
• The Marshall Mathers LP 2
• Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance