Eminem Releases Single 'Houdini' Teasing Album 'The Death of Slim Shady'

Eminem's new single 'Houdini' channels the spirit of 'Without Me' while hinting at the end of Slim Shady era in his upcoming album 'The Death of Slim Shady'. The music video features a mix of old and new celebrity cameos, adding a nostalgic yet contemporary touch to the release.

On May 31, 2024, Eminem released "Houdini," the first single from his upcoming album, "The Death of Slim Shady (Coup de Grâce)." The song maintains a similar beat and self-referential tone as his 2002 single "Without Me." In "Houdini," the 51-year-old rapper continues his tradition of controversial lyrics.

The music video for "Houdini" features Eminem dressed in his old costume from "Without Me" and includes cameos from prominent figures like Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, and 50 Cent. Contemporary celebrities Pete Davidson and Shane Gillis also appear, adding a modern flair to the nostalgic setup.

Eminem's forthcoming album, "The Death of Slim Shady," follows his last LP from 2020, "Music to Be Murdered By." While the official release date for the new album remains unannounced, it has been advertised with a mock obituary for Slim Shady in the Detroit Free Press.

Eminem, born Marshall Mathers III, emerged from Michigan's Detroit neighborhoods and initially found fame with his alter ego, Slim Shady, in the late 90s. Slim Shady's persona, known for its provocative and controversial lyrics, had a significant impact on the rap genre and culture.

In recent years, the portrayal of Slim Shady has faced scrutiny, especially among younger audiences and within today's "cancel culture." Despite this, Eminem remains one of the best-selling rappers, with his latest works achieving billions of streams.

The release of "Houdini" and the tease of "The Death of Slim Shady" indicate a significant moment in Eminem's career, possibly marking the end of his Slim Shady persona while still aiming to show his continued relevance in the rap industry.