How did Eminem test Kendrick Lamar the first time they collabed?
In the world of rap, where wordsmiths reign supreme and lyrical prowess is the currency of kings, collaborations often spark a fiery debate. But what happens when one rapper puts another rapper’s ‘authenticity’ on the spot?
Enter Eminem and Kendrick Lamar. Kendrick, had released ‘Good Kid, M.A.A.D City’, the second, and one of the best rap albums of all time, on the 22nd October 2012. But Eminem was skeptical, and wanted to put Kendrick to the test.
According to an interview with Ed Sheeran, who shared insights into this intriguing saga (who heard the story from Rick Rubin), Eminem extends an invitation to Kendrick to grace the studio with his presence. But there’s a catch—no entourage allowed. Eminem’s directive is clear: Kendrick is to enter the studio solo, with only his thoughts and rhymes for company.
According to Ed, “Kendrick did it, wrote a sick verse, and then everyone came in to listen to it. Eminem said that he did it to test Kendrick because he thought he had a ghostwriter. He then realized that he didn’t, then claimed [Kendrick] was the best.”
And what did Kendrick make of the whole situation? Well, according to him, “the thing with Em which was crazy to me is he kicks everybody out of the studio… I took it as him kicking everybody out to see if it’s really you writing those raps that you’re writing.”
And that respect has stayed there ever since. Kendrick’s latest album, ‘Mr. Morale & the Big Stepper” which was released on the 13th May 2022, left Eminem “speechless”.