Eminem is back with his latest single, Houdini, ahead of his highly anticipated album, The Death of Slim Shady. As expected, the track is packed with punchlines, witty lyrics, and namedrops that only Em can deliver. Let’s dive into the lyrical mastery of Houdini.
Eminem ‘Houdini’ lyric breakdown
Eminem opens Houdini with a skit featuring Paul Rosenberg, setting a playful yet challenging tone for the track.
As the intro unfolds, Eminem reintroduces himself in classic style, echoing the iconic line “Guess who’s back, back again?” This immediately signals a return to his Slim Shady persona.
“Well, look what the stork brung / Little baby devil with the forked tongue”
Eminem starts strong with a vivid image, presenting himself as a mischievous figure from birth.
The “forked tongue” symbolises his sharp, biting lyrics and ability to stir controversy.
“Lyrical technician, an electrician / Y’all light work”
Em asserts his dominance in the rap game, likening his skill to that of a technician and dismissing other rappers as “light work.”
This line showcases his confidence and mastery of his craft.
“If I was to ask for Megan Thee / Stallion if she would collab with me/Would I really have a shot at a feat? (Haha)“
Here, Eminem contemplates a collaboration with Megan Thee Stallion, while playing on the 2020 shooting that got Tory Lanez 10 years’ imprisonment.
“Abra-abracadabra / I’m ’bout to reach in my bag, bruh”
The chorus reinforces the magic theme of the song, with Eminem comparing his lyrical prowess to a magician’s tricks.
The repetition of “abracadabra” emphasises his ability to captivate and surprise his audience.
“My shit may not be age-appropriate / But I will hit an eight-year-old in the face with a participation trophy”
Eminem’s dark humor shines through in this line, as he critiques the culture of participation trophies and political correctness. It’s a nod to his unfiltered style and refusal to conform.
“Look what I pocketed / Yeah, the shit is just like y’all had been light joggin’, and / I’ve been runnin’ at full speed”
Eminem brags about his success and work ethic, contrasting his relentless drive with the lacklustre efforts of his competitors.
“Words sting just like you were being attacked by bees”
With this clever simile, Eminem highlights the impact of his lyrics, comparing them to a painful bee sting. It’s a vivid reminder of his sharp, cutting wordplay.
“Bumpin’ R. Kelly’s favorite group, the black guy pees”
Eminem plays with words here, referencing the Black Eyed Peas while making a provocative joke about R. Kelly. This line is a classic example of his ability to mix humour with controversial topics.
“My transgender cat’s Siamese / Identifies as black, but acts Chinese”
Eminem’s irreverent humour continues with this absurd image, showcasing his knack for creating memorable, off-the-wall lines that push boundaries.
“Cancel me, what? Okay, that’s it / Go ahead, Paul, quit, snake-ass prick”
Eminem challenges cancel culture and addresses his critics directly, displaying his defiance and resilience. The mention of Paul, likely Paul Rosenberg, adds a personal touch to his tirade.
“You male cross-dresser, fake-ass bitch”
Continuing his confrontation with critics, Eminem uses provocative language to assert his independence and disdain for societal judgments.
“What you thought you saw ain’t what you saw / ’Cause you’re never gon’ see me / Caught sleepin’ and see the kidnappin’ never did happen / Like Sherri Papini, Harry Houdini”
Eminem ends the song with a series of references, comparing himself to escape artist Harry Houdini and mentioning the controversial case of Sherri Papini.
This cements his reputation for intricate wordplay and cultural commentary.
What we know about ‘The Death of Slim Shady’ so far
Eminem announced his 12th studio album, The Death of Slim Shady, with much fanfare.
The album, expected to drop soon, marks a significant chapter in his career as it bids farewell to his notorious alter ego.
The teaser for the album aired during the NFL Draft, and the first single, Houdini, gives a taste of the lyrical dexterity and thematic depth fans can expect.
Eminem’s use of cultural references, dark humour, and personal anecdotes in Houdini not only showcases his unmatched lyrical talent but also sets the stage for what’s to come.