35 Best Eminem Songs EVER

Marshall Mathers, Eminem, Slim Shady – whatever you call him, Eminem’s discography is one of rap’s most influential. We’ve compiled the 35 best songs Eminem has put out throughout his famous career.

1. Without Me

Song year: 2002

What other song could start such a list? “Without Me” is arguably the biggest hit that Eminem has put out, with more than a billion listens on some streaming platforms. Solidly cementing his place in popular culture, “Without Me” talks about how well Mathers was sweeping the rap industry in the early 2000s.

Condemning the many attempts to censor him by radio stations and MTV, the song discusses how empty the rap game was without him. Insulting a number of his contemporaries and his mother, Mathers continues to strengthen his reputation of taking shots in every bar.

The music video proves quite the spectacle as well. With a few Batman references and a gratuitous number of crotch shots, Eminem stops a child from listening to his music, pointing out the parental advisory sticker. Whether you love or hate Shady, there’s a high chance you know every word to this song from the popularity alone.

2. ‘Till I Collapse

Song year: 2002

One of a handful of songs that can almost match “Without Me’s” popularity, “‘Till I Collapse” is an inspirational anthem. Released in 2002, this track features the late Nate Dogg. Also on the track is an almost-direct sample of the drums from Queen’s “We Will Rock You.”

With an addictive, hard-hitting beat and an aggressive flow, this track is one of the highest energies that Mathers has in his discography. Naming off his favorite musicians, Mathers lists himself and admits that he’s unoffended when others leave his name off their own.

The “full-blown attack” of this song is an incredible hype-fest that you simply can’t sit still to. You can find this track in every workout playlist and anywhere someone needs inspiration.

3. Stan

Song year: 2000

Stan serves as a calling card that helps to show how introspective and emotional Shady can get.

“Stan” tells the story of an obsessive fan that tracks nearly every move Eminem makes. Told as narration over several different letters, the fan – Stan – admits to changing his appearance and attitude to match Eminem’s. Growing increasingly angry as Eminem fails to write him back, he eventually goes berserk, kidnaps his girlfriend, and commits murder-suicide.

As the track ends, Eminem finally gets around to writing Stan back, showing genuine interest in the man’s girlfriend and little brother. Including an autograph, some advice, and words of encouragement, Eminem puts two and two together and realizes that Stan is the person he saw on the news after the fan’s murder-suicide.

One of the heavier and more emotional tracks in Shady’s discography, the song remains enormous in popular culture. More than 20 years later, many still use the term “Stan” to mean a diehard fan of something because of this song’s impact.

4. The Real Slim Shady

Song year: 2000

There’s only one Slim Shady, and this song is certain to make sure the world knows that. Eminem calls out the stigma against him for being a white rapper in a dominantly non-white industry and calls out the many imitators of his style and flow.

Through the song, Shady insults a number of the biggest names in the early-2000s music industry – dunking on Will Smith, Britney Spears, Fred Durst, and more, Shady stands up tall against the many critics against him at the time.

5. The Way I Am

Song year: 2000

Keeping up with his declarations of identity, Shady refuses to apologize for who he is and what he says. “The Way I Am” helps to enforce Shady’s refusal to bow to what anyone wants, from his family and friends to his most devoted fans.

Accepting whatever label people want to give him, Shady puts his hands up and gives up. Insulting parents for blaming musicians when their kids turn violent instead of looking at themself, he accepts the blame for resulting tragedies. “The Way I Am” shows an unapologetic, Shady and even went certified platinum in 2018.

6. My Name Is

1999

One of Shady’s earliest hits, “My Name Is” is one of the most recognizable tracks in modern music. Whether you’ve meant to or not, you’ve likely heard this track dozens of times. The track also has some of the first insults towards his mother, which would prove to be a trademark of Shady and one he would later solve with his mother.

Poking fun at politicians, Marilyn Manson, and his mentor Dr. Dre, My Name Is would make any list of Shady’s top songs. Just as self-deprecating as it is insulting to his contemporaries, this jam is easily one of Shady’s most recognizable.

7. Infinite

Song year: 1996

Speaking of early tracks, “Infinite” is one that we shouldn’t overlook. The self-titled track from Eminem’s debut album is one that many, unfortunately, aren’t aware of. Coming well before his fame would hit, the Eminem on “Infinite” is a completely different sound from what we would come to know.

Incredibly lyrical and featuring an old-school beat, “Infinite” is the type of track you put on late and night and just vibe to. You can see the start of one of the most lyrical rappers to live on this track, and it’s easy to see why he blew up as quickly as he did.

8. Cleanin’ Out My Closet

Song year: 2002

Speaking of hits, “Cleanin’ Out My Closet” is undoubtedly one of the most notable tracks in Eminem’s lengthy discography. One of the primary tracks in the long-standing theme of standing against his neglectful mother, Closet is a track everyone knows the hook to.

Though they would eventually reconcile, much of Shady’s lyrics strike out against his mother. Using this song to clean out the trauma and negativity that he has towards his mother, it’s a strong condemnation for certain. Admitting that he doesn’t want to hurt his mother, Shady confesses that he has to say these things now before they tear him up.

9. Not Afraid

Song year: 2010

Though he’s one of the most notable musicians nowadays, there’s no denying that Eminem has lived a hard life. Battling abuse, neglect, grief, and addiction, there’s been plenty of times Shady could’ve just given up.

Not Afraid helps to bring that to bear and show his strength in the face of these trials. Stating that he knows he had to go through the dark to get to where he could get better, he tells others that might struggle to follow his lead.

Inspirational, emotional, and uplifting, Not Afraid shows Eminem stepping back from the ledge he used to stand on. This track deserves its place on any top list.

10. My Dad’s Gone Crazy

Song year: 2002

Of course, not every song will show that same encouragement. “My Dad’s Gone Crazy” is one of the more bizarre songs in Shady’s discography. The song features his then-child daughter Hailie, this early track shows Eminem embracing the reputation he was earning as a wildcard.

In its way, the song also shows an adorable bond between father and daughter. Highlighting being there for his daughter, Eminem still uses the song as a chance to strike out against critics.

11. Just Lose It

Song year: 2004

“Just Lose It” stands in nearly every top ten list and is another example of one of the zanier tracks in Eminem’s discography. The music video is an especially critical laugh-fest, mocking everyone from Michael Jackson to MC Hammer and Peewee Herman.

The song peaks at Eminem making fun of himself, especially for his performance in 8 Mile. A club favorite, “Just Lose It” is one of the biggest songs of the 2000s.

12. Like Toy Soldiers

Song year: 2004

Not everything that Shady has released is a strong-handed critique against his critics. At times, Eminem has shown a much more introspective and vulnerable side on the track. “Like Toy Soldiers” is easily one of the most notable of the tracks that fit this description.

One of the main driving points of this track is Eminem’s beef with Ja Rule, who insulted Eminem’s daughter on a track. Leading to a breakdown in an attempt to help make peace between Ja and 50 Cent, this song shows us a full ending of his part in that feud.

Making peace with enemies and critics, “Like Toy Soldiers” is a song that seems to stand against Eminem’s battling reputation. Calling for harmony and friendship in a rivalry-heavy industry, the track is a lovely milestone in Eminem’s career.

13. Mockingbird

Song year: 2004

Staying with his more emotional side, “Mockingbird” is a beautiful ballad to Eminem’s daughter. Calling her his “little soldier,” Eminem apologizes for his absence in her life and tries to explain that he’s attempting to give her the life he wasn’t able to have.

“Mockingbird” sends a loving message to his daughter and niece – showing a more family-centric side of the rapper.

14. Lose Yourself

Song year: 2002

Written for the movie that shows Eminem’s origins, 8 Mile, “Lose Yourself” would quickly become one of the most popular songs in his discography. With an intro that’s proven to be one of the most quoted and sampled bits in music history, “Lose Yourself” has billions of listens and is one of the more remembered parts of the movie.

Whether you like Eminem or not, you know this song. Practically inescapable in popular culture – especially in the mid-2000s – Lose Yourself is easily one of Shady’s greatest tracks.

15. When I’m Gone

Song year: 2005

Another emotional track, this song dropped as a single on the same day that Eminem’s first greatest hits compilation album was released. Though the song received somewhat mixed reviews, the track got a large amount of attention and hype regardless.

Debuting at first in Australia, fourth in the UK, and eighth in the US, “When I’m Gone” was originally meant to be the last song before the start of a hiatus. The track discusses his family falling apart and his need to pay attention to them – serving as an encore to Mockingbird.

16. 3 A.M.

Song year: 2009

But not every track is going to be emotional. Eminem has plenty of intense and violent songs, and “3 A.M.” is one of the strongest examples.

Telling the story of a drug-fueled murder spree, “3 A.M.” is a high-energy horrific track. Discussing murder, sexual deviation, and heavy drug use, it’s more than earned its parental advisory label.

17. My Mom

Song year: 2009

Sticking with the theme of dissing his mother, “My Mom” tells the story of a childhood with a drug-addicted mother. Focusing on prescription pills, the brass-heavy song is a huge banger despite the content. Stating his drug addiction might be hereditary, Shady flat out admits that he knows his listeners might have gotten tired of hearing about his mom.

18. We Made You

Song year: 2009

Eminem’s “We Made You” sends it back to the early 2000s despite releasing at the turn of the decade. Invoking popular culture icons and mocking each of them – especially himself – this is one of the more “Shady” tracks, even hitting on politicians at times.

19. Love The Way You Lie

Song year: 2010

Scooting on back to his more emotional tracks, Eminem had more than a few collaborations around the turn of the decade. “Love The Way You Lie” brings Rihanna’s voice to the track, making a lovesick anthem for broken hearts. With billions of listens, this is easily one of the most iconic tracks in Shady’s discography.

20. Almost Famous

Song year: 2010

The 2010 album Recovery marked a strong point in Eminem’s career, helping to show his rejection of drugs without abandoning his image. “Almost Famous” tells the story of Eminem going from a hoodlum to one of the greatest rappers to ever hit the studio. Aggressive, angry, and intense, this track holds undeniable energy.

21. Rap God

Song year: 2013

That same energy continues through a few years later on “Rap God,” a song that hit hard enough to still be one of his most popular. One of the leading singles of The Marshall Mathers LP 2, Eminem brings one of the fastest flows in the industry onto this titanic track. Insulting and flaunting at lightning speed, “Rap God” is an addictively quick banger.

22. Killshot

Song year: 2018

Eminem’s origins are in battle rap, and most people that diss him in music end up serving as reminders. In 2018, Machine Gun Kelly found that out the hard way. MGK was targeted with “Killshot” after dissing Eminem in a song titled “Rap Devil.”

The track picks apart “Rap Devil,” pointing out inaccuracies while Eminem puts MGK to death. It’s worth saying that the industry responded well. “Killshot” was received much better from listeners compared to “Rap Devil,” and many consider MGK’s music to have deteriorated in following releases.

23. Beautiful

Song year: 2009

Eminem has more than a few introspective tracks, and “Beautiful” belongs near the top of the list. Discussing his depression, difficulty with addiction, and coping through music, Beautiful is an anthem of self-love for everyone.

Encouraging fans never to forget they’re beautiful, the track brings a message of remembering your self-worth no matter what other people say.

24. Godzilla (feat. Juice WRLD)

Song year: 2020

Released shortly after the death of Juice WRLD, “Godzilla” is a quick hype track with undeniable vibes. Bringing a hard, quick flow, this track harkens back to “Rap God” with lightning-fast bars. Raising to a massive post-mortem hit, “Godzilla” is a huge favorite for Juice and Shady fans alike, dedicated to Jarad “Juice WRLD” Higgins’ memory.

25. Elevator

Song year:2009

Telling the story of his fame and rise to popularity, “Elevator” talks about how Shady never believed he would be where he is now. Talking about a conversation with his late friend Proof, Shady reflects on his fame and how he got to where he is. Similar to his earlier style, “Elevator” is both a flex and a celebration of his fame.

26. Music Box

Song year: 2009

Similar to “3 A.M.,” “Music Box” is a haunting and horrific track focused on violence and murder. Serving as a reference to several horror classics, including Edgar Allan Poe’s “Tell-Tale Heart,” Shady refers to himself as the modern-day Jack the Ripper. Completely fictional, the return to the Shady style makes this a good bridge between his styles.

27. Sing For The Moment

Song year: 2002

Landing amongst his more encouraging tracks, “Sing for the Moment” is often put in the same category as songs like Lose Yourself. Striking out against controlling parents and hyping up rebellious youth, Eminem cheers on anyone struggling. Embracing his image, Eminem inspires his listeners to live their lives to the fullest with this track.

28. Cinderella Man

Song year: 2010

Following up Almost Famous, “Cinderella Man” is a self-congratulating track from 2010’s Recovery. Hyping himself up and dictating how influential he’s been on the game, “Cinderella Man” brings another stomp-clap beat as Eminem goes so far as to condemn his records as inferior to his current work.

29. Brain Damage

Song year:1999

But to get the hit of a song like Cinderella Man, songs like “Brain Damage” have to be rocked first. Making a comedic track out of a childhood of abuse and violence, the track highlights bullies and neglectful guardians. Eventually striking back, the gruesome track leads to the murder of a bully and Shady lifting his brain out of his skull.

30. Guilty Conscience

Song year: 2000

As far as having an angel on your shoulder goes, you might not want Shady there. In a skit-song mashup, “Guilty Conscience” shows Dr. Dre and Shady as the angel and devil on various people’s shoulders. Repeatedly encouraging violence, this comedic concept is a unique banger even in his discography.

31. 25 To Life

Song year: 2010

Similar to tracks like Common’s “I Used To Love H.E.R.,” this track is more than what it sounds like. With verses that sound like a breakup track, the bitter and aggressive song is revealed to be directed towards rap and the rap industry. Calling for a return of control over his life, this heartbreaking track helps show how overwhelming life in the starlight can be.

32. You’re Never Over

Song year: 2010

The turn of the decade saw Eminem releasing several personal, anti-suicide tracks. You’re Never Over is one of the most notable of these, stating that he wouldn’t give in to his urges. Bringing a sung chorus from Shady, the song is dedicated to his late friend Proof, one of the greatest positive influences in his life as he sings about how that influence would never end.

33. Soldier

Song year: 2002

Another enthusiastically encouraging track, “Soldier” is an anthem towards self-perseverance and strength. Stating a refusal to give in and purposefully standing against opposition no matter what, Soldier invokes his legal troubles and struggles in life. With a deep beat and an aggressive flow, Soldier is one of the more confrontational tracks in Shady’s discography.

34. Won’t Back Down

Song year: 2010

One can find a similar message on “Won’t Back Down” eight years later, bringing P!nk for a celebration of strength. Bringing life to the club, this danceable track puts Shady’s music front and center, even going so far as to demand fans keep quiet while his music is playing so everyone can hear.

35. No Love

Song year: 2010

At the turn of the decade, Lil’ Wayne and Eminem released a pair of songs that would become two of the most influential of either’s careers. Easily one of the biggest songs of the decade, No Love is an anti-bullying track with a video that shows a young boy standing up against a trio of physically-abusive classmates.

Top Eminem Songs, Final Thoughts

Eminem’s music has had an incredible impact on the music industry, from hip hop to every other genre imaginable. With an ongoing career, there’s a great chance this list will have some additions by the end of the current decade.

Did we miss your favorite Shady track? Feel free to let us know what tracks deserve to have a spot on this list, and be sure to browse our site for more!