The Marshall Mathers LP

“The Marshall Mathers LP” is the third studio album by American rapper Eminem, released on May 23, 2000, by Aftermath Entertainment and Interscope Records12. The album was produced mostly by Dr. Dre and Eminem, along with the Bass Brothers1.

The album features more introspective lyricism, including Eminem’s thoughts on his rise from rags to riches, the criticism of his music, and his estrangement from his family and wife1. A significant work, it incorporates various styles, while also featuring songs with guest appearances by artists such as Sticky Fingaz, Snoop Dogg, and Nate Dogg1.

The album debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, staying atop for eight consecutive weeks1. It was a significant commercial success compared to the release of “The Slim Shady LP” just the previous year, selling 1.78 million copies in its first week, which made it among the fastest-selling studio albums in the United States1.

The album produced the singles “The Real Slim Shady”, “The Way I Am”, “Stan”, “I’m Back” and "B**ch Please II"1. Among other publications, Rolling Stone named it the best album of 20001. “The Marshall Mathers LP” has been included in numerous all-time lists and is widely regarded as Eminem’s greatest album1. It has sold 25 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling albums of all time, and is certified 11× platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA)1.

It was nominated for Album of the Year and won Best Rap Album at the 2001 Grammy Awards, while “The Real Slim Shady” won Best Rap Solo Performance1. The Marshall Mathers LP 2, the album’s sequel, was released in 20131.

Despite the album’s success, it was surrounded by significant controversy upon its release, due to lyrics that were considered violent, homophobic, and misogynistic, as well as a reference to the Columbine High School massacre1. Future second lady Lynne Cheney criticized the lyrics at a United States Senate hearing, while the Canadian government considered refusing Eminem’s entry into the country1.