Eminem opens up about "Encore," Drug Use, and Proof's death

By The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

Since recovering, Eminem has openly discussed his past and what led to his addiction. Before his 2009 comeback, Eminem had not released an album since 2004's Encore. Most people say that album was the worst of Em's career. In the time since, he has been doing all he can to avoid that low.

When Eminem began recording Encore, he was very focused on putting together a creative album. His initial goal was to top his acclaimed The Eminem Show. But, towards the end of the album, he lost his focus. Towards the end of the album, Eminem said he would take pills, go in the studio, and goof off.

For years, Eminem had been using pills. In 2001, he rapped about this alongside D12 in "Purple Pills." At the time, his use was minor, so he joked about it. But, after the loss of his best friend, Proof, in 2006, the drug use became a way of life. Looking back on it, Eminem realizes how selfish he was because he was not the only person who missed Proof.

During Proof's funeral, Eminem said he was so high he thought the service was about him. Em feels hatred towards himself for even thinking that. He understands that Proof left behind a wife and children who loved him dearly. Still, he had to deal with his own grief and it was taking him over. Without his rock, Eminem fell to pieces. Late in 2007, Eminem made headline news when he almost died from an overdose. At the time, he had also gained a considerable amount of weight. It was then when he decided to get clean.

The result of him cleaning up was the success of his past two albums, Relapse and Recovery. Eminem officially cleaned himself up on 4/20.