Eminem's 2002 album "The Eminem Show" goes Diamond

By The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

The past two years have been incredible for Eminem, as he did the impossible. Following his 2004 album, Eminem took a break from recording music. His break was so long, many assumed Em was done with music.

Five years was how long Eminem stayed away from the game. He returned with his Relapse album, which poked fun at his battle with drugs. The album was met with negative and mixed reviews. But, last year, Eminem corrected his mistakes.

Recovery was considered by many to be the top hip hop album of 2010. The album was the highest-selling album of 2010. Many who had written Eminem off following Relapse were now eating their words and ready to crown him king. Months following the release of Recovery and Eminem is still receiving praise for the album.

Nine years ago, Eminem solidified his legacy when he released The Eminem Show. The album was a sharp turn from his humorous lyrics on his previous albums. Eminem opened the world to exactly why he jokes the way he does and is"shady." It was after this album when people realized Eminem had a problem and that he was much more than a white boy rapper. The Eminem Show was critically-acclaimed and considered by many as one of the best albums of 2002.

Even after Eminem released more albums and moved on, The Eminem Show continued to sell. During the 2002 timeframe, The Eminem Show went platinum several times over. The album continued to sell well over the past nine years. Now, Eminem has joined exclusive company as only the third rapper to have an album sell over 10 million copies. Eminem joins the likes of MC Hammer and The Notorious B.I.G. as rappers with diamond albums.