Studio Albums
The Marshall Mathers LP (2000)
- Release Date: May 23, 2000
- US Sales: 11,000,000
- Reason for Ranking: This album is considered Eminem’s masterpiece, featuring iconic tracks like "Stan" and "The Real Slim Shady." It’s renowned for its raw and provocative content, earning critical acclaim and solidifying Eminem’s status as a top-tier rapper.
Recovery (2010)
- Release Date: June 18, 2010
- US Sales: 4,867,000
- Reason for Ranking: Recovery marked a significant comeback for Eminem, with themes of resilience and personal growth. Hits like "Not Afraid" and "Love the Way You Lie" were widely praised, making the album a commercial and critical success.
Kamikaze (2018)
- Release Date: August 31, 2018
- US Sales: 493,000
- Reason for Ranking: Released as a surprise, Kamikaze addressed criticisms of Revival and showcased Eminem’s sharp lyrical skills on tracks like "Lucky You" and "The Ringer".
The Death of Slim Shady (2024)
- Release Date: July 12, 2024
- US Sales: New release, projected over 1 million streams in first week
- Reason for Ranking: Eminem’s latest release is a conceptual album exploring the end of his Slim Shady persona. It has already broken streaming records and features critical tracks like "Somebody Save Me" and "Houdini".
Music to Be Murdered By & MTBMB Side B (2020)
- Release Date: January 17, 2020 (Side B: December 18, 2020)
- US Sales: 1,100,000
- Reason for Ranking: This album explores dark themes and features technical brilliance on tracks like "Godzilla" and "Darkness," receiving mixed but notable reviews.
The Slim Shady LP & EP (1999)
- Release Date: February 23, 1999 (EP December 10, 1997)
- US Sales: 5,433,000
- Reason for Ranking: This album introduced Eminem’s alter ego, Slim Shady, with humor and controversy, establishing him as a significant force in hip-hop with tracks like "My Name Is".
The Eminem Show (2002)
- Release Date: May 26, 2002
- US Sales: 10,600,000
- Reason for Ranking: One of Eminem’s best-selling albums, it features a mix of personal and social commentary with hits like "Without Me" and "Cleanin' Out My Closet".
Relapse & Relapse: Refill (2009)
- Release Date: May 15, 2009 (Refill: December 21, 2009)
- US Sales: 2,363,000
- Reason for Ranking: Relapse marked Eminem’s return after a hiatus, with tracks like "Crack a Bottle" and "Beautiful." It received mixed reviews but showcased his lyrical talent.
The Marshall Mathers LP 2 (2013)
- Release Date: November 5, 2013
- US Sales: 2,244,000
- Reason for Ranking: This sequel album features tracks like "Rap God" and "The Monster," balancing nostalgia with new themes and earning positive reviews.
Revival (2017)
- Release Date: December 15, 2017
- US Sales: 435,000
- Reason for Ranking: Revival tackled social and political issues but received mixed reviews for its production and lyrical content.
Encore (2004)
- Release Date: November 12, 2004
- US Sales: 5,343,000
- Reason for Ranking: Despite featuring hits like "Just Lose It" and "Mockingbird," Encore was seen as a step down from previous works and received mixed reviews.
Collaborative Albums
Devil's Night (2001) - D12
- Release Date: June 19, 2001
- US Sales: 2,000,000
- Reason for Ranking: Featuring hits like "Purple Pills," this album showcased Eminem’s chemistry with D12 and was both a commercial and critical success.
8 Mile Soundtrack (2002)
- Release Date: October 29, 2002
- US Sales: 4,900,000
- Reason for Ranking: Including the Oscar-winning "Lose Yourself," the soundtrack was a critical and commercial success, complementing the film’s narrative.
Invasion: Shady Times (2002) - DJ Green Lantern
- Release Date: November 21, 2002
- US Sales: Unknown
- Reason for Ranking: This mixtape is notable for being the first official release by Shady Records' DJ Green Lantern. It predominantly features diss tracks aimed at Benzino and Ja Rule, reflecting the height of the feud between Shady Records and these artists. The mixtape captures a pivotal moment in hip-hop history.
Invasion Part II Conspiracy Theory (2003) - DJ Green Lantern
- Release Date: April 15, 2003
- US Sales: Unknown
- Reason for Ranking: This sequel builds on the momentum of the first mixtape with even more diss tracks targeting Benzino and Ja Rule. As Shady Records' official DJ, Green Lantern continues to play a crucial role in documenting and fueling one of hip-hop's most famous rivalries, making this release significant in the genre's narrative.
Hell: The Sequel (2011) - Bad Meets Evil
- Release Date: June 14, 2011
- US Sales: 234,000
- Reason for Ranking: This collaboration with Royce da 5'9" featured strong tracks like "Lighters" and "Fast Lane," showcasing their lyrical synergy.
Eminem Presents: The Re-Up (2006)
- Release Date: December 5, 2006
- US Sales: 1,051,000
- Reason for Ranking: This compilation album highlighted Shady Records’ roster, featuring tracks like "You Don’t Know".
Shady XV (2014)
- Release Date: November 24, 2014
- US Sales: 290,000
- Reason for Ranking: Celebrating Shady Records' 15th anniversary, Shady XV included both new tracks and classic hits, serving as a testament to the label’s impact.
D12 World (2004) - D12
- Release Date: April 27, 2004
- US Sales: 323,649
- Reason for Ranking: With hits like "My Band," D12 World continued the success of Devil’s Night, blending humor with sharp lyricism.
Southpaw Soundtrack (2015)
- Release Date: July 24, 2015
- US Sales: 91,000
- Reason for Ranking: Curated by Eminem, this soundtrack features a mix of artists and highlights his influence beyond his own music.
Compilation Albums
Shady Classics: Mixtape (2014)
- Release Date: November 22, 2014
- Summary: "Shady Classics" is a 66-track mixtape by Eminem and DJ Whoo Kid, released to promote the "Shady XV" compilation. The mixtape includes a mix of Eminem's hits, fan favorites, and rare tracks. It features collaborations with artists like 50 Cent, Dr. Dre, Yelawolf, and D12. The mixtape was made available for free download and streaming, offering fans a comprehensive collection of Shady Records' legacy and Eminem's prolific career.
Curtain Call: The Hits (2005) - Eminem
- Release Date: December 6, 2005
- US Sales: 3,400,000
- Reason for Ranking: This first greatest hits compilation includes iconic tracks such as "My Name Is," "Stan," and "Lose Yourself," as well as new songs like "When I'm Gone." It highlights Eminem's impact on hip-hop with his provocative lyrics and unique style, solidifying his legacy in the music industry.
Curtain Call 2 (2022) - Eminem
- Release Date: August 5, 2022
- US Sales: 500,000
- Reason for Ranking: A sequel to the first greatest hits album, "Curtain Call 2" spans the latter part of Eminem's career, featuring hits like "Love the Way You Lie," "Rap God," and "Godzilla." It demonstrates his continued relevance and evolution in the rap scene, blending collaborations with artists like Rihanna and Juice WRLD.
The Singles (2003)
- Release Date: 2003
- Summary: This box set compilation album features Eminem's greatest hits from his earlier works, including singles from "The Slim Shady LP," "The Marshall Mathers LP," "The Eminem Show," and the "8 Mile" soundtrack. The collection also includes bonus tracks and unreleased songs, providing a comprehensive overview of Eminem's rise to fame and his impact on the rap industry. Notable tracks include "My Name Is," "Stan," "Lose Yourself," and "The Real Slim Shady."
Fortnite Radio (2024)
- Release Date: March 1, 2024
- Summary: This limited edition vinyl compilation features Eminem's hits as heard on the in-game "Fortnite Radio" from the popular video game Fortnite. The album includes 10 tracks, blending both classic hits and recent releases. The collection debuted at No. 8 on the Billboard Vinyl Albums chart and No. 19 on the Billboard Top Album Sales chart, marking a unique collaboration between Eminem and Fortnite. The vinyl comes in a red and blue split color, adding to its collector's appeal.
The Vinyl LPs (2015)
Release Date: March 23, 2015
Summary: This limited edition box set collects Eminem's entire Interscope catalog on vinyl for the first time. The set includes 10 LPs, featuring his seminal works such as "The Slim Shady LP," "The Marshall Mathers LP," "The Eminem Show," "8 Mile Soundtrack," "Encore," "Curtain Call: The Hits," "Eminem Presents: The Re-Up," "Relapse," "Recovery," and "The Marshall Mathers LP 2." Each album is pressed on high-quality vinyl, making this a must-have for collectors and fans of Eminem's music.
Underground Albums
Infinite (1996)
- Release Date: November 12, 1996
- US Sales: 1,000
- Reason for Ranking: Eminem’s debut album, Infinite, failed to make a significant impact but laid the groundwork for his future success.
Soul Intent (1995) - Soul Intent
- Release Date: February 25, 1995
- Summary: "Soul Intent" is the self-titled EP by the hip-hop group Soul Intent, which included members Eminem (then known as M&M), Proof (then known as Maximum), Chaos Kid, and others. The EP was released only on cassette tape via Mashin' Duck Records and featured early collaborations and performances by Eminem. This release was notable for including the tracks "Fuckin' Backstabber" and "Biterphobia," showcasing Eminem's early lyrical style and flow. The EP served as a precursor to Eminem's solo career, which took off with the release of his debut album "Infinite" a year later.
Still in the Bassmint (1993) - Soul Intent
- Release Date: 1993
- Summary: Still in the Bassmint is a pivotal album from Soul Intent, recorded in 1993. The title reflects the group's humble recording environment, often laying down tracks in basements and makeshift studios. The album includes early collaborations between Eminem and Proof, showcasing their lyrical skills and chemistry. Distributed locally, Still in the Bassmint played a crucial role in the group’s development and their growing influence in Detroit’s underground hip-hop scene.
The Most Suckaish (1992) - Bassmint Productions
- Release Date: 1992
- Summary: The Most Suckaish is an underground album by (Soul Intent), released in 1992. This project further solidified the group’s reputation in Detroit's rap scene, with Eminem and Proof leading the charge. The album features aggressive and battle-heavy lyrics, typical of the era's underground hip-hop. It was circulated on cassette tapes among local audiences, continuing to build the foundation for Eminem and Proof’s future careers.
Bassmint 91 (1991) - Bassmint Productions
- Release Date: 1991
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Summary: "Bassmint 91" is a project from Eminem and his early group Bassmint Productions. Recorded in 1991, this EP showcases the early work of a young Eminem before his rise to fame. The tracks on "Bassmint 91" reflect the group's efforts to carve out a unique sound in the burgeoning Detroit hip-hop scene. This project is a rare and insightful look into the formative years of Eminem's career and the roots of his musical journey.
Steppin' onto the Scene (1990) - Bassmint Productions
- Release Date: 1990
- Summary: Steppin' onto the Scene is an early album by the hip-hop group (Soul Intent), which included members such as Eminem (then known as M&M) and Proof (then known as Maximum). This album was one of the group's first attempts to break into the Detroit hip-hop scene, featuring raw, unpolished tracks that showcased their emerging talent. The album was distributed locally on cassette and helped establish the group’s presence in the underground rap community.
New Jacks EP (1988) - MC Double M & DJ Butter Fingers
- Release Date: 1988
- Summary: The "New Jacks EP" is a very early project by, then known as MC Double M, and DJ Butter Fingers. Recorded when Eminem was just 16, this EP features early tracks that highlight his budding talent and lyrical prowess. Although the EP was never commercially released, it includes tracks such as "Irv-Ski vs New Jacks," "Eat It," and "Blown Away." The EP is considered a rare and valuable piece of Eminem's early career.
Eminem and Bassmint Studio Productions 1988-1991
- Release Date: 2003
- Summary: "Eminem and Bassmint Studio Productions 1988-1991" is a collection of unreleased tracks and demos from Eminem's early years, featuring his work with Bassmint Productions. Notably, the controversial tracks "Foolish Pride" and "So Many Styles," recorded in 1990, were later unearthed by The Source magazine in 2003 during an ongoing feud with Eminem. These tracks were used in an attempt to portray him negatively, highlighting the tension between the artist and the magazine. This collection showcases Eminem's formative efforts, providing insight into his developing talent before his rise to fame.
Unofficial Archive Release Albums
Straight from the Lab (2003)
- Release Date: November 7, 2003
- Summary: "Straight from the Lab" is an extended play (EP) by Eminem featuring unreleased tracks and songs that were leaked online. It includes tracks like "Monkey See, Monkey Do," and "We As Americans."
Straight from the Lab Part 2 (2011)
- Release Date: 2011
- Summary: "Straight from the Lab Part 2" is a mixtape consisting partly of unreleased songs from the shelved 2007 album, King Mathers. It includes tracks like "The Apple," "Things Get Worse," and "Echo."
Don't Call Me Marshall (2003)
- Release Date: 2003
- Summary: This unofficial compilation album features a collection of Eminem's tracks, some of which were remixes or collaborations. It includes songs like "Say My Name," "Go to Sleep," and "Superman (Cry Me a River Remix)." The album showcases Eminem's versatility and collaboration with artists like 50 Cent, Notorious B.I.G., and Jay-Z.
Eminem Is Back (2004)
- Release Date: 2004
- Summary: This compilation album, released unofficially in the Netherlands, includes some of Eminem's popular tracks and rare songs. It was released as a follow-up to capitalize on Eminem's growing popularity during the early 2000s.
Raw & Uncut (2005)
- Release Date: 2005
- Summary: This unofficial compilation features a selection of unreleased tracks and rare collaborations by Eminem. It includes freestyle sessions, demos, and tracks that didn't make it onto his studio albums.
The Shady Project (2005)
- Release Date: 2005
- Summary: This mixtape is an unofficial release containing a mix of Eminem’s freestyles, unreleased tracks, and collaborations. It provides fans with a deeper look into his creative process and features contributions from other Shady Records artists.
Get the Guns (2005)
- Release Date: 2005
- Summary: "Get the Guns" is an unofficial mixtape that includes rare tracks, remixes, and collaborations by Eminem. It features some of his harder-hitting and aggressive tracks, displaying his lyrical prowess and controversial style.
Straight from the Vault (2011)
- Release Date: 2011
- Summary: This unofficial compilation album features unreleased tracks that were recorded during sessions for Eminem’s previous albums. It includes a variety of songs showcasing different phases of his career.
Honorable Mention | Movie
8 Mile (2002)
- Release Date: November 8, 2002
- Summary: "8 Mile" is a drama film starring Eminem in his acting debut. The movie is set in Detroit and follows the story of Jimmy Smith Jr., also known as B-Rabbit, a young aspiring rapper trying to make a name for himself in the competitive world of hip-hop. The film explores themes of poverty, family struggles, and the pursuit of dreams against all odds. "8 Mile" features powerful performances, including those by Kim Basinger, Brittany Murphy, and Mekhi Phifer. The movie is well-known for its intense rap battle scenes and the hit song "Lose Yourself," which won the Academy Award for Best Original Song. Directed by Curtis Hanson, "8 Mile" received critical acclaim for its gritty portrayal of life in Detroit and Eminem's compelling performance.
Honorable Mention | TV Show
The Slim Shady Show
- Release Date: September 15, 2000
- Summary: "The Slim Shady Show" is an animated series created by Eminem, focusing on the fictional adventures of his alter-egos: Slim Shady, Marshall Mathers, and Ken Kaniff. Directed by Mark Brooks and Peter Gilstrap, the series initially aired online and was later released on DVD. Each episode is approximately five minutes long and features explicit content, earning it an 18+ classification. The series is known for its dark humor and satirical take on Eminem's lyrics and persona, with Eminem voicing most of the characters alongside contributions from Paul Rosenberg and Xzibit.
