One of the most inspiring and influential rappers in the game is Eminem (Marshall Mathers/Slim Shady). This is not just because of the fact he is probably the most successful Caucasian rapper of all time, but because of his amazing music in general. He was the first Caucasian rapper to gain respect amongst the members of his genre (Vanilla Ice does not count; no respect for him), and his songs grew more extensive and elaborate on each album! So, this list contains Eminem's top 5 best songs throughout his career.

Note: Opinions may differ. The songs that qualify to make this list are songs that appear on Eminem's albums and not on another artist's album. For example, songs such as "Forever" will not be seen on this list. Also, songs he made with Bad Meets Evil and other rap groups are not admitted to this list. These songs are strictly Eminem songs.

5. "Without Me"- When I listen to this song once, I want to hear it again another ten times. The beat behind the rapping is completely addicting. The song mocks many of Eminem's biggest critics at the time, including vice president Dick Cheney and his own mother. His witty lyrics are biting towards his haters, and for me, this song put The Eminem Show (2002) over the top.

4. "Mockingbird"- This song, coming off of his album Encore (2004), is honestly beautiful to this day. In this song, he addresses his daughters, Hailie and Lainie, telling them that everything will be alright. The song took the form of a lullaby as he apologizes refusely to both of his daughters for all that he and his ex-wife had put them through. He also promised in the song that everything would get better.

3. "Lose Yourself"- "Lose Yourself" is a song Eminem wrote for the movie 8 Mile and is debatably his most well known and successful song (it is a toss up between that, "When I'm Gone," and "Love the Way You Lie"). The lyrics in this song are very powerful, chronicling the life of a man on the run. His ability to tell a story is what makes this song special. When he raps about the suspense of needing to get away, it puts the listener on the edge of their seat every time.

2. "The Real Slim Shady"- The reviews of this song are mixed. This song came off The Marshall Mathers LP in 2000, and with this song, you either love it or hate it. This song is quite similar to "Without Me" except it has an even catchier beat. Just note that this song is a complete satire that pokes fun at many different aspects of Hollywood, including mainstream pop music, awards shows, and boy bands. The song's chorus is also telling everyone who idolizes him and wants to become just like him, to be themselves. "I'm Slim Shady. Yes, I'm the real Shady. All you other Slim Shady's are just imitating, so won't the real Slim Shady please stand up."

1. "Like Toy Soldiers"- This song, off of the album Encore (2004) is my favorite, and, in my opinion, the best for many reasons. This song was Eminem's way of making a truce between him and all of his enemies and explaining to the listeners what has been happening over the years. The song is very stongly worded, well written, and the lyrics are very personal to him. You can tell when he raps this song that he means business, and he is being sincere. The drum roll in the background is amazing and fits the song perfectly. Overall, this song is his best.


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