"The Marshall Mathers LP 2" is the eighth studio album by American rapper Eminem, released on November 5, 2013, through Shady Records, Aftermath Entertainment, and Interscope Records. It serves as a sequel to his third studio album, The Marshall Mathers LP, and is notable for not featuring production from Dr. Dre, who acted as an executive producer alongside Rick Rubin.
Eminem conceived the idea of a sequel after recording tracks that evoked the style of his earlier work. He aimed to incorporate "retro, vintage" sounds, blending influences from old-school hip hop and arena rock, particularly drawing inspiration from artists like the Beastie Boys and LL Cool J. The album was one of the most anticipated releases of 2013, with a reveal during the MTV Video Music Awards.
The lead single, "Berzerk," was released along with the album announcement, followed by "Survival," "Rap God," and "The Monster," featuring Rihanna, which topped the Billboard Hot 100. The album debuted at number one on the US Billboard 200, selling over 792,000 copies in its first week, and later received quadruple platinum certification by the RIAA.
Critics praised Eminem's technical skills and the album's production, marking a positive shift in reception compared to his previous three albums. It garnered multiple year-end accolades and earned Eminem a record sixth Grammy Award for Best Rap Album at the 2015 Grammy Awards.
The album features collaborations with several artists, including Rihanna, Nate Ruess from Fun., and Kendrick Lamar. Tracks like "The Monster" and "Headlights" showcase these partnerships, contributing to the album's diverse sound.
The album cover depicts Eminem's childhood home in a dilapidated state, paralleling the original The Marshall Mathers LP cover. Following its release, the house caught fire and was later demolished, adding a poignant layer to the album's legacy.
Overall, The Marshall Mathers LP 2 stands as a significant entry in Eminem's discography, blending nostalgia with a modern touch, and showcasing his evolution as an artist.
