Eminem released the deluxe edition of “The Death of Slim Shady” (Coup de Grâce) on Friday (September 13). Titled The Death of Slim Shady (Coup de Grâce): Expanded Mourner’s Edition, the project comes with four bonus tracks, one of which is a 24-second skit from Interscope Vice President Steve Berman, and another from the original album. Fuel” remix. The last two songs are “Like My S###” and “Kyrie & Luka” starring 2 Chainz.
Those anxiously awaiting an alternative version of this chart-topping entry were sorely disappointed, not least by the lack of The Alchemist’s pacing. When announcing the expanded version of The Mourner, Eminem posted a trailer on his Instagram page, in which The Alchemist plays a convenience store worker. Stans was immediately delighted, thinking they would get the cooperation of some alchemists. Needless to say, they were disappointed when the acclaimed hip-hop producer didn’t appear on a song.
“Eminem either loves to prank us or hates The Alchemist because he can’t possibly put him anywhere and not rap about his work,” one person tweeted, while another said, “Yo @AE Minam, if your stupid ass made a whole damn trailer for “The Alchemist” just for a remix of a song, bro, you could have kept the damn deluxe version and not have that ###.
Another pointed out the lack of 50 Cent and Dr. Dre features, writing: “Next time you release an album please give me all the love and respect and don’t have an ‘exclusive’ digital album with extra tracks that people will buy These albums are just to see the same tracks available to everyone 2 months later. Also, where are the Alchemist tracks and Dre x 50’s Em features?
There are no Alchemist songs on Eminem Deluxe Edition pic.twitter.com/Ij0UM5y8fB
— Noah Newcomb (@nnewcombmedia) September 13, 2024
Coup de Grace marked a dramatic shift in Eminem’s career as he symbolically laid to rest his evil alter ego Slim Shady. Known for his controversial, rebellious and often outrageous image, Slim Shady has been a central figure in Eminem’s music since the late 1990s. Throughout the project, Eminem has explored themes of self-reflection, maturity, and character consequences that both enhanced his fame and complicated his legacy. The title “Coup de Grace” refers to the final blow or decisive action, emphasizing Eminem’s intention to close the dark chapter of his artistic practice.
Musically, songs like “Houdini” and “Tobey” set the tone for the album, with Eminem addressing the complexities of fame, personal growth and the pressure of maintaining an iconic image. The album feels like a farewell to Slim Shady’s chaotic and defiant spirit, while allowing Marshall Mathers – the man behind the character – to shine more fully. Fans and critics were divided over the decision, with some praising the move as an improvement while others missing the raw edge Slim Shady brought to Eminem’s world.
