Amid much anticipation for the previously delayed release of the music video for “Toby,” Eminem has finally delivered on his promise to fans. The video, out now, stars Michigan artists Big Sean and Babytron, who represent the evolving sound of Michigan rap music across generations.
Toby’s video is not finished yet – new date is Monday 8th July. Please take a look in the meantime! Sorry for the delay in 4. pic.twitter.com/wM3bttfuyW
— Marshall Mathers (@Eminem) July 5, 2024
The trio came together shortly after their feud ended, even using Toby’s artwork to hint at top three status using the popular Spider-Man meme theme – much like J. Cole and Drake recently as done in movies of the past. While fans are still debating whether Slim Shady is relevant to the times, Eminem’s verse has sparked debate as he declares he’ll always be a part of the conversation.
I’m one of those Eminem guys and I can admit that he continued to sell after his skills declined https://t.co/CAVTt6SYlP
— NobodiesHME ☃️🌍 (@BlackHeartHME) May 4, 2024
While older generations of hip-hop seem to appreciate the nostalgic value of Eminem’s raps, younger generations largely dismiss Eminem’s obsession with polysyllabic rhyme patterns and lack of political correctness and sensitivity.
“It’s a goat” 🐐 #TOBEY is out now! 🕷️ https://t.co/f7wm7IOYLZ @bigsean @_babytron #TheDeathOfSlimShady pic.twitter.com/d0z5aRItQp
— Marshall Mathers (@Eminem) July 2, 2024
Eminem tried to counter that notion, saying that he’s been around long enough to see rap change and evolve, while younger hip-hop leaders have not. However, these young fans continue to express their frustration on social media, commenting that Eminem’s music and perspective haven’t really changed or grown over time.
Oh, shush! SLIM SHADY DEATH (CRITICAL BLOW) ☠️ 7/12! pic.twitter.com/P7R6poa8Mz
— Marshall Mathers (@Eminem) July 1, 2024
The upcoming album, The Death of Slim Shady, is all about embodying this narrative, but so far, it doesn’t seem like that’s the chess game Em wants. For the narrative change to be successful, Em may have to focus on more introspective and relatable themes and provide enticing visuals for young fans; cue “Toby,” the music video.
Directed by Cole Bennett, the visuals are undeniably exquisite, with transitions and effects that mark the low attention span of modern music. The clean edit (which took longer than expected to complete) hits home for a new generation, while subtly paying homage to the MMLP2 cover art – which is arguably what Eminem is known for – using in part a familiar and nostalgic sepia filter. skills are most suitable. what do you think?
PS: You can also get an early copy of the album with exclusive track #2 here!
The second digital album comes with exclusive bonus track #2 and is on sale now until July 8th! Only at https://t.co/J3F45PQ5VZ #TheDeathOfSlimShady pic.twitter.com/3cim8ECFHL
— Marshall Mathers (@Eminem) July 3, 2024
Watch the video below.
