Eminem has had a big year in 2024. The rapper released The Death of Slim Shady, an album that received praise for being one of his most celebrated works in recent years. Along with several hit singles, the album helped reassert Eminem’s place in the rap world. His fans were excited not only by the music but by the unique rollout, which included an interview with his iconic alter ego, Slim Shady. Despite his success and likely nominations in the rap categories for the 2025 Grammy Awards, Eminem is already making a bold prediction: Kendrick Lamar will sweep the Grammy rap categories, and the Detroit rapper believes Lamar deserves it.
Eminem’s prediction came during a radio interview on Christmas Eve, where he discussed his album and the competition he’s facing at the upcoming Grammy Awards. Although he is expected to secure several nominations in the rap categories, he didn’t shy away from admitting that the competition is tough. The person he singled out as the biggest threat? Kendrick Lamar.
“It’s very stiff competition,” Eminem told the radio host. “Kendrick’s gonna sweep that sh*t. He’s going to and he should.”
This was a clear statement of respect and admiration for Lamar, who has long been regarded as one of the best in hip-hop. Eminem’s comment reflects not just his humility but his understanding of how much Lamar has contributed to the genre.
Kendrick Lamar’s impact on hip-hop has been undeniable, and Eminem has often cited him as one of the key artists who pushes him to be better. Over the years, the two rappers have influenced each other in ways that fans have noticed. In a 2022 interview with XXL, Eminem mentioned that he constantly tries to stay ahead in the rap game by paying close attention to artists like Kendrick Lamar. “My role in today’s hip hop is to always try to be the best rapper,” Eminem explained. “I can’t do that until I listen to… what the f*ck did Kendrick just put out?”
Eminem’s admiration for Lamar goes beyond just his musical ability. He has expressed that watching Lamar, as well as other artists like J. Cole and Joyner Lucas, helps him stay focused on improving his craft. He added, “I hyper-focus on people like Kendrick Lamar, Joyner Lucas, J. Cole, and Big Sean. Watching them and how the fck they’re doing their sht. Because they’re also focused on being the best rappers.”
This mutual respect between the two icons has been evident for some time. Kendrick Lamar has also spoken about Eminem’s influence on his own rhyming style. Fans have even drawn comparisons between their styles, especially following the release of Lamar’s GNX album. On the track “Reincarnated,” many listeners felt that Lamar was channeling some of Eminem’s energy, showcasing how much the two artists have shaped each other’s sound.
Looking ahead to the 2025 Grammy Awards, it seems that Eminem’s prediction might not be far off. Given the overwhelming praise for Lamar’s GNX album, it’s no surprise that many believe he will dominate the rap categories. Lamar’s talent and consistency make him a favorite for multiple nominations, and his impact on hip-hop continues to be felt.
The Grammy Awards will be a significant moment for both artists, but Eminem’s focus on Lamar shows the level of respect he has for his peer. Eminem has always been open about being motivated by other great artists, and Lamar has certainly played a major role in that. His prediction about Kendrick Lamar sweeping the awards reflects the belief that Lamar’s contributions to hip-hop make him a deserving winner in any category he competes in.
“Watching them and how the fck they’re doing their sht. Because they’re also focused on being the best rappers.” This quote from Eminem highlights his belief that true competition in hip-hop pushes artists to be their best. As the 2025 Grammy Awards approach, all eyes will be on Kendrick Lamar to see if he lives up to Eminem’s prediction and takes home the trophies that many expect him to win.
In the ever-evolving world of rap, where competition is fierce, both Eminem and Kendrick Lamar continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in the genre. Their mutual respect and ongoing influence on each other make them two of the most important figures in modern hip-hop.
