Guess who’s back? Eminem, the legendary rapper born Marshall Mathers, has released the video for “Houdini,” the first single from his upcoming album The Death of Slim Shady (Coup de Grâce). The star-studded music video features appearances by Snoop Dogg, Pete Davidson, and comedian Shane Gillis, adding a layer of excitement to Eminem’s latest project.
A Nostalgic and Star-Studded Music Video
“Houdini” samples the Steve Miller Band’s 1982 hit “Abracadabra” and opens with a nod to Eminem’s classic 2002 hit “Without Me.” The video begins with the iconic lyrics: “Guess who’s back, back again/Shady’s back, tell a friend,” instantly evoking nostalgia among fans. In a creative twist, the video portrays the 2002 bleach-blond Slim Shady stepping through a portal to 2024, where he encounters modern tech gadgets like selfie sticks and VR headsets, which leave him bewildered.
The video marks Eminem’s first release since 2020’s Music to Be Murdered By. Dr. Dre, who discovered Eminem in 1998 and appeared in the “Without Me” video, returns to alert the rapper to a new problem. “We’ve got a problem, check this out. Get your ass down here,” Dre tells Eminem over the phone.
Celebrity Cameos and Comedic Moments
The video features comic book-style panels with cameos from 50 Cent and The Voice Coach Snoop Dogg, who join in the chorus: “Guess who’s back?” The narrative follows Eminem’s superhero alter-ego, Rapboy, as he dons spandex and teams up with Dr. Dre to search for Slim Shady. The younger version of Slim Shady navigates the city, unimpressed with modern life, even crashing a podcast recording with Shane Gillis in frustration.
The climax of the video sees an epic rooftop battle between Rapboy and 2002 Slim Shady. After a series of punches, the two merge, creating a hybrid Eminem with bleach blond hair. This transformation spreads throughout the city, symbolizing the pervasive influence of Slim Shady.
Reuniting with Pete Davidson
In a humorous twist, Eminem reunites with Pete Davidson, who drives the rapper’s car after Dr. Dre exits, tired of Eminem’s insults. Davidson, sporting blond hair like the other Slim Shady clones, quips, “Trust me, I’m a great driver. Don’t worry, I just got my license back.” The video ends with Eminem and Davidson driving off into the night, wreaking havoc on the streets.
Davidson’s cameo adds a layer of irony, given Eminem’s previous appearances on Saturday Night Live, where he asked Davidson to stop his parodies. This reunion in “Houdini” serves as a playful nod to their past interactions.
Conclusion
Eminem’s “Houdini” video blends nostalgia with modern satire, featuring a host of celebrity cameos and a storyline that bridges past and present. The return of the bleach blond Slim Shady, the collaboration with Dr. Dre, and the humorous inclusion of Pete Davidson and Shane Gillis make this video a memorable launch for Eminem’s new album. As fans eagerly await the full release of The Death of Slim Shady (Coup de Grâce), “Houdini” sets the stage with a mix of humor, nostalgia, and star power.
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