7 Underrated Eminem Tracks That Deserve as Much Love as His Biggest Hits

Eminem is a name synonymous with rap royalty, known for his chart-topping hits like “Lose Yourself,” “Stan,” and “Not Afraid.” But while these tracks have earned their place in the pantheon of hip-hop greatness, there are several gems in his extensive discography that haven’t received the same level of recognition. Here are seven underrated Eminem tracks that deserve as much love as his biggest hits.

1. “Deja Vu” (2009)

From the album Relapse, “Deja Vu” dives deep into Eminem’s struggles with addiction and the cycle of relapse. The track is a raw and introspective look into the rapper’s battle with substance abuse, offering fans a glimpse into the darker side of fame. While Relapse was a polarizing album, “Deja Vu” stands out as one of its most emotionally charged moments, showcasing Eminem’s lyrical vulnerability.

On Recovery, Eminem reflects on his career and personal demons in “Talkin’ 2 Myself.” Featuring a haunting hook from Kobe, the track
is a candid admission of self-doubt and the pressure to maintain his status in the rap game. It’s a track that resonates with anyone who has faced inner turmoil, yet it often gets overshadowed by the album’s more commercial hits.

3. “Beautiful” (2009)

Another gem from Relapse, “Beautiful” is a haunting ballad that captures Eminem’s feelings of isolation and despair during one of the lowest points of his life. The track blends a melancholic rock sample with Eminem’s poignant lyrics, making it one of his most powerful yet underrated songs. “Beautiful” is a testament to Eminem’s ability to channel his pain into art, offering listeners a cathartic experience.

4. “Like Toy Soldiers” (2004)

Despite being a single, “Like Toy Soldiers” doesn’t always get the recognition it deserves compared to Eminem’s other hits. The track is
a sobering commentary on the feuds and violence within the rap industry, with Eminem calling for peace and reflection. Its message remains relevant today, and the powerful sample from Martika’s “Toy Soldiers” only adds to the track’s emotional impact.

5. “Bad Guy” (2013)

The opening track of The Marshall Mathers LP 2, “Bad Guy” is a sequel to the iconic “Stan,” but it often flies under the radar. The track features an intense narrative that flips the script, with the protagonist seeking revenge on Eminem for the events of “Stan.” It’s a complex, multi-layered track that showcases Eminem’s storytelling prowess and his willingness to revisit and expand on his earlier work.

6. “25 to Life” (2010)

In “25 to Life,” Eminem metaphorically addresses his relationship with the music industry as if it were a toxic romantic relationship. The track, from Recovery, is a scathing critique of the pressures and sacrifices that come with fame. With its clever wordplay and emotional depth, “25 to Life” is a standout track that deserves more attention for its insight into Eminem’s complicated relationship with his
career.

7. “Criminal” (2000)

Closing out The Marshall Mathers LP, “Criminal” is a track that encapsulates Eminem’s provocative and rebellious spirit. The song is a satirical take on his public persona, with Eminem addressing his critics and controversies head-on. It’s a reminder of the raw, unfiltered Eminem that fans fell in love with, but it often gets lost in the shadow of more prominent tracks from the album.