Eminem ‎
Relapse

Relapse is the sixth studio album by American rapper Eminem. The album was released on May 15, 2009, under Aftermath Entertainment, Shady Records, and Interscope Records. It was his first album of original material since Encore (2004), following a four-year hiatus from recording due to his writer’s block and an addiction to prescription sleeping medication. Recording sessions for the album took place during 2007 to 2009 at several recording studios, and Dr. Dre, Mark Batson, and Eminem handled production.

Conceptually, Relapse concerns the ending of his drug rehabilitation, rapping after a non-fictional relapse, and the return of Eminem’s Slim Shady alter ego. In September 2007, Dr. Dre stated his intention to dedicate two months to the production of the album. Working with Dr. Dre allowed Eminem to pick the beats from Dr. Dre’s catalog that challenged his rhythm to experiment with different flows. During the recording period, a handful of songs intended for Relapse were leaked on the Internet.

One of the most anticipated albums of 2009, Relapse debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, selling 608,000 copies in its first week. It also reached number one in twelve other countries. It produced four singles: “Crack a Bottle”, “We Made You”, “3 a.m.”, and “Beautiful”, as well as the promotional single: “Old Time’s Sake”. “Crack a Bottle”, featuring 50 Cent, was a number one hit on the Billboard Hot 100. Relapse was certified double platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). The album won Grammy Awards for Best Rap Album and Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group (for “Crack a Bottle”).

Relapse received mostly mixed reviews upon release; critics praised the production, but were divided in their responses towards the writing and overuse of accents throughout the album. Over time, however, critical and fan reception towards the album has changed, with many praising the “dark and disturbing” aspect of Eminem’s songwriting, as well as the emotional depth of “Dejá Vu” and “Beautiful”. The album has also notably gained a cult following after its initial release and has been celebrated by critics as one of the greatest horrorcore albums.