Detroit’s rap scene is buzzing with controversy. Skilla Baby, a local MC, has made a bold statement that’s turning heads. Appearing on the “Baby, This is Keke Palmer” podcast, he claimed that Eminem is not Detroit’s best rapper anymore.
Skilla argues that while Eminem may have the numbers, the city’s love for him has faded. He asserts that other local artists have taken the spotlight over the years. Eminem’s music, according to Skilla, just doesn’t resonate with Detroiters today. This has stirred quite a debate among fans and critics alike.
Skilla Baby’s Bold Claim
Eminem, often hailed as a rap legend, faces unexpected criticism from Detroit’s own Skilla Baby. Appearing on the “Baby, This is Keke Palmer” podcast, Skilla dropped a bombshell: Eminem is not the best rapper in Detroit.
Skilla Baby elaborated, “Numbers wise, Eminem is the best Detroit rapper, but the gag is nobody would say that in Detroit.” He pointed out that many other local rappers like Sada Baby, Tee Grizzley, Babyface Ray, and Veeze have all had their moments as Detroit’s favorite rapper. Consistency is what the city lacks, he argued.
Eminem’s Influence in Question
According to Skilla Baby, while Eminem has the numbers, his music isn’t widely played in Detroit anymore. “Nobody in Detroit is playing Eminem right now, and I was an Eminem fan as a kid,” he admitted, emphasizing that despite his personal admiration, the city doesn’t consider Eminem their best rapper.
Other Notable Detroit Rappers
Skilla Baby’s list of Detroit’s top rappers raised eyebrows for who it included and omitted. Besides the aforementioned artists, he mentioned Kash Doll, Big Sean, and Dej Loaf. However, he left out prominent figures like Royce Da 5’9″, Boldy James, and Danny Brown.
Skilla later clarified on Instagram, saying, “No shade to anybody names I left off. Detroit is full of great rappers, and I can’t forget Kash Doll, Big Sean, and Dej [Loaf] of course.” He aimed to smooth over any perceived slights with this update.
Vezzo’s Take on Eminem
Vezzo, another Detroit rapper, echoed Skilla Baby’s sentiments. He felt Eminem had become detached from the current local scene. “For us, it was like Eminem was out of touch, so he wasn’t anybody we could actually relate to,” Vezzo told HipHopDX in 2020. This created a divide between Eminem and the newer generation of Detroit artists.
Vezzo remembered a time when Eminem was a hero, particularly for the youth in the ghettos. However, this reverence faded as Eminem didn’t maintain a presence in these communities. “We always wanted Em to play the position that Royce Da 5’9” played,” he added.
Royce Da 5’9″ has been more connected with the local scene, holding a leadership role with the Marshall Mathers Foundation and maintaining a visible presence in the neighborhoods. Many felt this was a role Eminem could have filled but chose not to, contributing to his diminished influence among local fans.
Eminem’s Disconnection with Detroit
Eminem’s perceived detachment from Detroit’s rap scene isn’t a new sentiment. Over the years, several local artists and fans have expressed that he’s not as involved or relatable as other Detroit rappers. This has led to a shift in how he’s viewed within the city.
While Eminem’s success is undeniable, many argue that his global fame has created a gap between him and the local community. This gap may explain why younger artists and fans don’t see him as their top rapper.
Royce Da 5’9’s Role
Royce Da 5’9″ has managed to maintain his status and respect in Detroit through consistent community engagement. He is actively involved with the Marshall Mathers Foundation and is frequently seen in local spots and events, contrasting sharply with Eminem’s absence.
Royce’s approach has earned him a special place in the hearts of many Detroit residents. They appreciate his efforts to give back and stay connected, viewing him as more than just an artist but a community leader.
Through his visibility and involvement, Royce has become a symbol of what many hoped Eminem would represent. This has only intensified the comparison and debate over who holds the title of Detroit’s best rapper.
Social Media Reactions
Skilla Baby’s comments sparked a flurry of reactions on social media. Fans and critics alike weighed in, some agreeing with his take, while others staunchly defended Eminem’s legacy. The debate highlighted the deep-rooted opinions surrounding Detroit’s rap hierarchy.
On platforms like Twitter and Instagram, discussions ranged from thoughtful analyses to heated arguments. This incident showed just how passionate people are about their local music scene and its representation.
The controversy stirred by Skilla Baby’s remarks has sparked a significant debate. Despite Eminem’s worldwide success, it appears that his influence in Detroit has waned. Local figures like Royce Da 5’9″ have stepped up, becoming more relatable and connected to the community. This ongoing discussion underscores the evolving dynamics of Detroit’s rap scene, with new voices continually emerging and reshaping the landscape.
