Music To Be Murdered By
by Eminem
User Score
8.5

Universal acclaim- based on 5097 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 4,259 out of 5097
  2. Mixed: 222 out of 5097
  3. Negative: 616 out of 5097
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  1. Carmen19
    Jan 22, 2020
    9
    Age is just a number. I was the
    G the O-A-T
    O nce I was played in rotation A t every radio station
    T hey said I'm lyrically amazing.
    Shady did it again

    Marshall did it again.
    #Eminem
  2. Jakealday
    Jan 22, 2020
    9
    Great album, songs that even was not my style got better with every listen, em has improved since Kamikaze and proves he’s one of the best alive
  3. Suspect2020
    Jan 22, 2020
    9
  4. chinno
    Jan 22, 2020
    9
    Music to Be Murdered By is Eminem's best album since MMLP2. Production and features are 10/10
  5. Rubenjaak
    Jan 24, 2020
    9
    Yeah it is genius like always, wouldn't say his best or one of his best because he already dropped a few which he and others just can't come close to ever. Talking bout recovery, MMLP,... but this is certainly 1billion times better than i would have thought and huge fan of it. Glad he always kicks back no matter the haters of so called 'artists' lil pump etc... very nice album
  6. Poisoned_Maniac
    Jan 22, 2020
    9
    For me its a great album. I would recommend for others to listen and see what you think, not much I would change or take out.
  7. Bla2772
    Jan 22, 2020
    9
    Some of ems best work since TES hits on all notes from emotional, to funny, to grimey. Nothing was missed. Nice best selection and of course some of the best rapping you'll ever hear. Was worth the wait
  8. Shimerly
    Jan 22, 2020
    9
    It’s great, dunno why so many people trashing it. You can’t compare it to MMLP and other early albums but I’ve listened since it released and it’s getting better and better.
  9. Kingmathers_
    Jan 22, 2020
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This is album is the perfect combination of old em and new em, and the production feels much tighter and high quality,
    And those beats though,pure     … Expand
  10. Nikkas
    Jan 23, 2020
    9
    I think it’s great album with nice flow and some great lyrics. It could be an other classic by Eminem
  11. Ncsens
    Jan 23, 2020
    9
    Overall a nice album seems more focused then kamikaze.
    Some hooks could be better...
  12. benstroud11
    Jan 23, 2020
    9
    All the people saying it’s trash and needs “lower” ratings for balance. Eminem fans are happy, Eminem fans know it’s a great album. The best album he’s put out since MMLP 2. Great Features And Replay Value.
  13. fikurichan
    Jan 23, 2020
    9
    the more i listen to it, the more better it gets. best of em i've heard since revival.
  14. JordyGio
    Jan 23, 2020
    9
    Guess who's back? Slim SHADYY! He splits lines like he ate chilly peppers, boyss!
  15. MetroAtm
    Jan 23, 2020
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Album is on point.. from delivery to punch lines, production, features.. it is all fire.. Eminem has outdone himself and proven to the world that he has more skill can do it better than every other emcee.… Expand
  16. mitchell63771
    Jan 23, 2020
    9
    Definitely one of his best! The amount of word play on this album is insane. He is hands down lyrically the best.
  17. CleschHS
    Jan 23, 2020
    9
    An absolute powerhouse. With very few exceptions, almost every one bangs and especially the features, which are a big contrast to eminem's parts, make the album unique and it's own kind of beautiful. Not for the squeamish though
  18. Conorc156
    Jan 23, 2020
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. A brilliant return to form if kamikaze was slim shady resurfacing then this is him back at his full controversial form although I don’t agree with the Manchester bombing reference you can expect that kinda stuff from Eminem. However even though people argue argue that darkness doesn’t make sense because of the bombing reference on a earlier song it does make sense Eminem has been very much so open about his stance on guns. And following in the form of mmlp2 and revival he also tempts to sort of reconcial with his dad… Expand
  19. Rollie_fingers
    Jan 23, 2020
    9
    This album is mot perfect, no, it is impressive nonetheless. The skill it takes to come up with the schemes, rhymes, punchlines, and entendres all while keeping cadence, proper fluctuation, and pronunciation to where you can understand the words no matter how fast they fly by is amazing. Second to none. A fee chorus lines were just ok. References BY THE DOZEN. Everyone on the albumThis album is mot perfect, no, it is impressive nonetheless. The skill it takes to come up with the schemes, rhymes, punchlines, and entendres all while keeping cadence, proper fluctuation, and pronunciation to where you can understand the words no matter how fast they fly by is amazing. Second to none. A fee chorus lines were just ok. References BY THE DOZEN. Everyone on the album brought their A game. "Never lose again" and Marsh are immediate favorites… Expand
  20. Dunnerz
    Jan 24, 2020
    9
    This album deffo hit the nostalgia factor while also having that clean flow he brought with the Kamikaze album. A step in the right direction for his future work would be to scrap the Ed Feature and less love songs.
  21. Madhattermadex
    Jan 24, 2020
    9
    Fantastic, great production, and verses. Just consistent with only one or two missteps. Give it a chance I reckon you won't hate all of it.
  22. TheRG
    Jan 26, 2020
    9
    Good mix of conscious rap and old slim shady vibes. Not exactly the album I was hoping for, but still so much closer than Revival and Kamikaze
  23. Dejanp14
    Jan 28, 2020
    9
    Best REAL album since recovery h
    H
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  24. nickwebdev2020
    Feb 24, 2020
    9
    Overall good album with variety of songs which is one of the reasons I like his discography. Not 10 because he could skip 2 songs. Good punches that requires time to get which is good because the songs will be discussed more. Lastly most features by some of his close friends were great.
  25. yahyawari
    Jan 28, 2020
    9
    Not surprised by the lyrical genuine that Em showed in this album, it is just a continuation of what he started doing back in 2013 upon the release of the MMLP2 (which is my favorite by him). Music To Be Murdered By is definitely a top 5 Em album.
  26. LogieBat
    Feb 3, 2020
    9
    With fun and interesting flows and great feature acts and a homage to Juice WRLD this album is sure worth your time. Wheather em is rapping about a Las Vegas gun man or going to the club. He never fails to land the punches and bars
  27. Carlegas
    Feb 3, 2020
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The old and the new come together, and is awesome. I feel like Em is a little bit lost in this new trap world, but when he comes together with other artist that are familiar with it, well... Shot gets crazy!… Expand
  28. farfetchedfan
    Feb 3, 2020
    9
    Some great brag tracks on here: Premonition, Marsh, Godzilla. Some decent attempts to get deeper on the darker tracks: Stepdad, Darkness and most successfully on Never Love Again. Some of the features are not so amazing, but overall one of the better rap albums of recent years.
  29. SloMo368
    Feb 10, 2020
    9
    Highly improved production by Eminem’s standards. In fact, his second best produced album after Relapse, which makes sense as it’s the first time Dre has been involved in production since then. As usual, excellent technical rapping and wordplay, lyricism is on point. Extremely consistent tracklist, despite songs that are “fillers” or that don’t have much content. For the first time sinceHighly improved production by Eminem’s standards. In fact, his second best produced album after Relapse, which makes sense as it’s the first time Dre has been involved in production since then. As usual, excellent technical rapping and wordplay, lyricism is on point. Extremely consistent tracklist, despite songs that are “fillers” or that don’t have much content. For the first time since The Eminem Show, not one unlistenable or sonically bad song. Em also finds himself having interesting content this time, as opposed to his previous album. However, there are some tracks with no content such as Marsh and Lock It Up, with the former slightly bringing the album down. Never Love Again has an absolutely stunning beat switch and is one of his best written songs ever with the consistent metaphors. It’s truly an amazingly written song. Also this album has the best features in Eminem’s discography with the dream collaboration between him and Black Thought finally happening. All features deliver except for Ed Sheeran, who didn’t belong, and Young M.A. The weakest tracks on the album are In Too Deep, Those Kinda Nights, Stepdad, and Farewell from worst to better. The best ones are I Will, Lock It Up, You Gon’ Learn, Darkness, and Unaccomodating from best to slightly less good. Amazing return to form and Eminem’s fourth best album imo.… Expand
  30. Negativ3
    Feb 5, 2020
    9
    Not the best but a good one album I've heard in a while, I just don't have any idea why is rated so low on Metacritic
  31. Raybanmac
    Feb 16, 2020
    9
    Some of Em's finest work. This album is crazy. Schooling the rap game NOBODY do this sh*t like Eminem
  32. NicolaQuarelli
    Mar 10, 2020
    9
    Checks every box. Not only one of Em’s best ever albums, but one of Raps best ever albums period. Flawless rap.
  33. Mehrbodmh82
    Mar 14, 2020
    9
    It's definitely his best album since MMLP2 . it opens perfect continiuse really good and finishes awesome . I think the best tracks on it are leaving heaven. No regrets.and Darkness. Marshal your flow on premonition is flawless. Only problem is the theme of album and skits is really dark but songs don't correctly match it.
  34. Karmapop
    Aug 26, 2020
    9
    The critics may not see Music to be Murdered By as an artistic masterpiece, but for fans of Em’s masterful wordsmithing this is absolutely a winner. Sure, there are absolutely a few clunkers in here. Once you get past those and dig into the rest, the astonishing density of complex multi-layered rhymes, endless puns, and deep call backs are something that repeat listening continues toThe critics may not see Music to be Murdered By as an artistic masterpiece, but for fans of Em’s masterful wordsmithing this is absolutely a winner. Sure, there are absolutely a few clunkers in here. Once you get past those and dig into the rest, the astonishing density of complex multi-layered rhymes, endless puns, and deep call backs are something that repeat listening continues to unearth.

    Eminem is the rap dad, spitting line after line of double and triple entendres. When was the last time a mainstream rap album had you actually laughing over and over? Some of these verses verge on a modern pop-culturally aware shakespearian comedy. Not only has he continued to hone his lyrical craft to levels best compared with famous poets, but the technical prowess of his delivery adds an entirely new level of artistry.    … Expand
  35. Jdkksb
    Sep 2, 2020
    9
    Overlooked and massively underrated. Especially "Darkness" which is a masterpiece full of wordplay, double and even triple entendres and a meaningfull message.
  36. Ehrenmann
    Sep 15, 2020
    9
    This has something for everybody its truly a good EP, you got deep **** like Darkness and leavin Heaven. And if you just want fun than Obviusly Godzilla and Those kinda nights , but if your all about skill Yah Yah and I Will is what you wanna hear. In generall there only was one song i didnt like, namely In to Deep, but the rest was absolutly lit
  37. BaileyJ
    Nov 14, 2020
    9
    Easily one of the best Eminem albums in a LONG time. Some of the best production he's had since TES, lyricism on point, features are all great. I could go on and on, great album. Wish it stuck with the theme a bit more.
  38. MuhammadDaniel
    Dec 21, 2020
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This Album,Lyrical Are Great..I'm Not A Stan..But The Beat Was Fire.....He Still Got That Energy… Expand
  39. The-X-Territory
    Jan 24, 2021
    9
    Not one bad song here. Every song bumps, and they are without a doubt Eminem's best songs lyrically, this shows how much he abuses multisyllabic rhyming, punchlines and double/triple entendres. It's been over a year since this album came out and I'm still figuring out new meanings for certain lyrics. It also came out on my Birthday, so that's a plus.
  40. ManicMorris
    Jan 18, 2020
    8
    Em's latest fixes some of the biggest problems with his recent output. Whilst his lyricism has never left, his consistently-angry delivery has had a negative effect on much of his comedic writing. 'Music to be murdered by' has the best of both worlds, and Em sounds rejuvenated and actually seems to be having fun behind the mic again.

    His voices range from comical cartoon characters to    Em's latest fixes some of the biggest problems with his recent output. Whilst his lyricism has never left, his consistently-angry delivery has had a negative effect on much of his comedic writing. 'Music to be murdered by' has the best of both worlds, and Em sounds rejuvenated and actually seems to be having fun behind the mic again.

    His voices range from comical cartoon characters to philosophical and depressing introspectives and everything in between.    … Expand
  41. therealbear
    Dec 20, 2020
    8
    This proves once again that conceptual music is what a great artist can come up with, but then again Eminem did this all of his career, so it's not a surprise that he murdered the competition with this sneaky release of intelligent lyrics and good production.
  42. SBells27Reviews
    Jan 21, 2020
    8
    While not on par with the classic trilogy or MMLP2, it's definitely felt like a breath of fresh air after Revival and Kamikaze (albums that I personally disliked). A few annoying beats and questionable verses here but a lot of highlights can be found here, like Darkness or Stepdad.
  43. TolgaRealASF
    Jan 22, 2020
    8
    Great album by Eminem. He still got it (as he showed in Kamikaze) this takes it up a notch.
  44. AngelAntonio96
    Jan 24, 2020
    8
    El álbum esta muy bueno, me gusto bastante. Las arirats jamás podran cancelar al Rap God ni en sus sueños xD
  45. ThanosMeletis
    Jan 17, 2020
    8
    Listen here, Eminem is almost 50 years old
    He has a new sound and I wouldnt want him to sound and rap like his OG days
    His New sound is very enjoyable and if you have connected Eminem with old-sxhool raw rap then your mistake
    He raps for over 20 years he can change his style if he wants dont be so harsh about it Just adapt to it❤️
  46. Tharuka_R
    Jan 23, 2020
    8
    This is The Eminem's Best Album In Years. I Thoroughly Enjoyed It Except 3 Tracks. Those 3 Tracks Are Not Bad But Are Fine For Me. Other Tracks Are Just Mind Blowing. 8.5/10
  47. salvoarnone
    Jan 22, 2020
    8
    his best album since 2013. A very solid album all the way through that takes a couple of listens to fully appreciate it. Lyrically impressive
  48. STAINKAY
    Aug 14, 2020
    8
    Guess who's back, back again
    Shady's back, tell a friend
    Guess who's back, guess who's back?
    Guess who's back, guess who's back?
    Guess who's back, guess who's back?
    Guess who's back?
    I've created a monster, 'cause nobody wants to see Marshall no more.
  49. MusicGuyMack
    Feb 3, 2020
    8
    Em never truly justifies his record's excessive length, and his continuing to rage against "Revival" haters two albums later feels increasingly childish, but richly evocative beats keep the album functioning as a mood piece if not a fully coherent listening experience, while immaculate flows and strong storytelling across the LP's standout tracks result in a handful of songs that rankEm never truly justifies his record's excessive length, and his continuing to rage against "Revival" haters two albums later feels increasingly childish, but richly evocative beats keep the album functioning as a mood piece if not a fully coherent listening experience, while immaculate flows and strong storytelling across the LP's standout tracks result in a handful of songs that rank among his best work from over the last 10 years.

    Choice Cuts: "You Gon' Learn", "Godzilla", "Darkness"    … Expand
  50. faithwell11
    Jan 18, 2020
    8
    This is simply a really good album don’t get the undeserving hate towards it
  51. Gunslinga
    Jan 17, 2020
    8
    Classic slim shady.... 8./10... Music to Be Murdered By best Eminem's album in years!
  52. JACK15q
    Apr 5, 2020
    8
    Amazing album. People are only hating because its eminem. If the MMLP dropped today people would hate it. Whether you like it or not eminem is a GOAT.
  53. jdooit
    Jan 17, 2020
    8
    Eminem continues to prove his writing and rapping ability. Some new sounds on this album for the people trying to say he sticks in the past. Darkness was a jaw dropper just like Stan and Arose were, completely a surprise. This is a unique record from Marshall and I think it'll have some longevity.
  54. Evancowdrey
    Jan 17, 2020
    8
    With great collaborations and great sound overall, it’s a great surprise album by Eminem and making it a great start to the new year for albums overall
  55. Metak3m
    Jan 17, 2020
    8
    Slim shady is back and better than ever. After two polarizing albums in the past three years, eminem brought us this new record inspired by the same titular album from alfred hitchcock "Music to be murdered by". The tracks central theme is murdering the entire rap game like he did on his first three albums at the early 2000's. The best tracks of this album were Godzilla, featuring the lateSlim shady is back and better than ever. After two polarizing albums in the past three years, eminem brought us this new record inspired by the same titular album from alfred hitchcock "Music to be murdered by". The tracks central theme is murdering the entire rap game like he did on his first three albums at the early 2000's. The best tracks of this album were Godzilla, featuring the late rapper Juice wrld with a Speedo type of verse that could pump anyone's day. Following up is the first single, darkness depicting eminem's usual dark themes but with a huge twist that should not be spoiled by this review. The album have major features that makes it unique in comparison to his other records that have artists outside of shady records. It is also the driving force of the album because it let eminem demonstrate how relevant he can be even next to his younger peers while also mentioning the legends of the rap game that inspired him to partake in the first place like Jay Z, 2pac, Trench from naughty by nature, etc. The instrumentation fits the tone of the entire album by incorporating relapse-ish beats by dr dre while also featuring Royce da 5'9 production techniques that made this album a gem in it's own way. The track stepdad is the only song where it is the most eminem trademarked track in comparison with the others but it is not too distracting like the track from relapse "My mom", it somewhat takes itself seriously and also comedic by the way the song elevates itself. The rock samples are almost none resistance as this album front and center are hip hop and trap beats which is a huge improvement over the last two albums already. Overall this is eminem's best record since the Marshall mathers LP 2 and will be remembered by the unique features and incredible wordplay that contains memorable lines that can be up there with his older material… Expand
  56. U_smoke_reggie
    Jan 17, 2020
    8
    Em is back on his "I dont give a **** **** while still having a message in some of his songs. Some of it seems like recycled material, but altogether a well put together album.
  57. Stephenmcg91
    Jan 18, 2020
    8
    Best album since Recovery. Finally used better beats and not so many rapid-fire songs. His hooks are much stronger than Revival and Kamakaze. It could’ve maybe been 2/3 songs shorter and I’d have gave it 9/10 as it dims down a little just after the half way point. It does pick pick itself back up near the end. I enjoyed thoroughly enjoyed this album. Great to see him getting closer to hisBest album since Recovery. Finally used better beats and not so many rapid-fire songs. His hooks are much stronger than Revival and Kamakaze. It could’ve maybe been 2/3 songs shorter and I’d have gave it 9/10 as it dims down a little just after the half way point. It does pick pick itself back up near the end. I enjoyed thoroughly enjoyed this album. Great to see him getting closer to his old best.… Expand
  58. ZeulFC
    Jan 18, 2020
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. It is a good album, a bit inconsistent in its tone and features, bit it has some great production and Darkness feels like old Em coming back.… Expand
  59. Het
    Jan 18, 2020
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Its a good album 8 or 7.5 . Most of them are good nothing like wow to be amazed at.… Expand
  60. HeySoos
    Jan 18, 2020
    8
    Not Quite the Slim Shady we all miss, but, between the plethora of dope bars and energetic features, Music To Be Murdered By is arguably much better than Revival and Kamikaze.
  61. Emisbest
    Jan 18, 2020
    8
    I think its better than kamikaze just becouse he released it with now deceased juice wrld and many other interprets and the 7th song is a real banger
  62. Hayes0000
    Jan 18, 2020
    8
    Zzzzzzzzzxxxxxxfgggggggggggggggggggggggggfrfbhgggggggggggferrrrhjjyyyyyyyyy
  63. simonberglund2
    Jan 22, 2020
    8
    Great album, of course it could never live up to the expectations of MM LP or TEM. Still this album is probably top 5 of his albums.
  64. Frankiec1975
    Jan 18, 2020
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This album has really strong beats, Em brings the lyrics, strong supporting cast. At the end of the day, makes me wonder what is he thinking? He dabbles back and forth between whether he wants to blow up the world or does he want to play the hero? Is he the bad guy or a pretender? It is artistry, as as with any art it's open to interpretation, but I for once would like the mixed signals to not be so blurred...… Expand
  65. brampt
    Jan 19, 2020
    8
    Eminem makes a significant return to form on “Music To Be Murdered By”. On this LP, he delivers excellent flows alongside equally (mostly) potent lyrics + great production. Some tracks I would’ve gone without are Stepfather (the beat is quite horrendous), Farewell, Those Kinda Nights, and Marsh. Otherwise, this album is quite good.
  66. FW7
    Jan 22, 2020
    8
    Great way to start off the decade for Marshall. The production on this project is a HUGE step up from his previous 4 albums especially on songs like Lock it Up, Little Engine, Marsh, Farewell & I Will. The features as well are PHENOMENAL on this album such as Anderson .Paak, Black Thought, Don Toliver, Royce Da 5'9" (not new but he really shined on all 3 verses), etc. As for the mainGreat way to start off the decade for Marshall. The production on this project is a HUGE step up from his previous 4 albums especially on songs like Lock it Up, Little Engine, Marsh, Farewell & I Will. The features as well are PHENOMENAL on this album such as Anderson .Paak, Black Thought, Don Toliver, Royce Da 5'9" (not new but he really shined on all 3 verses), etc. As for the main attraction (Eminem) he performs well but not flawless . His flows range from speed, mellow to complex/unique and are overall solid. The content isn't all new but it's hard to blame him since he's been in the game for more than 20 years and everyone only has so much stories to tell. He does keep it fresh on some tracks like Darkness where he raps from the perspective of the Las Vegas shooter that is also a double entendre from Em' POV on how he use to take an unhealthy amount of substance before a show. tracks like these always take it to the next level when they're made by Em. His pen game is once again great with clever bars and complex rhyme schemes which isn't new from Em but never gets old. One tiny Critique i have is the concept of the album. It's supposed to be some sort of murder rendition with inspiration from Alfred Hitchcock but most songs don't fit it. First couple of tracks do with him once again firing back at critics and some song throughout the project have a dark vibe but some don't fit in at all. The dysfunctional relationship songs for example seem filler and seems like the only purpose they have is to give the listener a breath of fresh air to take a break from the aggressive and intense cuts on the project. They aren't terrible but they don't need to be there. His chorus game has improved majorly but he also has some that aren't so great. I Will is my personal favorite from the whole project while Em gives us some of his best singing vocals since the Eminem Show era. My favorite hooks from Eminem on this album are; Unaccommodating, Darkness, Little Engine, Farewell & I Will.
    I love the energy in this album, he finally sounds motivated and comfortable. On his previous two albums he sounded sort of lost and confused at to what his fans wanted to hear but I feel like he just made what he wanted to make and in the end he sounds the best when he goes in that direction.
    My Favorite Tracks are: Unaccommodating, You Gon' Learn, Godzilla, Darkness, Little Engine, Lock it up, No Regrets & I Will
    My Least Favorite tracks are: In Too Deep & Stepdad
    Overall rating; 8.6    … Expand
  67. NateUrM8
    Jan 21, 2020
    8
    One of the best Em albums in a long time. Didn't like Revival, thought Kamikaze was pretty good, but this just blew me away.
  68. CrimsonHerring
    Jan 22, 2020
    8
    Thematically veered always from what it was doing. Removing a few songs makes the album seem more cohesive. Raps are good, beats are good, features are good, subject matter is good. The only other complaint is that sometimes punchlines undercut the story or message.
  69. Mattmoon666
    Jan 22, 2020
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This is album is an absolute shock to the system as Eminem surprises fans and critics alike with an album to be murdered by. Out of this world rapping ability, technical flows, deep storytelling, and BARZ for days!! Eminem is a goat and proves that once again.… Expand
  70. bigPac
    Jan 22, 2020
    8
    MMLP, SSLP and The Eminem show are better albums, but Music to be murdered by is pretty good too. I liked the beat change up from his recent albums. All of the features in this albums are great. Darkness is a masterpiece. Side note: there seems to be a lot of people who haven’t listened to the album giving this a bad score just to bring the user score down. If you think other albums fromMMLP, SSLP and The Eminem show are better albums, but Music to be murdered by is pretty good too. I liked the beat change up from his recent albums. All of the features in this albums are great. Darkness is a masterpiece. Side note: there seems to be a lot of people who haven’t listened to the album giving this a bad score just to bring the user score down. If you think other albums from other artists deserve to be rated higher then go give those albums good reviews. No need to trash someone’s hard work when you haven’t actually listened to it.… Expand
  71. Munknjet
    Mar 22, 2021
    8
    These days there seem to be a lot of people suffering from ‘Eminem Derangement Syndrome’ – lots of folks are ready to sh*t on everything Eminem does, no matter what (just like they will auto-praise anything media darlings like Kendrick Lamar and Tyler The Creator drop, no matter what). Music To Be Murdered By has its flaws, but it’s not the trainwreck some make it out to be – it’s notThese days there seem to be a lot of people suffering from ‘Eminem Derangement Syndrome’ – lots of folks are ready to sh*t on everything Eminem does, no matter what (just like they will auto-praise anything media darlings like Kendrick Lamar and Tyler The Creator drop, no matter what). Music To Be Murdered By has its flaws, but it’s not the trainwreck some make it out to be – it’s not anywhere near as bad as Revival (2017) was. It’s more on par with Kamikaze (2018) – a mixed bag, with highs and lows.

    The bad: at 17 full tracks, the album is too long with too many weak songs (especially “Those Kinda Nights” with Ed Sheeran is terrible). The features and hooks on songs like “Unaccomodating”, “Leaving Heaven”, and “No Regrets” kind of suck, with guests like Young MA, Skylar Grey and Don Toliver (and Ed Sheeran) obviously on this album for no other reason than for marketing purposes – but their presence doesn’t do the quality of the album any good. Then there are some weak trap beats here and there and a few cringe-worthy lyrics (a reference to the terrorist attack during an Ariana Grande concert where 22 (mostly) kids were killed being in especially bad taste).

    The good: tracks like “Godzilla” (despite a meh posthumous appearance by Juice WRLD)”, “Yah Yah” (featuring Royce Da 5’9″, Black Thought, and Q-Tip), “I Will” (featuring KXNG Crooked, Royce da 5’9″ and Joell Ortiz), “Darkness” (honing in on mental health issues and gun violence and drawing a parallel between the two) and “Premonition” (with killer bars like “Instead of us being credited for longevity / And being able to keep it up for this long at this level, we get told we’ll never be what we were / **** if I was as half as good as I was / I’m still twice as good as you’ll ever be / Only way that you’re ahead of me’s alphabetically”) are vintage Eminem. Also, Eminem shows and proves he still has the lyrical skill to blow most other rappers out of the water.

    Eminem should have left 6 or 7 tracks on the cutting room floor, then Music To Be Murdered By would have been great. As it is, the album has its moments and is not all bad    … Expand
  72. Niteowl13
    Jan 23, 2020
    8
    Lyrically good features **** reach 100000
    Could be better
    But it's good anyway cuz Its EMINEM
  73. Sarina_binesh
    Jan 23, 2020
    8
    Eminem is like wine, gets better as he gets older. Insane wordplays and references, hidden meanings and super hot fire bars. Lyrically, it’s straight up fire. Em shows he can adapt to the nee gen of music and sounds a bit more modern while still keeping the lyrics tight. “Darkness” is a great track , 2 stories are told in the same timeline and it’s just so good.
  74. Zumaaazzzz
    Jan 24, 2020
    8
    Just great album with a huge replay value to me.
    I like 10 songs here and that's awesome
  75. Shahsiam
    Jan 24, 2020
    8
    Great album with interesting flows and immaculate lyricism and best production since relapse.
    A great concept executed well.
  76. mgiannikakis
    Jan 29, 2020
    8
    Some incredible features and top-notch lyricism. Most of the songs are delightful in this one, though there are some that are not that memorable. Not that they're bad, it's just that they're not that good. And it stands out when the rest of the material is excellent. I This is the best we've seen from Slim Shady in years!
  77. Codeling
    Aug 7, 2021
    8
    Great album. His best album since Relapse.
    Best songs: Darkness, Lock It Up
    Worst songs: -
  78. liljjblingbling
    Feb 15, 2020
    8
    Its a good a album, definitely better than revival, kamikaze, and relapse. The beats are better the features are better flows are great, lyrics, for the most part are also really good. Im glad he has juice WRLD, Don Toliver, and Anderson. Paak as features, Darkness is definitely a masterpiece. Although this albums name is "Music to be Murdered By" he rarely follows through with the theme.Its a good a album, definitely better than revival, kamikaze, and relapse. The beats are better the features are better flows are great, lyrics, for the most part are also really good. Im glad he has juice WRLD, Don Toliver, and Anderson. Paak as features, Darkness is definitely a masterpiece. Although this albums name is "Music to be Murdered By" he rarely follows through with the theme. This album is a step in the right direction for Em. A strong 7 to light 8 for me.… Expand
  79. Ix_yaso
    Mar 19, 2020
    8
    Amazing album liked all the songs except 1 song which i find that its not good enough the problem wasn't from em ( lock it up feat anderson peak) the problem was from who featured the song i didn't like the way he sings and i found it awful to hear and the hook not that good in my opinion
  80. Macrofficial
    Mar 29, 2020
    8
    Even though the last few tracks on the album are somewhat boring, the rest of the album is pretty solid. My favourite tracks on the album would have to be Those Kinda Nights, Darkness, and Stepdad
  81. DABBINGBOI
    Aug 16, 2021
    8
    MTBMB is possibly the best Eminem release since Marshall Mathers LP (About just as good as Relapse) I really like the Alfred Hitchcock interludes, gives the tracks an ominous feeling. Most of the tracks are very good, a couple of things though.
    He has way too many songs rapping about toxic relationships, Farewell is god awful. (I know "Never love again" is just one big double-entendre    MTBMB is possibly the best Eminem release since Marshall Mathers LP (About just as good as Relapse) I really like the Alfred Hitchcock interludes, gives the tracks an ominous feeling. Most of the tracks are very good, a couple of things though.
    He has way too many songs rapping about toxic relationships, Farewell is god awful. (I know "Never love again" is just one big double-entendre about drugs, but still). Those kinda nights is also annoying.
    The second half of the tape is just as good as the first. Overall a very pleasant album. The Posse cuts are some of the best tracks on the album.
    For his next album, i wish Eminem would do a more conceptualized album    … Expand
  82. adamdg3353
    Dec 21, 2020
    8
    Music To Be Murdered By is easily the best Eminem album in seven years. Darkness is a lyrically brilliant track with a great message about gun control, and the whole song is a double entendre. Eminem's latest release features a couple of disappointing tracks, but the album is amazing in general. This project has features from both new and old artists, and should appeal to many audiences.Music To Be Murdered By is easily the best Eminem album in seven years. Darkness is a lyrically brilliant track with a great message about gun control, and the whole song is a double entendre. Eminem's latest release features a couple of disappointing tracks, but the album is amazing in general. This project has features from both new and old artists, and should appeal to many audiences.

    Favourite tracks: Unaccomodating, Those Kinda Nights, Godzilla, Darkness, Leaving Heaven, Yah Yah, Stepdad, Little Engine, Lock It Up, I Will

    Least favourite tracks: Never Love Again, Farewell    … Expand
  83. ChunkDump
    Dec 21, 2020
    8
    the Album is a breathe of fresh air in some cases its a little underwhelming. its Eminem. speaking his mind, not giving two **** this project keep it going!
  84. Anthony_wx
    Jan 4, 2023
    8
    You **** who say this album is trash can suck my **** , MTBMB is great, and the side b is fire too.
  85. Gods_Son23
    Jan 20, 2020
    7
    Why is Unaccommodating down as a top track on the album page??? It isn't. This album is decent. It's being hated on by many elsewhere who wouldn't know good spittin' if it crawled out of them because no one does it anymore.
  86. Tbone413
    Sep 27, 2021
    7
    Some of the songs just feel too much like Eminem is messing around and not caring about what he’s putting out. There was quite a lot of insignificant theming in the album that wasn’t really saved by lyricism. However, the album also does have some wonderful messages at times and some brilliantly crafted verses that remind us all who he really is. At times it made me question whether or notSome of the songs just feel too much like Eminem is messing around and not caring about what he’s putting out. There was quite a lot of insignificant theming in the album that wasn’t really saved by lyricism. However, the album also does have some wonderful messages at times and some brilliantly crafted verses that remind us all who he really is. At times it made me question whether or not it was a significant addition to his discography, but in the end it does pull it off.… Expand
  87. rappityrap
    Jun 4, 2022
    7
    Solid effort by Eminem. He rides the beats in a very unorthodox way but it's still fun. could've done without the love songs and step dad.
  88. Hell_Mell12
    Jan 18, 2020
    7
    Most reviews are unrealistically high or low. Giving it a 0 or 10 with no criteria to follow is as biased as it comes. However I won't branch off into an extremely abstract review, I'll just keep it simple for future listeners.

    Production: A- Structure: C Message: C Lyrics: A Creativity: B Overall Grade: 7 of 10 (6 low ball & 8.5 high ball) Biggest Praises: -Periodically    Most reviews are unrealistically high or low. Giving it a 0 or 10 with no criteria to follow is as biased as it comes. However I won't branch off into an extremely abstract review, I'll just keep it simple for future listeners.

    Production: A-
    Structure: C
    Message: C
    Lyrics: A
    Creativity: B

    Overall Grade: 7 of 10 (6 low ball & 8.5 high ball)

    Biggest Praises:
    -Periodically fixed his streak of weak production choice regarding quality beats and choosing ones that synchronize well with his organic sound.
    -Has flashes of covering significant introspective hardships and significant problems in society.
    -Maintains a consistent balance from start to finish.

    Biggest Criticisms:
    -Unnecessary tracks (filler) that don’t contribute much if anything to the overall message and development of the project.
    -Forced a slew of literary devices.
    -Fairly unrefined delivery in some instances due to a choppy flow.

    Key Tracks: Unaccommodating, You Gon’ Learn, and Godzilla.

    Final Thoughts: This album exceeds his last couple of efforts by a substantial margin and fix several flaws while the remaining ones aren't nearly as glaring. A great one time listen for casuals who gravitate to the singles and a cult hit for those who have trained their ears for his uncanny and unique sound.    … Expand
  89. Papou27
    Feb 3, 2020
    7
    Good but not the same sound as before. The song "I Will" is probably the one who reminds me the most old Eminem on this album.
  90. Lajaleaa
    Feb 17, 2020
    7
    ( 70/100 )

    Cerca de ser un muy mal album, Eminem se enfoca en todo el dolor, la hostilidad y violencia que lo rodeo mientras crecía y estipula que eso realmente no ha cambiado y por eso su voz es tan poderosa ahora como lo era antes. La producción, de más de 15 personas, es muy floja, genérica e invisible en quien solo Tim Suby aporta algo decente al álbum. Near to be a pretty bad    ( 70/100 )

    Cerca de ser un muy mal album, Eminem se enfoca en todo el dolor, la hostilidad y violencia que lo rodeo mientras crecía y estipula que eso realmente no ha cambiado y por eso su voz es tan poderosa ahora como lo era antes. La producción, de más de 15 personas, es muy floja, genérica e invisible en quien solo Tim Suby aporta algo decente al álbum.

    Near to be a pretty bad album, Eminem focuses on all the pain, hostility and violence that surrounded him while growing up and stipulates that nothing has really changed, that's why his voice is still as important now as before. The production, of over 15 people, is very lazy, generic and invisible in which only Tim Suby puts in something decent in the album.    … Expand
  91. brashadcarr23
    Jan 22, 2020
    7
    his best album in quite some time if it was shorter id give it a 8. .............................
  92. Drudd
    Jan 17, 2020
    7
    Slim Shady back at with arguably his best project since The Eminem Show back in 2002. This may be Bold AF, but it’s just my opinion. Em displays his rapid fire barz and clever rhyme schemes as always but with some emotion to go over that. But what really stood out was the theme. It feels like an horror movie throughout the entire albums and it works pretty well.
  93. Rapfan123
    Jan 18, 2020
    7
    Eminem works well with all the features and strengths many soft spots from Kamikaze.
  94. Beowulf197
    Jan 17, 2020
    7
    Certainly a comeback for Eminem, liked the production and whole kinda spooky, Alfred Hitchcock theme he was going with, very nice. Also good to see that he is able to adapt to the changing landscape of rap. Strong release.
  95. MovieFan9338
    Jan 21, 2020
    7
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Essentially, this is a return to form for Eminem. If you thought that Kamikaze was controversial, you will be thoroughly shocked, frightened, and/or disturbed by many of the lyrics contained on this album. While it's still not quite the horrorcore of Eminem's very early days, Music To Be Murdered By is incredibly violent, and gleefully contains some of the most clever lyrics since MMLP2.

    Yet Eminem is, as he has always said he is, cognizant of the brutality of many of his lyrics. Throughout, many references are made to the epidemic of public shootings, most prominently in the track "Darkness", for which I must give Em credit for being more artistically creative and respectful than other such charged songs as "Campaign Speech" and "Untouchable". (Spoiler: On a side note, the way he uses vague lyrics on that track to appear as though he is playing himself, only near the end to reveal that he is playing an entirely different character, with a much different and sinister intent, is well done. Think the first few verses of "Bad Guy" from MMLP2.)

    Unfortunately, the second half of the album (essentially after "My Stepdad") loses the momentum and creativity it starts with. "I WILL", one of the 3 (wow) tracks which Royce da 5'9" is a guest on, does provide a nice conclusion to the album with giving a subtle but classic middle finger to Eminem's critics of the last 2 albums , yet it seems that Em simply relied on lyrical formulas already used and disappointing basic hooks, probably just to meet a quota of tracks demanded upon by Interscope Records for most of the album.

    Odds are that if you are an OG Eminem fan, you will probably like the tone of the album, viewed through Em's lyrical wordplay. "Godzilla" is my favorite track off of the album, and will most likely be the most popular as well (sorry "Darkness", but you're no "This Is America"). It contains a very catchy chrous by the late Juice WRLD and a finale at which Em raps at "supersonic speed", which I have a feeling is faster than the notorious "summa lumma" verse of "Rap God". The first 2 tracks also provide a great introduction to the Music To Be Murdered By

    With Eminem seeming to murder his pop ways (but that's not to say his relationship and career with Ed Sheeran is dead), Eminem seems to be playing the "Do-whatever-will-please-the-fans-and-make-money card". But it seems to work, for now. This album will hopefully make atonement for his less than typical, sub-par work from Revival and Kamikaze, restore our faith, and provide Em the opportunity to continue to reinvent himself in whatever way he decides next. If you wish to just casually listen, I recommend "Unaccommodating" "Godzilla" and for its importance, "Darkness", and maybe just try jumping around the first chronological half of the album.    … Expand
  96. irwinschwartz
    Jan 17, 2020
    7
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. From the second the album starts there is this feeling of "Eminem is back baby!". This feeling is so suddenly because of the first track "Premonition-Intro" which consists of Eminem rapping about how everyone thought Kamikaze was terrible and now he's back and better. The theme of this album is that the listener is listening to the album and by the end will be murdered. This is explained through a series of spoken word interludes titled "Alfred" where a person impersonating Alfred Hitchcock talks. The beginning of the album is very good except that the references to guns and violence became a bit excessive, especially on the track "Unaccommodating", a trap banger, where Eminem compares himself to several controversial figures, terrorists, and serial killers (Saddam Hussein, Ayatollah Khomeini, Osama bin Laden, John Wayne Gacy) and makes pointless, unnecessary references to the bombing at the Ariana Grande concert and 9/11. On the track "Darkness" Eminem puts himself in the shoes of the Las Vegas Shooter to make a point about gun violence. While I think his heart is in the right place, I don't think the way he did it was the best. There are bad features by Ed Sheeran and Juice WRLD on "Those Kinda Nights" and "Godzilla", respectively. The gun theme becomes very excessive with the over-the-top use of gunshot instrumentals. By the middle of the record, the tracks become increasingly rock influenced with songs like "Yah Yah" a good song but with a grating refrain, and "Stepdad" where Eminem describes an abusive stepfather who ends being beaten to death by his stepson. This song has a very catchy chorus and is one of my favorites. On the track "Marsh" there is some masterful wordplay which is very entertaining. I was looking forward to Anderson .Paak's feature when is saw it on the tracklist because Anderson is one of my favorite artists, but it utterly disappointed on the track "Lock it Up" Don Toliver has a great feature on the song "No Regrets" towards the end of the album. And finally the last track " I Will" which was good but not anywhere near the best on the album. In the Outro the Alfred Hitchcock character tells the listener that we actually imagined some of the album and that if we are still alive "better luck next time". This is a haunting note to leave off on. While this record is better than Kamikaze and Revival by leaps and bounds, it still has its flaws

    Favorite Tracks: You gon' learn, Darkness, No Regrets, Stepdad,
    Least Favorite Tracks: Those Kinda Nights, Lock it Up
    Best Features: Royce da 5'9'', White Gold, Skylar Grey, Don Toliver
    Worst Features: Ed Sheeran, Juice WRLD, Anderson .Paak    … Expand
  97. Dtv89
    Jan 21, 2020
    7
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. An absolute masterpiece! The critics giving this bad reviews are not intelligent enough to comprehend the double entendres and complex or recognize a complex rhyme scheme. They skim over it and miss 90% of the depth.… Expand
  98. Jdfx
    Jan 21, 2020
    7
    A solid album that gives an impression that Eminem is coming back to the right shape.
    There are still some minor flaws like silly puns that brings nothing to the table, a couple of weird beat choices and hooks (Hello, Skylar and Ed), but it doesn't really bother that much once you are concentrate on everything that is good about this album.
  99. Realraps1
    Jan 22, 2020
    7
    A future classic without a doubt. On par with MMLP2 at this moment but without a doubt will be considered very high in Eminems discography by all of hip hop fans.
  100. JoeTG9
    Nov 12, 2021
    7
    A good return to form for Eminem after a turbulent few years. The features do a great job, and Eminem absolutely holds his own
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Awards & Rankings

9
#9 Most Discussed Album of 2020

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
64

Generally favorable reviews - based on 17 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 7 out of 17
  2. Mixed: 10 out of 17
  3. Negative: 0 out of 17
  1. RapReviews.com
    Feb 11, 2020
    60
    He clearly cares about his output, but “Music To Be Murdered By” is, unfortunately, another mixed bag of tricks, propped up by lyrical acrobatics and underwhelming production.
    Read full review
  2. Punknews.org (Staff)
    Jan 30, 2020
    70
    If they look hard enough, any artist could find criticism of their work online. That’s sort of the curse of the Information Age. But not everyone overreacts quite as much as Eminem does. But if his fears grow tiring, his lyrical ability can still give you something to admire, even if the album is somewhat uneven.
    Read full review
  3. Pitchfork
    Jan 27, 2020
    55
    It is not, strictly speaking, a good record—Eminem hasn’t made one of those in a decade—but it boasts enough technical command and generates just enough arresting ideas to hold your attention.
    Read full review
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