Kendrick Lamar Shocks Fans ‘I Learned to Rap from Eminem – Now I’m a Legend!’

When it comes to rap legends, few names carry as much weight as Kendrick Lamar and Eminem. But did you know that the Pulitzer Prize-winning rapper once studied Eminem’s every move to master his craft?

Lamar openly admits that the Detroit rap god played a pivotal role in shaping his rap abilities. He didn’t just listen—he analyzed, dissected, and absorbed Eminem’s technique like a true student of the game.

For Lamar, Eminem wasn’t just another rapper—he was a blueprint for excellence. His ability to twist words, ride the beat, and deliver rhymes with laser-sharp precision left young Kendrick in awe. Unlike casual listeners, Lamar didn’t just enjoy the music—he made it his personal study material.

The Album That Changed Kendrick Lamar’s Life

Every rap legend has a moment of awakening—a defining experience that shapes their artistic journey. For Kendrick Lamar, that moment came when he first heard ‘The Marshall Mathers LP’.

Kendrick Lamar: “The day I heard Eminem’s album ‘The Marshall Mathers LP’, I was amazed. I thought, ‘How does he do that? How is he projecting his voice and rapping to the beat like that?’” 

This wasn’t just admiration—it was a revelation.

Hearing Eminem’s relentless flows, razor-sharp punchlines, and emotional depth flipped a switch in Kendrick’s mind. He realized that rapping wasn’t just about rhyming words—it was about creating an art form.

At that moment, he knew he had to learn—not just from any rapper, but from the best in the game.

From Fan to Future Rap Legend: Kendrick’s Determined Study of Eminem

Kendrick wasn’t content with just listening and enjoying Eminem’s music. He studied it like a textbook.

Instead of simply nodding his head to the beats, he would break down Eminem’s rhyme schemes, cadence, and breath control.

He replayed songs, memorized lyrics, and practiced relentlessly. Every bar, every syllable, every pause—Lamar was determined to master it all.

“I got to study his style of rap. I wanted to rap like him because it was his time, and he’s impeccable.”

This wasn’t just admiration—it was a dedicated learning process.

By the time he was 13 or 14, Kendrick had already developed Eminem-level rapping skills—a foundation that would later catapult him to the top of the rap game.

The goat acknowledges the goat! 

Fast forward to today, and Kendrick Lamar is considered one of the greatest lyricists of all time. He has won multiple Grammy Awards, topped Billboard charts, and even received a Pulitzer Prize for Music—an honor rarely given to hip-hop artists.

But despite his own legendary status, Lamar never forgets where he learned the craft. He gives full credit to Eminem for being his rap teacher.

“His type of rap skills were things I had to learn, and luckily, I learned them. Eminem is the GOAT!”

Coming from Kendrick Lamar, who is often called one of the most technically skilled rappers of this generation, this is the ultimate respect.

Eminem’s Influence on the New Generation of Rappers 

Kendrick Lamar isn’t the only rapper who acknowledges Eminem’s genius. Many of today’s top lyricists—J. Cole, Logic, Joyner Lucas, and even Drake—have cited Slim Shady as a major inspiration.

The reason? Eminem changed the game.

He broke barriers, proved that technical rapping can be both commercially successful and artistically groundbreaking, and pushed the limits of what’s possible in hip-hop.

Even if younger listeners don’t always blast Eminem in the clubs, artists in recording studios and bedrooms worldwide are studying his flow and lyricism.

The Underground vs. Mainstream Debate: Who’s Really Listening to Eminem? 

Despite Eminem’s record-breaking sales, some critics argue that nobody plays his music in clubs or cars. But here’s the irony:

“Many people say nobody bumps Eminem at the clubs or cars, yet artists be studying his work in their bedrooms!” 

The most influential rappers in the game—from Kendrick Lamar to J. Cole—admit they grew up learning from Eminem, proving that his impact goes far beyond the party scene.

Hip-hop isn’t just about club hits—it’s about legacy.

Eminem’s Lasting Impact on Hip-Hop’s Greatest Minds 

Whether or not his tracks dominate the club playlists, one thing is undeniable—Eminem shaped an entire generation of elite lyricists.

His storytelling, his aggressive flow, and his unapologetic approach to music have left a permanent mark on hip-hop.

Some artists make hits, and some artists change the culture. Eminem did both.

And if one of today’s greatest rappers—Kendrick Lamar—calls him the GOAT, who are we to argue?

Eminem’s Evolution: Why His Influence Still Matters Today

Even after decades in the game, Eminem’s impact hasn’t faded—it has evolved. His ability to reinvent himself, stay lyrically sharp, and continue dominating rap battles and charts proves why he remains a force in hip-hop. New artists still reference his flawless rhyme schemes, his ability to paint vivid stories, and his fearless approach to controversial topics. While trends change, Eminem’s technical mastery is timeless. That’s why legends like Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, and Logic continue to pay tribute—because real rap isn’t just about hype, it’s about craftsmanship

The Legacy of a Rap Genius

Eminem’s impact on hip-hop is undeniable. His influence stretches beyond just hits—he shaped a generation of elite lyricists. Whether through his intricate wordplay, storytelling, or unmatched flow, his legacy remains etched in rap history. Even today, his artistry continues to inspire the next wave of MCs.