The Slim Shady returned to the stage for the first time since his estranged mother Debbie Nelson died from cancer, performing 'Without Me' which details their tumultuous relationship.
- Dec 9, 2024
AceShowbiz - Eminem performed at the F1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The "Mockingbird" rapper, born Marshall Mathers, took to the stage in front of approximately 40,000 fans at Etihad Park in the United Arab Emirates on Saturday night, December 7.
Eminem's return was highly anticipated following the tragic news of his mother Debbie Nelson's passing at the age of 69 amid her battle with advanced lung cancer. He delivered a memorable experience, as documented by fans on social media. One fan described the performance as "powerful."
Nelson passed away in St. Joseph, Missouri, three months after being informed that she was terminally ill. Eminem and his mother had a notoriously rocky relationship, which inspired many of his hit songs, including "Cleanin' Out My Closet" and "Without Me."
On the stage, Eminem performed his track "Without Me," which details his strained relationship with his mother. While he did not sing the scathing lyrics himself, the crowd joined in, chanting lines such as "F**k you Debbie." This moment further underscored the complicated history between the rapper and his mother.
Tensions were momentarily eased when Eminem released "Headlights" in 2013, expressing regret for his harsh words. "Now, I would never diss my own mama just to get recognition," he rapped, seeking to mend fences. Despite this, they remained mostly estranged in recent years, though reports indicated Eminem supported Nelson financially during her illness.
Nelson's late response before her death was one of reconciliation. She congratulated her son on his 2022 induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame via a heartfelt message, "Marshall, I want to say, I could not let this day go by without congratulating you on your induction into the Hall of Fame. I love you very much. I knew you'd get there. It's been a long ride. I'm very, very proud of you."
Eminem has yet to speak publicly about his mother's death, though his half-brother, Nathan "Nate" Kane Mathers, conveyed his mixed emotions in a heartfelt post on Instagram. Nate, who was adopted by Eminem during his teenage years, described Marshall as a significant father figure and role model in his life.
More than just a performance, Eminem's appearance at the Abu Dhabi F1 Grand Prix was a testament to his ability to channel personal pain into his artistry. It reminded fans and critics alike of the depth of his emotional experiences and the poignant, sometimes painful, backstory that fuels his powerful music.
