Eminem made a powerful return to the MTV VMAs, opening the 2024 show with an electrifying medley of recent singles “Houdini” and “Somebody Save Me.” The rapper paid homage to his iconic 2000 VMAs performance, leading a group of Slim Shady lookalikes through the audience to the stage, a nod to his “The Real Slim Shady” entrance from over two decades ago.
The performance kicked off with “Houdini,” a lead single from his latest album, The Death of Slim Shady (Coup de Grâce), featuring an appearance from a Slim Shady double dressed as if he’d stepped out of the 2000 VMAs. As the energetic performance progressed, stars like Taylor Swift and Camila Cabello were seen dancing along in the crowd.
The mood shifted to a more contemplative tone as Eminem transitioned into “Somebody Save Me,” a collaboration with Jelly Roll, who appeared via a projected image on a massive black sphere, creating a surreal atmosphere. Eminem reflected on his personal struggles, pacing the stage while home videos of his children, Hailie, Alaina, and Stevie, played in the background. The emotional weight of the performance culminated in Eminem sitting in a living-room-style armchair, as Jelly Roll’s vocals echoed through the arena.
This performance marked Eminem’s first time opening the VMAs since 2010. His latest album, The Death of Slim Shady (Coup de Grâce), has garnered six nominations, including Video of the Year for “Houdini,” which featured cameos from hip-hop legends like Dr. Dre, 50 Cent, and Snoop Dogg.
Eminem’s return to the VMAs was both a celebration of his legacy and a reflection of his growth, blending the bold confidence of his past with a more introspective, reflective presence.