Slim Shady changed his opinions about the 2009 track as his life and career developed
Eminem confessed that he “cringes” whenever he hears his older songs, reflecting on his past releases from earlier in his long career.
Since releasing his debut album, Infinite, in 1996, Eminem has cemented his status as one of the most iconic rappers of all time. With a catalog of over 300 songs covering diverse themes, it’s natural that some tracks stand out as personal favorites while others evoke regret.
While fans may critique certain songs for their pacing or lyrics, Eminem’s own regrets stem from the emotional weight of one particular track. Looking back, he admits that some of his earlier work makes him cringe, reflecting on how his artistry and perspective have evolved over the years.
The song, from his 2002 album Without Me, delves into Eminem’s turbulent relationship with his mother, Debbie, highlighting their ongoing struggles and personal conflicts.
Eminem released his debut album in 1996 (Kevin Mazur/WireImage)
Three years before the song’s release, Debbie sued Eminem for slander and defamation, initially seeking $10 million but ultimately settling for $25,000.
Their strained relationship became even more public when Eminem released Cleanin’ Out My Closet, a track in which he openly expressed his resentment toward his mother. Using sharp and emotional lyrics, he detailed their troubled past, further solidifying their complex and controversial history.
In Cleanin’ Out My Closet, Eminem harshly criticizes his mother, calling her a “selfish b**ch” and wishing she would “burn in Hell.” He also accuses her of abusing prescription pills and vows to keep her away from his daughter. At the time, the song reflected his deep resentment, but as the years passed, his perspective evolved.
By 2013, Eminem’s feelings toward his mother had softened, leading him to release an apology track, Headlights. In this song, he expresses regret for the harsh words in Cleanin’ Out My Closet and acknowledges the complexities of their relationship, showing a more mature and understanding side of his journey with his mother.
In Headlights, Eminem reflects on his past resentment, admitting, “My mom probably got it the worst… but as stubborn as we are, did I take it too far?” He acknowledges the harshness of Cleanin’ Out My Closet and similar songs but ultimately expresses forgiveness. Despite their troubled past, he softens his tone, saying, “I don’t hate you… You’re still beautiful to me, ‘cause you’re my mom.”
Eminem later apologized for the track about his mom (Mark Weiss/Getty Images)
Eminem’s heartfelt apology continues in Headlights: “I’m sorry, mama, for Cleanin’ Out My Closet—I was angry at the time. Rightfully so, maybe, but I never meant to take it that far. Now I know it’s not your fault, and I’m not making jokes.” He further reveals his regret, admitting, “I no longer play that song at shows, and I cringe every time it’s on the radio.”
In Headlights, Eminem expresses forgiveness toward his mother, acknowledging that she “did [her] best” to raise him and his brother, Nathan.
He concludes his emotional apology with, “But I love you, Debbie Mathers—oh, what a tangled web we have.
And I’m mad I didn’t get the chance to thank you for being my mom and my dad.” Sadly, Debbie passed away in December 2024 at the age of 69.
