Eminem, one of hip-hop’s most iconic figures, has always been vocal about his origins and the people who shaped his journey. In a rare, heartfelt reflection, he acknowledged the crucial role his late uncle Ronnie played in introducing him to rap, a genre that would eventually define his life and career. “My uncle Ronnie started liking rap before I did and then he introduced me to it,” Eminem shared, offering fans a glimpse into a deeply personal chapter of his story.

Growing up in Detroit, Eminem’s early years were marked by hardship and a constant search for belonging. While the streets of Detroit were tough, it was his family, and particularly his bond with his uncle, that offered him an escape. Ronnie, who was just a few years older, saw the potential of rap music long before it hit the mainstream. Through Ronnie, Eminem found a connection to hip-hop, a genre that would become his passion and lifeline.

Ronnie introduced Eminem to classic rap records, immersing him in the rhythms and wordplay that would inspire his unique style. This early exposure was pivotal, setting him on a path that would eventually lead to his emergence as Slim Shady and a meteoric rise to fame. Eminem’s style—raw, gritty, and unfiltered—echoes the influence of those formative years with his uncle.

But this story is not without tragedy. Ronnie tragically passed away in 1991, a devastating loss that Eminem has spoken about in interviews and even referenced in his music. Ronnie’s influence, however, remains a source of motivation and inspiration for him. Over the years, Eminem has honored his uncle’s memory through lyrics and dedication, often attributing his love of rap to the man who introduced him to it.

Eminem’s acknowledgment of Ronnie’s influence underscores a powerful reminder of the impact family and mentors can have on shaping lives. In sharing his personal connection to hip-hop, Eminem offers a touching tribute to his uncle’s lasting legacy—one that lives on through every rhyme and verse that Eminem delivers.