In 1999, Eminem, then a rising star in the rap scene, unleashed his groundbreaking single "My Name Is" onto the world. Little did he know at the time that the accompanying music video would become a cultural phenomenon, etching its way into the annals of hip-hop history. Recently, Eminem took fans on a journey behind the scenes of this iconic video in the newly released Vevo Footnotes edition, shedding light on some of its most intriguing secrets.
According to Eminem's notes, the genesis of the "My Name Is" video stemmed from a spontaneous moment during his first session with Dr. Dre. As the record spun and Dre dropped a needle, Eminem found himself instinctively uttering the now-famous line, "Hi, my name is." Inspired by this moment, he retreated to his Los Angeles apartment and penned the verses that would shape his introduction to the world.
Teaming up with director Phillip Atwell a few months later, Eminem brought his vision to life. One of the most memorable scenes from the video involved a "dummy" scenario, where Eminem was puppeteered by a ventriloquist. To achieve the desired effect, they enlisted the help of Gheorge Murasan, a towering figure standing at 7-foot-7, who played the role of the ventriloquist. Eminem fondly recalls Murasan's willingness to partake in the offbeat scene, showcasing his sense of humor and commitment to the project.
Another standout moment in the video was Eminem's portrayal of President Bill Clinton, a role he embraced with gusto. However, amidst the hilarity of the scene, Eminem playfully denies any suggestion of drug use, quipping that although his eyes may suggest otherwise, it's merely a rumor.
As the video approaches its 25th anniversary, Eminem reflects on its enduring legacy. While he doubts his ability to pen an update to the song in 2024, he humorously ponders the idea of having "Bye, My Name Was" etched on his tombstone, a testament to the impact of his work on the hip-hop landscape.
The Vevo Footnotes edition of Eminem's "My Name Is" video offers fans a rare glimpse into the creative process behind one of rap's most iconic visuals. It underscores the spontaneity, humor, and sheer audacity that have come to define Eminem's illustrious career, leaving an indelible mark on music history.
Listen to it here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C2dhJiHQDgU
Source : rollingstone.com