Eminem says there's another version of 'Lose Yourself' that he doesn't remember recording
In 2014, Eminem dropped a bombshell that sent fans into a frenzy: there’s another version of 'Lose Yourself'
The original version of 'Lose Yourself' debuted over 20 years ago as part of the 8 Mile soundtrack, quickly cementing its status as one of the most iconic rap songs of all time.
With its unforgettable opening riff and razor-sharp lyrics about seizing opportunity, the track not only dominated the charts but also earned Eminem a Best Original Song Oscar.
It’s been a fan favorite ever since, even making a triumphant appearance at the 2022 Super Bowl Halftime Show, where Eminem shared the stage with Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Kendrick Lamar, Mary J. Blige, and 50 Cent.
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But imagine if the 8 Mile anthem that fans know and love had been different.
In a video uploaded to Eminem’s official YouTube channel in 2014, the rapper revealed that a 'scratch' version of Lose Yourself exists - one that he has no recollection of creating.
“I don’t remember where I was at when I recorded it,” Eminem admitted in the clip. “I don’t remember any of the first verse. I don’t remember.”
The teaser then played a snippet of the alternate track, opening with the lines: “If I was frozen inside of a moment/If I could capture time inside a capsule.”
Fans immediately lit up the comment section, begging to hear more of the never-before-heard demo. One user exclaimed: “Damn, now I really wanna hear the full version of the parts of 'Lose Yourself' that never made the cut!!!”
And another wrote: “Good f**king God. One of his best songs could possibly be about to get better.”
It wasn’t long before the 'scratch' version was officially released, giving fans a glimpse into an alternate universe of 'Lose Yourself'.
The raw, unpolished demo still showcased Eminem’s unmatched lyrical prowess and left listeners in awe of the sheer talent behind it.
“Agh it’s like I’m in a parallel existence where everything’s the same but a bit different,” one fan commented, as another added: “The fact that he can write two versions of the same song, have both be impeccable, and not even remember recording one is just mind-blowing.”
The rediscovered demo quickly became a testament to Eminem’s genius, with fans praising how even a “throwaway” version of his work surpasses most other music.
“This is a throwaway demo and is still better than 90% of what is released today,” one fan remarked.
“It’s insane Em can record an entire song that’s as good as this and not remember it at all…what a GOAT.”
Though Eminem may have forgotten creating the alternate version of 'Lose Yourself', it has become a legendary piece of rap history.
Sara Keenan