Eminem‘s latest release, “Tobey”, has sent shockwaves through the hip-hop community, with many fans convinced that the rap legend is taking aim at Jay-Z. However, Royce Da 5’9″, Eminem’s longtime collaborator and friend, has stepped in to quash the rumors, insisting that the lyrics are not a diss track.
The controversy surrounds the lines “Ain’t feelin’ your top five favorite rappers / So I know they ’bout to be pissed at me / But this, to me, is a mystery / How rappers I’ve already ripped could be higher up on a list than me?” Many have interpreted this as a jab at Jay-Z, who topped Billboard’s list of the 50 best rappers last year. But according to Royce Da 5’9″, Eminem’s words are being misinterpreted.
Royce Da 5’9″ took to social media to set the record straight, stating that Eminem’s lyrics are actually a commentary on the music industry’s subjective rankings, rather than a personal attack on Jay-Z. He emphasized that Eminem’s focus is on his own artistry, not on fueling beefs or rivalries.
This isn’t the first time Eminem and Jay-Z have been linked in a supposed feud. Their 2001 collaboration on “Renegade” sparked debate over who outperformed whom, with even Nas weighing in on the topic. But it seems that this latest controversy has been put to rest, thanks to Royce Da 5’9″‘s clarification.
Eminem’s “Tobey” may have sparked a firestorm, but it’s clear that the real focus is on the music, not manufactured drama. With Royce Da 5’9″ setting the record straight, fans can now appreciate “Tobey” for what it is – another masterclass from one of hip-hop’s greatest.