Mike Shinoda vs. Eminem: From Nuclear Toddler to Nuclear Collab (Exclusive Interview)
What happens when two of the most influential rap artists of our generation meet on a Twitch livestream? Fans get to witness a candid and hilarious conversation between Mike Shinoda, the co-founder and co-lead vocalist of Linkin Park, and Eminem, the rap legend and icon.
On Thursday, February 1, 2024, Mike Shinoda hosted a Q&A session on Twitch, where he engaged with fans for an hour, creating an interactive and intimate space for fans to connect with the rock star. Shinoda answered questions ranging from his musical influences, his hobbies, his upcoming projects, and his thoughts on the current state of the rap industry.
“Battling Eminem? You mean imagine me like a toddler getting blown up by a nuclear weapon?” 😅
– in a new Twitch livestream, Mike Shinoda of Linkin Park briefly talked about Eminem. 👇 HTTPS://T.CO/41KFRCTUIR
— Southpawer (@Southpawer) FEBRUARY 1, 2024
One of the most interesting topics that came up during the livestream was Eminem, who has been a longtime friend and collaborator of Linkin Park. Shinoda and Eminem have worked together on several occasions, such as the mashup album Collision Course, the song Wretches and Kings, and the tribute concert for Chester Bennington.
However, some fans had a different idea of how Shinoda and Eminem should work together. One user commented: “Imagine Mike Shinoda having a rap battle with Eminem. Maybe they should go on epic rap battles of history as themselves!”
Shinoda laughed at the suggestion, and made a humorous comparison between himself and Eminem. “You mean imagine me like a toddler getting blown up by a nuclear weapon?” he said. “Eminem is the greatest freestyle rapper, greatest battle rapper of all time. I don’t give a s–t what anybody says.”
Shinoda expressed his admiration and respect for Eminem, who he considers to be one of his rap idols. He praised Eminem’s skills, his flow, his lyrics, and his impact on the rap culture. He also shared some stories of how he met Eminem, and how they bonded over their mutual love for music.
Another fan asked Shinoda if he would ever collaborate with Eminem on a musical project, saying that they grew up listening to both Linkin Park and Eminem, and that they would love to hear them on a track together. Shinoda responded with honesty and humility, saying that while he finds Eminem incredible, a collaboration is not on his to-do list.
“Am I gonna collab with Eminem? Probably not. I think Eminem is incredible but it’s not on to-do list.” he said. “I mean, I would love to, but I don’t think he needs me. He’s doing fine without me.”
Shinoda also explained that he prefers to work with artists who have a similar vision and style as him, and who can complement his strengths and weaknesses. He said that he enjoys collaborating with artists who challenge him, inspire him, and push him to grow as a musician.
The Twitch session ended with Shinoda thanking his fans for their support, their questions, and their enthusiasm. He also teased some of his upcoming projects, such as a new solo album, a graphic novel, and a video game. He encouraged his fans to follow him on his social media platforms, and to stay tuned for more updates.
The Q&A session was a rare and exclusive opportunity for fans to get a glimpse into the mind and personality of Mike Shinoda, one of the most influential and versatile artists of our generation. It also revealed his views on Eminem, one of the most legendary and iconic rap artists of all time. While a rap battle or a collaboration between them may seem unlikely, fans can still dream of the possibility of seeing them together on the same stage, or on the same track, creating history and magic with their words and music.
