On this day, January 25, in hip-hop history...

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1999: On Jan. 25, Eminem dropped his single, “My Name Is.” The satirical song with an infectious hook was the Detroit rapper's debut single from his major label debut album, The Slim Shady LP

As one of Dr. Dre's many rap protege's, Em knew he had to come out of the gate swinging with his first single. "My Name Is" took jabs at everyone from his school teachers to his own mother in three energetic, calculated verses all anchored by the repetitive but catchy chorus that introduced the world to his rap alter ego, Slim Shady. The track was released under Dre's label, Aftermath Entertainment and Interscope Records.

Though the lyrics of "My Name Is" sparked controversy, no one could deny Em's talent as a storyteller and showman. The single has been certified platinum 3 times by RIAA, won Eminem his first Grammy Award for Best Rap Solo Performance in 2000 and is listed by VH1 as one of the 100 Greatest Songs of the '90s.

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