🎵Eminem – Godzilla feat. Juice WRLD: Meaning, Chart Success, Reviews & Fascinating Trivia
📅 Published Date: 3/4/2020
👁️ View Counts: 61,975,865+ [62.0M+]
👍 Like Counts: 1,424,120+ [1.4M+]
💬 Comment Counts: 45,536+
⏱️ Duration: 03:33
🎧 Spotify:
🎶 Track Name: Godzilla (feat. Juice WRLD)
🎤 Artist: Eminem, Juice WRLD
💿 Album: Music To Be Murdered By
📆 Release Date: 2020-01-17
🔥 Popularity: 82
🕒 Duration:03:30
💭 Meaning
“Godzilla” by Eminem featuring Juice WRLD is a high-energy, lyrically dense, and technically impressive track that explores themes of fame, mental health, personal struggles, and the relentless pressure of maintaining his position in the rap game. It’s a showcase of Eminem’s rapid-fire flow and complex rhyme schemes, coupled with Juice WRLD’s melodic and vulnerable vocals. Here’s a breakdown of the song’s meaning:
Overall Theme: The Burden of Greatness and the Inner Turmoil of a Rap God
The overarching theme is the weight Eminem carries as one of the greatest and most influential rappers of all time. He likens himself to Godzilla, a destructive force of nature, to convey the immense power and impact of his words. However, this power comes at a price. He struggles with mental health issues, self-doubt, and the constant pressure to live up to expectations. The song is a raw and honest portrayal of the internal struggles of a public figure battling his own demons.
Verse 1: Re-Emergence and Unstoppable Force
“Uh, I’m beginning to feel like a rap god, rap god”: This opening line is a callback to his earlier hit “Rap God,” but with a subtle change. He’s beginning to feel like it again, suggesting a period of self-doubt or questioning his own relevance. He acknowledges the legacy he built but feels the pressure to reclaim that title.
“All my people from the front to the back nod, back nod”: This reinforces his continued influence and the connection he still has with his fans.
“Now, who thinks their arms are long enough to slap box, slap box?”: This is a challenge to anyone who dares to disrespect or challenge him. He’s daring anyone to come at him, confident in his abilities.
“They said I rap like a robot, so call me Rapbot”: Eminem addresses criticisms about his complex and sometimes robotic delivery. He owns the criticism and reclaims it as a badge of honor.
“But for me to rap like a computer it must be in my genes”: He suggests his skill isn’t simply imitation but inherent to his being.
“I got a laptop in my back pocket”: A metaphor for his brain being a powerful computer, capable of generating complex rhymes and flows.
“My pen’ll go off when I half-cock it”: His pen (his ability to write) is always ready to fire off, even with minimal effort.
“Got a fat knot from that profit made from that stock, watch what I stack, chock”: He’s flaunting his financial success and the wealth he’s accumulated from his career. “Chock” refers to the immense amount he’s stacking.
“Godzilla, fire spitter, monster, blood on the dance floor”: He fully embraces the Godzilla persona, highlighting his destructive force, both musically and metaphorically. “Blood on the dance floor” suggests the casualties of his lyrical attacks.
“I don’t play no games, I’m ’bout to wreck your car”: He’s not messing around; he’s serious about his craft and his dominance in the rap game.
Verse 2: Internal Struggles and Imposter Syndrome
“Every time I try to make a point, y’all raise suspicion”: He feels misunderstood and constantly scrutinized, even when he’s trying to be genuine.
“Sayin’ I’m dissin’ women? Man, this is misogyny?”: Addressing past criticisms of misogynistic lyrics and questioning the accusations.
“How many women are angry at me? This many”: He sarcastically acknowledges the criticism and the perception that he objectifies women.
“I am not the reason why your girl is leavin’ you”: He deflects responsibility for relationship issues, implying that his lyrics are not the root cause.
“But I keep tellin’ myself I gotta stop poppin’ for these women”: He recognizes that he needs to change his behavior and lyrics to avoid further controversy. “Poppin'” refers to taking a dig or shot at them.
“If I ever start to lose my head, I’m gonna have to chop it”: He’s aware of his potential for self-destruction and the need to stay grounded. This line is dark, hinting at suicidal thoughts as a way to escape the pressures he faces.
“Like a witch did to Hansel and Gretel who’s handin’ you the candy”: He acknowledges that he’s like the witch offering temptation (fame and fortune) but ultimately leading to a negative outcome for others who try to follow his path.
“But it ain’t that simple, no, I never get any sympathy”: He feels like his struggles are often dismissed and that people lack empathy for his situation because of his success.
“You can be the king but watch, the queen will conquer”: A subtle acknowledgement that even with all his success, he’s vulnerable. The “queen” could be interpreted as a female rapper who could surpass him or a metaphor for the challenges he faces that could dethrone him.
Verse 3: The Monster Unleashed and Technical Prowess
“Lyrically I’m rippin’ everything, like Hulk Hogan with his shirt off”: He emphasizes his lyrical superiority, comparing himself to Hulk Hogan tearing his shirt off, a sign of immense power and dominance.
“The world is mine, I’m takin’ it all, no permission”: He feels entitled to his success and has no intention of relinquishing his position.
“Did you hear about the guy who said he was a lyricist?”: A mocking jab at other rappers who claim to be lyrically skilled.
“But got his skill took, took, took (Skill took!)”: Implying he’s surpassed and taken the skills of those who dared to challenge him.
“When I move you gotta move, what do you take me for, fool?”: Reinforces his dominance and control.
The incredibly fast section (the tongue-twisting part): This section is a pure display of Eminem’s technical skill and breath control. The rapid-fire delivery is almost inhuman and serves as a testament to his dedication and mastery of the art form. It’s designed to be impressive and intimidating.
“I’m just tryna show you that when it comes to this rappin’ shit, I’m HIM”: He’s solidifying his position as the ultimate rapper, “HIM,” a self-proclaimed God of Rap.
Juice WRLD’s Hook: Melancholy and Mortality
“I can swallow a bottle of alcohol and I’ll feel like Godzilla”: Juice WRLD’s hook adds a layer of vulnerability and darkness. He uses alcohol as a coping mechanism to feel powerful and in control, like Godzilla. This line is particularly poignant given Juice WRLD’s struggles with addiction and his untimely death.
“Better hit the deck like the card dealer”: A warning to anyone who dares to challenge him.
“My whole life, I’ve been a star, dealer”: He’s referring to his fame and the burdens it carries, but also hinting at his drug dealing past.
“It won’t get you too far”: A somber reflection on the limitations and potential pitfalls of fame and fortune. This adds a layer of regret and self-awareness.
Meaning and Interpretation
Power and Pressure: The song is about the intense pressure of being at the top and the struggle to maintain that position. Eminem’s Godzilla persona represents the powerful, destructive force he unleashes through his music.
Mental Health: Eminem explores his inner demons, his struggles with self-doubt, anger, and addiction. The song is a window into his complex psyche.
Legacy and Relevance: He grapples with the question of his continued relevance in the ever-evolving rap landscape. He’s determined to prove that he’s still a force to be reckoned with.
Technical Skill as Defense Mechanism: The sheer technical brilliance of the song, particularly the fast-paced section, serves as a shield. It’s a way of silencing critics and reasserting his dominance through sheer skill.
Mortality and Regret: Juice WRLD’s hook adds a layer of vulnerability and reminds the listener of the fleeting nature of fame and life. His lyrics, especially considering his tragic passing, add a layer of depth and pathos to the song.
Self-Awareness: While braggadocious, the song also showcases Eminem’s self-awareness, as he acknowledges his flaws, his past mistakes, and the criticisms he faces.
In conclusion, “Godzilla” is more than just a display of lyrical prowess. It’s a complex and introspective track that delves into the mind of a rap icon grappling with the weight of his legacy, his personal demons, and the pressures of fame. It’s a powerful and ultimately vulnerable expression of the struggles faced by someone who has reached the pinnacle of success. The inclusion of Juice WRLD’s hook provides a poignant and melancholic counterpoint to Eminem’s aggressive energy, creating a multifaceted and deeply resonant listening experience.
🍿 Reception
“Godzilla,” Eminem’s collaboration with Juice WRLD from his 2020 album Music to Be Murdered By, was met with a largely positive reception, lauded for its technical prowess, lyrical density, and energetic delivery, while also drawing some criticism for its perceived shock value and lack of thematic depth compared to Eminem’s earlier work.
Overall Reception:
Commercial Success: The song was a massive commercial success, peaking at number three on the Billboard Hot 100. It was a global hit, charting highly in numerous countries. This success was largely driven by the hype surrounding the collaboration and the song’s viral nature.
Critical Reception: Reviews were generally positive, but with some caveats. Many critics praised Eminem’s rapping ability, particularly the speed and complexity of his verses. Juice WRLD’s contribution was also highlighted, though some felt it was a bit underutilized.
Fan Reception: The song was extremely popular with Eminem’s fanbase, especially those who appreciate his technical skills and complex rhyme schemes. However, some older fans felt it lacked the emotional depth and storytelling of his earlier work.
Specific Praise:
Eminem’s Technical Skill: This was the most consistently praised aspect of the song. Critics and fans alike marveled at Eminem’s rapid-fire delivery and intricate rhyme schemes. The infamous “Godzilla” verse, where he raps 224 words in 31 seconds, broke records and became a viral sensation. Many described it as a showcase of his raw talent and technical mastery.
Juice WRLD’s Chorus: Juice WRLD’s hook was widely appreciated for its melodic quality and emotional resonance. His contribution provided a contrast to Eminem’s aggressive rapping and helped to make the song more accessible to a wider audience. The chorus was considered catchy and memorable, contributing significantly to the song’s replay value.
Production: The production, handled by D.A. Doman, was generally well-received for its intensity and energy. The beat was described as hard-hitting and well-suited to Eminem’s aggressive delivery.
Energy and Intensity: Reviewers often commented on the high energy and intensity of the song. Eminem’s performance was described as relentless and engaging.
Criticisms:
Lyrical Content: While Eminem’s technical skill was lauded, some critics felt that the lyrical content was lacking in substance and relied too heavily on shock value and references to pop culture. Some felt it was “rhyming for the sake of rhyming” rather than conveying a meaningful message.
Lack of Thematic Depth: Compared to Eminem’s earlier, more introspective work, “Godzilla” was seen by some as lacking in emotional depth and personal reflection. Some felt that it was more of a showcase of his rapping ability than a genuine expression of his thoughts and feelings.
Shock Value: Some criticized the song for relying too heavily on shock value and controversial lyrics. While this is a common element in Eminem’s music, some felt that in “Godzilla,” it felt gratuitous and unnecessary.
Juice WRLD’s Underutilization: While his contribution was praised, some felt that Juice WRLD’s talent was not fully utilized and that he could have had a more prominent role in the song. They argued that his part felt somewhat tacked on.
Repetitive Nature: A few critics found the relentless intensity of the song to be overwhelming and somewhat repetitive, arguing that it lacked dynamics and variation.
Examples of Reviews:
Variety: “Eminem’s ‘Godzilla’ is a whirlwind of lyrical dexterity and technical prowess… Juice WRLD’s chorus adds a welcome melodic counterpoint.”
NME: “While the track is undoubtedly impressive from a technical standpoint, it lacks the emotional depth that characterised some of Eminem’s best work.”
Consequence of Sound: “Godzilla is an undeniable banger thanks to Eminem’s unbelievable rapping ability and Juice WRLD’s infectious hook. However, the lyrical content feels somewhat hollow.”
Impact and Legacy:
“Godzilla” cemented Eminem’s status as a technical virtuoso and demonstrated his ability to remain relevant in a constantly evolving music landscape.
The song helped to introduce Juice WRLD to a wider audience and showcased his versatility as an artist.
The viral “Godzilla” verse became a cultural phenomenon, inspiring countless memes and challenges.
The song is considered one of the highlights of Eminem’s later career, demonstrating his continued ability to push the boundaries of rap music.
In summary, “Godzilla” was a commercially and critically successful song that showcased Eminem’s technical skill and benefited from a strong contribution from Juice WRLD. While some critics felt that the lyrical content and thematic depth were lacking, the song’s energy, intensity, and technical prowess made it a standout track on Music to Be Murdered By and a memorable addition to Eminem’s discography.*
📈 Chart Performance
Okay, let’s dive into the chart performance of “Godzilla” by Eminem featuring Juice WRLD. This song was a significant hit globally, reaching high positions across various charts. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
General Information:
Artist: Eminem ft. Juice WRLD
Song: Godzilla
Album: Music to Be Murdered By
Released: January 17, 2020
North America:
United States (Billboard Hot 100): #3
“Godzilla” debuted at number 3 on the Billboard Hot 100. This was a significant achievement, becoming Eminem’s 21st top 10 hit and Juice WRLD’s second posthumous top 10 hit, as well as his second overall.
The song remained on the chart for 32 weeks.
The song has been certified 8x Platinum by the RIAA
United States (Billboard Streaming Songs): #1
“Godzilla” reached number one on the Streaming Songs chart, selling 54.8 million US streams in it’s first week.
United States (Billboard Digital Song Sales): #1
“Godzilla” reached number one on the Digital Song Sales chart, selling 41,000 copies in it’s first week.
United States (Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs): #3
Canada (Canadian Hot 100): #1
“Godzilla” peaked at number one in Canada, achieving a very strong performance.
Europe:
United Kingdom (Official Charts Company): #1
“Godzilla” also hit number one in the UK. This solidified its global appeal.
It remained on the chart for 22 weeks.
Ireland (IRMA): #1
Australia (ARIA): #3
Austria (Ö3 Austria Top 40): #3
Belgium (Ultratop Flanders): #14
Belgium (Ultratop Wallonia): #18
Czech Republic (Singles Digitál Top 100): #3
Denmark (Hitlisten): #7
Finland (Suomen virallinen lista): #2
France (SNEP): #76
Germany (Official German Charts): #5
Greece (IFPI): #3
Hungary (Stream Top 40): #2
Italy (FIMI): #27
Netherlands (Single Top 100): #12
New Zealand (Recorded Music NZ): #1
Norway (VG-lista): #2
Poland (Polish Airplay Top 100): #67
Portugal (AFP): #1
Russia (TopHit): #4
Scotland (Official Charts Company): #1
Slovakia (Singles Digitál Top 100): #1
Spain (PROMUSICAE): #41
Sweden (Sverigetopplistan): #4
Switzerland (Schweizer Hitparade): #4
Asia:
Global 200 (Billboard): #3
The song debuted at number three on the Billboard Global 200, showing it had a wide reach, popularity, and influence around the world.
Singapore (RIAS): #12
Other Notable Chart Achievements & Information:
Speed and Lyrical Content: The song is known for its rapid-fire delivery, particularly in the third verse, which showcases Eminem’s impressive lyrical abilities. The lyrics, the flow, and the musical structure of the song drew significant media attention.
Juice WRLD’s Contribution: The feature from Juice WRLD, released shortly after his death, added a layer of poignancy to the song.
Music Video: The music video, directed by Cole Bennett, also contributed to the song’s popularity, gathering a huge amount of views on YouTube.
Certifications: The song received numerous certifications across various countries, recognizing its sales and streaming success.
Critical Reception: “Godzilla” received mixed to positive reviews, with critics praising Eminem’s technical skill and Juice WRLD’s chorus, but some criticized the song’s aggressive tone.
Key Takeaways:
“Godzilla” was a commercial success globally, reaching number one in several major markets like the UK, Canada, and Ireland.
It performed strongly in the US, reaching the top 3 of the Billboard Hot 100 and topping several other Billboard charts.
The song benefited from Eminem’s established fanbase and Juice WRLD’s popularity.
The song’s fast tempo and lyrical complexity made it a subject of discussion and admiration among music fans.
This information should give you a thorough understanding of the chart performance of “Godzilla.” Remember that chart positions can fluctuate, but this reflects the song’s success at the time of its release and shortly thereafter.
💡 Trivia
Alright, buckle up, here’s some interesting trivia about Eminem’s “Godzilla” featuring Juice WRLD:
Record-Breaking Rhyme Scheme: “Godzilla” is famous for Eminem’s incredible speed-rapping. In the third verse, he spits out a mind-boggling 224 words in just 31 seconds, averaging a blistering 7.2 words per second. This feat helped it earn a Guinness World Record for “Fastest Rap Verse on a Number One Hit.” Eminem previously held a similar record for “Rap God.”
Juice WRLD’s Posthumous Feature: The song was released just two weeks after Juice WRLD’s tragic death in December 2019, making it one of the first posthumous features from the beloved rapper. His appearance on the track became a poignant moment for his fans and added another layer of emotional weight to the song.
Collaboration Genesis: According to producer D.A. Got That Dope, he sent the beat to Eminem, who loved it instantly. Eminem then requested that Juice WRLD be featured on the track, and the collaboration was quickly finalized.
“Godzilla” Title Inspiration: The “Godzilla” title isn’t just a random choice. It reflects Eminem’s own self-image as a destructive force in the rap game. The lyrics directly reference Godzilla’s monstrous size and destructive power, drawing parallels to Eminem’s lyrical prowess and impact on the music industry.
Music Video Cameos: The music video, directed by Cole Bennett, is packed with cameos. Look out for appearances from Dr. Dre, Mike Tyson, and even a cardboard cutout of Juice WRLD, serving as a tribute.
Lyrical References: The lyrics contain numerous references to pop culture, other rappers, and Eminem’s own personal life. Listen closely for nods to his daughter Hailie, his struggles with addiction, and his place in hip-hop history.
Commercial Success: “Godzilla” was a massive commercial success, debuting at number three on the Billboard Hot 100. It became Eminem’s 20th Top 10 hit and Juice WRLD’s second.
Production Challenges: The producers faced some challenges ensuring Juice WRLD’s vocals sounded clear and fit seamlessly with Eminem’s. The goal was to maintain the emotional quality of Juice’s delivery while blending it seamlessly into the track’s high-energy atmosphere.
Impact on Popular Culture: The speed and intensity of Eminem’s verse led to countless reaction videos and attempts to replicate it, further cementing “Godzilla” as a cultural phenomenon. It became a challenge for aspiring rappers and a viral sensation on social media.
Legacy and Influence: “Godzilla” stands as a testament to Eminem’s enduring skill and Juice WRLD’s talent, solidifying their places in rap history. The song is celebrated for its technical brilliance, emotional depth, and the powerful combination of two distinct voices.
Hope you find these facts interesting! Let me know if you’d like to know more!
📝 Description:
From the album Music To Be Murdered By, out now: https://smarturl.it/MTBMB
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Directed by Kyle Cogan
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Music video by Eminem performing Godzilla (Lyric Video). © 2020 Marshall B. Mathers III
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