🎵Eminem – Walk On Water: Meaning, Chart Success, Reviews & Fascinating Trivia
📅 Published Date: 12/24/2017
👁️ View Counts: 80,879,423+ [80.9M+]
👍 Like Counts: 1,291,643+ [1.3M+]
💬 Comment Counts: 80,374+
⏱️ Duration: 05:22
🎧 Spotify:
🎶 Track Name: Walk On Water (feat. Beyoncé)
🎤 Artist: Eminem, Beyoncé
💿 Album: Revival
📆 Release Date: 2017-12-15
🔥 Popularity: 52
🕒 Duration:05:03
💭 Meaning
“Walk On Water” by Eminem, featuring Beyoncé, is a deeply introspective and self-critical song that dissects the pressures and anxieties of living up to a legendary status in the rap game. It’s a vulnerable exploration of self-doubt, the fear of falling from grace, and the struggle to maintain artistic integrity in the face of overwhelming expectations. Here’s a breakdown of the song’s meaning:
Core Themes:
The Burden of Expectations: The song’s central theme revolves around the crushing weight of expectations that come with being hailed as one of the greatest rappers of all time. Eminem grapples with the constant pressure to deliver another masterpiece, to surpass his previous work, and to consistently innovate. He feels burdened by the belief that he’s expected to perform miracles, hence the title “Walk On Water.”
Self-Doubt and Insecurity: Despite his legendary status, Eminem confesses to profound self-doubt and insecurity. He questions his ability to consistently meet the impossibly high standards set for him, even going so far as to wonder if he’s losing his touch. This vulnerability challenges the perceived invincibility often associated with his persona.
The Fear of Failure: Closely tied to self-doubt is the fear of failure, the fear of letting down his fans, and the fear of no longer being relevant. He worries about releasing music that doesn’t live up to expectations and the potential for criticism and ridicule. He recognizes that the higher you climb, the harder you fall.
Artistic Integrity vs. Commercial Success: Eminem also touches on the tension between maintaining artistic integrity and chasing commercial success. He seems to lament the pressure to create commercially viable music, even if it means sacrificing his artistic vision. He questions whether he’s compromised his art in an attempt to stay relevant.
The Myth of Perfection: The song dismantles the idea of perfection and the unrealistic expectations placed on artists. Eminem argues that even legends are human, flawed, and susceptible to doubt and insecurities. He suggests that the idea of consistently “walking on water” is an impossible standard.
Detailed Breakdown of Lyrics & Sections:
Beyoncé’s Intro/Chorus: Beyoncé’s soaring vocals emphasize the unattainable ideal of perfection. Her lyrics, “I walk on water, but I ain’t no Jesus,” highlight the human fallibility even in those who seem to possess extraordinary talent. It’s a powerful counterpoint to the pressure Eminem feels to constantly deliver miracles. She establishes that even legends bleed and are not impervious to doubt.
Eminem’s First Verse: This verse sets the stage for his internal struggle. He directly addresses the burden of expectations: “Why are expectations so high? / Is it the bar I set?” He questions whether he’s responsible for the pressure he feels, suggesting that his previous successes have created an impossible standard. He also references his past controversies and how they’ve contributed to his larger-than-life image. He acknowledges the audience’s hunger for another groundbreaking album but struggles with the daunting task of meeting those demands.
Eminem’s Second Verse: This verse delves deeper into his insecurities and the fear of falling from grace. He admits to having “moments when I question why I even do it,” revealing a deep-seated doubt about his purpose and motivation. He acknowledges the potential for backlash and criticism if he releases subpar music, foreshadowing the criticism his later album, Revival, would indeed receive. He wrestles with the idea of retiring, questioning whether he should bow out gracefully while he’s still on top.
Eminem’s Third Verse: This is perhaps the most raw and vulnerable verse. He reveals the frustration he feels when his attempts at reinvention are met with skepticism. He raps about trying to be different and push boundaries, but facing criticism for deviating from his established style. He acknowledges that there are younger, hungrier rappers nipping at his heels, further fueling his anxieties. He expresses a deep-seated fear of being irrelevant and fading into obscurity. He even laments the tools of the trade, implying his trusty notebook and pen feel useless in the current rap climate.
Bridge: The bridge acts as a crucial moment of self-acceptance. He acknowledges that he is not a god or a superhero, but a flawed and imperfect human being. This acceptance allows him to move forward, embracing his humanity and rejecting the unrealistic expectations placed upon him. He essentially gives himself permission to be imperfect.
Musicality and Tone:
The Somber Instrumental: The song’s instrumental is deliberately understated and melancholic, reflecting the somber mood of the lyrics. The lack of a traditional hip-hop beat underscores the introspective nature of the song, shifting the focus from bravado to vulnerability.
Beyoncé’s Haunting Vocals: Beyoncé’s vocals are ethereal and haunting, creating a sense of longing and emphasizing the unattainable ideal of perfection. Her voice acts as a constant reminder of the high standards Eminem feels compelled to meet.
Eminem’s Delivery: Eminem’s delivery is notably more restrained and introspective than his typical aggressive style. He raps with a sense of weary resignation, conveying the weight of his anxieties and insecurities.
Overall Interpretation:
“Walk On Water” is not a boastful anthem; it’s a confession. It’s Eminem stripping away the persona of the invincible rap god and revealing the vulnerable human being beneath. It’s a powerful commentary on the pressures of fame, the burden of expectations, and the struggle to maintain artistic integrity in a world that constantly demands perfection. The song ultimately argues that it’s okay to be flawed, to doubt yourself, and to acknowledge the human limitations, even when the world expects you to perform miracles. It’s a raw and honest exploration of the challenges faced by even the most legendary artists in maintaining relevance and sanity in a rapidly evolving world. It invites listeners to consider the human cost behind the art and to recognize that even their idols are susceptible to the same doubts and insecurities as everyone else.
🍿 Reception
“Walk On Water,” featuring Beyoncé, was released in 2017 as the lead single from Eminem’s album Revival. It’s a deeply introspective and vulnerable track where Eminem grapples with the weight of his legacy, self-doubt, and the pressures of living up to the near-mythical expectations fans have placed upon him. Its reception was incredibly divisive, marking a significant turning point in how Eminem was perceived by both critics and fans. Here’s a breakdown:
Overall Reception:
Divisive and Polarizing: This is the key takeaway. “Walk On Water” wasn’t universally loved like some of Eminem’s earlier, more bombastic hits. It sparked a lot of debate and disagreement.
Mixed Critical Reviews: Critics were split, with some praising its honesty and introspection, while others found it boring, self-indulgent, and lacking the energy expected from an Eminem lead single.
Mixed Fan Reaction: Long-time Eminem fans were particularly conflicted. Some appreciated the vulnerability and the shift in tone, seeing it as a mature reflection on his career. Others missed the aggressive, witty, and technically dazzling Eminem they had come to expect and considered it a disappointing departure.
Commercial Success (Moderate): Despite the mixed reception, the song still achieved moderate commercial success, reaching the top 20 in several countries, including the US and UK. However, it didn’t achieve the same level of chart dominance as some of his previous hits.
Positive Aspects Highlighted in Reviews and Fan Reactions:
Honesty and Vulnerability: Many appreciated Eminem’s willingness to expose his insecurities and self-doubt. The lyrics about struggling with writer’s block, questioning his relevance, and fearing disappointing his fans were seen as refreshingly honest.
Mature Reflection: The song was seen by some as a sign of Eminem’s growth and maturity as an artist. It demonstrated a willingness to move beyond his established persona and explore more complex themes.
Beyoncé’s Vocals: Beyoncé’s soaring vocals on the chorus were almost universally praised. Her contribution added a layer of emotional depth and gravitas to the song. Her voice was considered to be angelic and powerful, elevating the track.
Interesting Production: The understated, piano-driven production was seen by some as a brave choice that allowed Eminem’s lyrics to take center stage. It created a somber and reflective atmosphere.
Introspective Lyrics: The lyrics dive deep into Eminem’s psyche, questioning his position in hip-hop and his ability to live up to the almost mythical persona the world has placed upon him. This self-awareness was seen as a strength.
Negative Aspects Highlighted in Reviews and Fan Reactions:
Boring and Uninspired: A common criticism was that the song was simply boring. Some found the piano-driven beat too monotonous and lacking in energy.
Self-Pitying: Some critics and fans felt that Eminem came across as overly self-pitying and whiny, dwelling too much on his own struggles instead of offering something more engaging.
Lyrical Fatigue: While some praised the lyrics, others felt that they were repetitive and lacked the clever wordplay and punchlines that had become Eminem’s trademark.
Disappointing Lead Single: Many felt that “Walk On Water” was a weak choice for a lead single, arguing that it didn’t represent the energy and excitement that fans expect from Eminem.
Lack of Punchlines: The absence of the rapid-fire, punchline-heavy rapping that Eminem is known for was a major disappointment for many fans. They missed the technical prowess and lyrical acrobatics.
Misuse of Beyoncé: Some felt Beyoncé’s talent was underutilized. Her chorus was beautiful, but some argued she could have been incorporated more creatively into the song.
Tone Clash: The serious, introspective tone of “Walk On Water” clashed with some of the more controversial and juvenile content on the Revival album, creating a sense of disconnect.
Key Critical Quotes (Examples):
(Positive) “It’s a brutally honest, albeit somewhat repetitive, meditation on the burdens of fame and the pressure to constantly deliver greatness.”
(Negative) “Eminem’s vulnerability feels strangely performative, lacking the authenticity that could make it truly compelling.”
(Negative) “Walk On Water is a ponderous bore, a reminder that even the best artists can stumble when they aim for profundity and miss.”
Impact and Legacy:
Shift in Eminem’s Public Image: “Walk On Water” arguably contributed to a shift in Eminem’s public image. He was increasingly seen as an artist who was willing to take risks and explore different sonic and thematic territory, even if it meant alienating some fans.
Setting the Tone for Revival: The song set the tone for the Revival album, which was itself a critically divisive project.
Fueling Debate About Eminem’s Relevance: “Walk On Water” fueled a broader debate about Eminem’s relevance in contemporary hip-hop. Some argued that he was out of touch with current trends, while others defended his artistic choices.
- Highlighting Fan Expectations: The song also highlighted the immense pressure that Eminem faces from his fanbase, who have come to expect a certain level of brilliance and innovation from him.
In conclusion, “Walk On Water” was a complex and controversial song that sparked a great deal of discussion about Eminem’s artistry and place in hip-hop. While some praised its honesty and vulnerability, others found it boring and self-indulgent. Its legacy is one of a pivotal moment in Eminem’s career, marking a departure from his established formula and a willingness to challenge expectations.
📈 Chart Performance
Okay, let’s dive into the chart performance of Eminem’s “Walk On Water,” featuring Beyoncé.
Song Information:
Artist: Eminem featuring Beyoncé
Released: November 10, 2017
Album: Revival
Label: Aftermath/Shady/Interscope
Overall Summary:
“Walk On Water” was a significant release, being Eminem’s comeback single and featuring Beyoncé. It had a strong initial impact on charts due to the artists involved, but its long-term performance was somewhat mixed. It charted high initially due to sales and streaming spikes but didn’t have exceptional staying power compared to some of Eminem’s other hits. The reception to the song itself was also mixed, which likely affected its longevity.
Detailed Chart Performance (Key Regions):
United States (Billboard Hot 100):
Peak Position: #14
Chart Debut: #14
Weeks on Chart: 14 weeks
Details: The song debuted strongly at #14, buoyed by massive streaming and sales in its first week. However, it didn’t climb higher and gradually descended from the chart. It remained in the top 40 for only a few weeks.
United Kingdom (Official Charts Company):
Peak Position: #7
Chart Debut: #7
Weeks on Chart: 11 weeks
Details: Similar to the US, “Walk On Water” had a strong debut in the UK, reaching the top 10. However, its chart trajectory was a decline over the following weeks.
Australia (ARIA Charts):
Peak Position: #9
Chart Debut: #9
Weeks on Chart: 7 weeks
Details: Again, debuted strongly and then had a rapid decline.
Canada (Canadian Hot 100):
Peak Position: #10
Chart Debut: #10
Weeks on Chart: 11 weeks
Details: Followed the same pattern as other countries: strong debut, quick decline.
Germany (Official German Charts):
Peak Position: #16
Chart Debut: #16
Weeks on Chart: 15 weeks
France (SNEP):
Peak Position: #20
Chart Debut: #20
Weeks on Chart: 12 weeks
Ireland (IRMA):
Peak Position: #6
Chart Debut: #6
Weeks on Chart: 8 weeks
Sweden (Sverigetopplistan):
Peak Position: #14
Chart Debut: #14
Weeks on Chart: 8 weeks
Other Notable Charts:
Many other European countries saw similar patterns: a high debut followed by a steady decline.
The song also charted in various digital song sales charts, reflecting initial purchase interest.
Factors Influencing Chart Performance:
Initial Hype: The collaboration between Eminem and Beyoncé generated significant anticipation and media coverage. This led to high initial sales and streams.
Mixed Reception: Critical and public reception to the song was mixed. Some praised its vulnerability and message, while others found it underwhelming compared to Eminem’s previous work. The piano-driven, somewhat subdued sound was a departure from his more aggressive tracks. This mixed reception likely affected its long-term appeal.
Lack of Strong Radio Play: While the song received some radio airplay, it wasn’t a massive radio hit, which hindered its ability to sustain its chart position.
Competition: The song was released during a period with a lot of competition from other high-profile artists and popular songs.
Album Context: As the lead single for Revival, the song’s performance was intertwined with the album’s overall reception. Revival itself received mixed reviews, which could have indirectly affected the song’s long-term popularity.
Certifications (Examples):
United States (RIAA): Platinum
United Kingdom (BPI): Gold
Australia (ARIA): Platinum
Canada (Music Canada): Platinum
Key Takeaways:
“Walk On Water” was a commercially successful song, particularly in its debut.
The song’s chart trajectory indicates that it relied heavily on initial hype and artist recognition.
Mixed critical and public reception, competition from other songs, and potentially limited radio play contributed to its relatively short chart lifespan.
Despite not being a long-lasting chart topper, it achieved certifications in multiple countries, indicating significant sales and streaming figures.
In conclusion, “Walk On Water” was a significant release that performed well initially but lacked the staying power of some of Eminem’s biggest hits. Its chart performance reflects the complex interplay of artist recognition, initial hype, song reception, and the competitive music landscape.
💡 Trivia
Okay, here are some interesting trivia facts about Eminem’s “Walk On Water”:
Beyoncé’s Contribution: Beyoncé’s vocals were recorded separately from Eminem and sent to him. They didn’t actually collaborate in the same studio. This is not uncommon in modern music production.
Vulnerable Theme: The song is a very vulnerable and introspective track where Eminem openly questions his own legacy and impact. It explores the pressure of living up to expectations and the fear of falling from grace, something not always associated with his earlier, more aggressive persona.
Sparse Instrumentation: The song is remarkably sparse, relying heavily on piano and subtle electronic elements. This was a deliberate choice to keep the focus on Eminem’s lyrics and Beyoncé’s vocals, creating a raw and emotional atmosphere.
“SNL” Performance: The song’s live debut on Saturday Night Live was a stripped-down performance featuring Skylar Grey on piano. Eminem was alone on stage, which added to the vulnerability and introspective nature of the song. Many fans were surprised that Beyoncé didn’t appear.
Hidden Message in Album Art: The album artwork for Revival (the album “Walk on Water” appeared on) features an American flag drooping and distorted, which some fans interpreted as a commentary on the state of America or a symbol of his feeling of disillusionment.
Title’s Multiple Interpretations: The title “Walk On Water” has multiple layers of meaning. It alludes to the biblical story of Jesus walking on water, which suggests the immense and unrealistic expectations placed upon Eminem. But it can also be read sarcastically, suggesting the impossibility of living up to such expectations.
The “Revival” Debate: “Walk on Water” was the lead single from “Revival,” and its reception was somewhat mixed. Some critics and fans appreciated its vulnerability and introspection, while others found it slow-paced and underwhelming, especially compared to Eminem’s more aggressive and energetic tracks. This led to a lot of debate and conversation about the direction of his career.
Piano Sample Speculation: While not officially confirmed, many listeners have noted the song’s piano melody is reminiscent of the classical piece “Gnossienne No. 1” by Erik Satie. Though not a direct sample, the influence is undeniable.
- “The Storm” Cypher Connection: Before the release of “Walk on Water,” Eminem performed a politically charged freestyle called “The Storm” at the BET Hip Hop Awards. Some believe that “Walk on Water” served as a spiritual successor, exploring his anxieties about living up to his newfound political voice.
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The official video for Eminem’s “Walk On Water” featuring Beyoncé. Available now on the album Revival: http://shady.sr/Revival
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Music video by Eminem performing Walk On Water. (C) 2017 Aftermath Records
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