Redman and Method Man Recognize Eminem’s Freestyle Skills and Slaughterhouse’s Influence on Hip-Hop
Hip-hop icons Method Man, Redman, and Raekwon continue to prove why they’re revered in the rap world.
The legendary emcees recently appeared at Red Bull’s Los Angeles studio as part of the "Red Bull Spiral Freestyle" series, delivering a session that showcased their lyrical prowess.
Before stepping up to the mic, the trio sat down with "Billboard" to dive into the art of freestyle rap.
During the interview, they shared their admiration for rap legends and reflected on the craft that has shaped their careers.
Redman took a moment to praise Eminem for his ability to combine technical skill with meaningful content. Referring to Eminem’s BET Hip-Hop Awards freestyle, Redman said:
“Em always bodyin’ sh-t, What he was talking about [during a BET Hip-Hop Awards freestyle], the purpose he was talking about when he was freestyling is what I liked. He could have blacked out and just went HAM, but he talked about purpose and things that was going on, so [I] highly respect it.”
Method Man echoed Redman’s sentiments, highlighting the legendary Slaughterhouse and Eminem cypher. He said, acknowledging the collective’s impact on hip-hop and their unmatched lyrical skill.
“I really liked the Slaughterhouse/Eminem cypher. That sh-t was dope. They was killing it. I also liked a battle rapper cipher that they did on their own. Everybody caught a body on that."
Redman and Method Man Applaud Eminem's Influence on Freestyle Culture:
Redman also shared a memorable experience of working directly with Eminem on the track "Off the Wall." He recalled writing and recording the song together in Detroit.
“Like me and Eminem, when we wrote the record for “Off the Wall,” we wrote the song right there in the studio. I flew to Detroit. We wrote this song right there in the studio, and we laid it, and we didn’t go back. I didn’t hear his vocals — and I was like, “Damn, I should have tightened this. I should have said this. I need to go back.” No, we was very happy with what we wrote. I never in my life have changed my verse because of another man.”
Redman further emphasized that freestyle rap is more than just lyrical ability.
“I have never heard anyone in the world that has ever made me want to change my verse. I know that I’m coming with something different and I’m coming to body sh-t”
He said, referencing Kendrick Lamar’s standout BET freestyle. Redman even praised a subtle moment in Kendrick’s performance: a perfectly timed high-five with ScHoolboy Q.
“I like Kendrick Lamar’s freestyle on BET. Him and TDE, There’s so many elements to a freestyle. It’s not just about bars. It’s the movement; it’s the body language. My favorite part of Kendrick’s freestyle was when he high-fived ScHoolboy Q. See, I pay attention to little things like that. It was the perfect high-five! It was clean and you heard it! I know when or if he sees this, he’ll be like, “Wow, that guy is detailed. He knows what he talking about.” Because I know that hand slap was practiced and perfected.”
Method Man, Redman, and Raekwon’s reflections reaffirm their legendary status.
By celebrating the culture and championing rising and established stars, these veterans continue to inspire and shape hip-hop’s future.