Hit ' Em Up
D12
A Fiery Retaliation: D12's 'Hit 'Em Up'
D12's 'Hit 'Em Up' is a scathing diss track aimed primarily at Everlast, also known as Whitey Ford. The song is a direct response to Everlast's previous insults towards Eminem and his family. The track opens with a provocative and offensive line, setting the tone for the aggressive and confrontational lyrics that follow. The beat changes to 2Pac's 'Hit 'Em Up,' a classic diss track, which adds a layer of homage and intensity to the song. The repeated chant 'Kill Whitey!' underscores the hostile and combative nature of the track.
Eminem and his D12 crew take turns delivering verses filled with personal attacks and threats. Eminem criticizes Everlast's authenticity, questioning his claims of being a tough, gun-toting individual. He also mocks Everlast's transition from hip-hop to country music, suggesting it was a desperate move due to his declining relevance in the rap scene. The lyrics are filled with homophobic slurs and violent imagery, reflecting the raw and unfiltered emotions of the artists. Eminem's verse is particularly venomous, as he recalls a personal encounter with Everlast and ridicules his musical career and personal life.
The song also features contributions from other D12 members, including Kon Artis, Kuniva, Proof, and Swifty. Each member adds their own flavor to the diss, further amplifying the collective disdain for Everlast. The track is not just a personal attack but also a statement of dominance in the rap industry. By referencing 2Pac's 'Hit 'Em Up,' D12 aligns themselves with one of the most iconic diss tracks in hip-hop history, asserting their place in the genre's legacy. The song ends abruptly with Eminem declaring he's done, but not before making it clear that any further insults towards his family will be met with even more severe retaliation.