A year after his release of  “The Marshall Mathers LP 2,” Eminem will release his new album, “Shady XV,” on Nov. 24. The album commemorates the 15-year release of his debut, “The Slim Shady LP,” and will feature two discs. One will consist of Shady Records’ greatest hits, and the other will highlight new material from the label’s artists, including D12 and Slaughterhouse.

Eminem released the first single of the new album, “Guts Over Fear,” which features Australian singer Sia, on Aug. 24. Although the song deviates from Eminem’s traditional rapid flow, its emotion-laden lyrics have been the biggest surprise to fans. The naturally critical rapper laments the repetitiveness of his songs and regrets the pain he has brought to others with his rhymes. That said, it is no surprise Eminem is evaluating his personal identity,  comparing himself to a “modern-day Genghis Khan” because of widespread censure over his violent lyrics, depicting an alternative transition in his career.

Based on “Guts Over Fear,” the new album is expected to represent a more realistic portrayal of Eminem. According to the song’s bridge, “it’s too late to start over.” Eminem has reached a point in his career where he is trying to distinguish himself from his greatest hits. Despite the song featuring Sia being released in advance, not much else is known about the new album. Its cover art features two chainsaws crossing over a red striped hockey mask, reminiscent of the horror movie “Friday the 13th”. To many fans, the menacing cover is more indicative of Eminem’s musical style. 

Many reviewers praised Eminem’s most recent album, “The Marshall Mathers LP 2,” for its lyricism and witty wordplay; however, the album still possessed a hateful tone.  Listeners will notice, above all, that Eminem’s character has certainly changed through his lyrics. After years of experiencing much criticism for his violent and discriminatory lyrics, Eminem seems to have become immune to so-called “haters”. Nevertheless, Eminem continues to produce many successful albums.